Gelafix Skin is a heat-activated material specifically formulated for simulating severe burn injuries in film, television and theatre. It is applied directly to the skin with a spatula, is breathable and particularly comfortable for the actor during long shooting days.
Technical specifications
| Presentation | 60 g bag |
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| Colour | Neutral |
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| Activation | Heat (bain-marie) |
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| Application | Spatula applied directly to the skin |
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| Breathability | Yes, allows the skin to breathe |
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| Removal | Gentle peeling or warm water |
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| Intended use | Special makeup effects (SFX) |
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What it is used for
Gelafix Skin is designed to recreate skin anomalies quickly and realistically, with a particular focus on simulating first, second and third degree burns. It is a go-to resource on shoots where a believable, comfortable effect that holds up for hours of filming is required.
- Simulation of severe burns and blisters in special makeup effects
- Recreation of keloid scars and necrotic tissue
- Damaged skin effects, abrasions or emergency wounds on set
- Theatre and dance applications where performer comfort is a priority
- Production of training content and medical emergency simulations
How to use it
- Place the sealed bag in a container with hot water in a bain-marie until the material melts completely.
- Open the bag and pour the contents onto a plate or clean surface.
- Allow to cool slightly and check the temperature with the back of your hand or a thermometer: it should be tolerable against the skin.
- Apply quickly to the desired area with a spatula, shaping the burn texture (raised edges, blisters, etc.) while the material is still malleable.
- Allow to dry. The material solidifies as it cools and adheres to the skin.
- Apply a light coat of Translucent Powder TL11 to remove surface shine.
- Colour with SFX makeup paints and powders to achieve the desired burn appearance (reds, ochres, charred blacks).
- Powder again with Translucent Powder TL11 to set the makeup.
- To simulate the wet look of a fresh burn, apply a layer of clear gelatine over the finished area.
- To remove the effect, gently peel from the edges or use plenty of warm water.
Tips for use
Control the temperature before applying
The main risk when working with heat-activated materials is applying them too hot. Allow the material to rest on the plate for 30 to 60 seconds after pouring, and always check the temperature before bringing it near the skin. If the material starts to solidify before you can spread it, briefly reheat it in the bain-marie.
Work in small sections for greater control
If the burn you need to recreate is large, work in sections. Gelafix Skin solidifies quickly as it cools, so it is best to apply and shape each area before moving on to the next. Use silicone or wooden spatulas to form blisters, raised edges and necrotic skin texture while the material is still malleable.
Layers and colour: the secret to realism
The neutral colour of Gelafix Skin is the perfect base to build the makeup on top. Use Polvos Fleet Street DirtWorks to add dirt, char and tonal depth to the burn. Combine reddish tones for inflamed areas, ochres and browns for damaged skin, and blacks for charred zones. Always seal with Translucent Powder TL11 between colour layers for greater durability during the shoot.
Frequently asked questions
Is this material safe to apply directly to the skin?
Yes. Gelafix Skin is specifically formulated for use on skin and is breathable, making it comfortable to wear for hours. The only point to watch is the application temperature: make sure the material is warm rather than hot before spreading it. Always check the temperature on your own wrist before applying it to someone else.
How long does the effect last once applied?
Gelafix Skin adheres well to the skin and, once dry and powdered, holds up perfectly through a full shooting day without lifting under normal conditions. Excessive sweating or repeated contact with water can reduce its durability. In intense outdoor heat it may soften slightly, as it is heat-reactive.
How is it removed without damaging the skin?
Removal is straightforward: gently peel from one edge of the effect and lift it off carefully. If there is resistance, apply plenty of warm water and the material releases without issue. No solvent or specific removal product is needed.
Can leftover material be reused?
Yes. Any unused material can be stored, placed back in the bag or in an airtight container, and reheated in the bain-marie for the next session. Avoid letting the material pick up dirt or makeup residue during storage.
What else is needed besides Gelafix Skin to create a convincing burn?
For a professional result you will need at least: Translucent Powder TL11 to kill the shine, SFX makeup paints or powders for colour, and optionally Polvos Fleet Street DirtWorks to age and dirty the effect. If you want to recreate a wet, fresh burn, add a layer of clear gelatine on top as the final step.
Can it be applied over foundation makeup or does the skin need to be clean?
For optimal adhesion, it is best to apply Gelafix Skin to clean skin or with minimal preparation. If the actor is already wearing foundation, the material can still adhere, but a prior test is advisable. Avoid areas with very greasy creams, which reduce adhesion.
Does it work equally well on any area of the body?
Gelafix Skin can be used on most body areas. It works particularly well on flat or slightly curved surfaces (arms, legs, torso, neck). On high-movement areas (joints, knuckles) it may crack sooner, although this can also be used aesthetically to simulate severely damaged skin.
How much product is needed per application?
It depends on the size of the effect. For a medium-sized burn (an area of approximately 10×10 cm) a small amount from the 60 g bag is sufficient. The bag yields several applications if you work with thin layers, which also improves the final result in detail and texture.
