Skin Illustrator Activator
20,57 € Tax incl.
The Skin Illustrator Activator is the official activator formulated specifically for Skin Illustrator palettes. It combines ethanol and isopropanol in a low-odour blend that activates alcohol-based pigments quickly and cleanly, leaving the makeup semi-permanently set after the solvent evaporates almost instantly.
Technical specifications
| Property | Detail |
|---|---|
| Composition | Ethanol + Isopropanol (isopropyl alcohol) |
| Application format | Spray |
| Compatible with | Skin Illustrator palettes |
| Fragrance | Mild (less aggressive odour than standard pharmacy alcohol) |
| Result | Semi-permanent set |
What it is used for
The Skin Illustrator Activator is designed to activate the alcohol-based pigments in Skin Illustrator palettes, enabling correct application on skin, prosthetics and encapsulators. It is the reference solvent in special effects makeup and professional character makeup thanks to its rapid evaporation and long-lasting set.
- Activation of alcohol-based makeup from Skin Illustrator palettes
- Character makeup for theatre, film and television
- Colour application on encapsulated silicone prosthetics
- Special effects makeup (SFX) on natural skin
- Reactivation of already dried layers to blend or feather them
- Pigment thinning for transparencies and glazing effects
How to use it
- Make sure the surface (skin or encapsulated prosthetic) is clean and free of oils.
- Spray a small amount of Skin Illustrator Activator directly onto the palette or onto the brush/sponge you are going to use.
- Pick up the moistened pigment with the brush or sponge and apply it to the desired area.
- Work quickly: the activator evaporates in seconds and the colour will set almost immediately.
- To feather edges or blend colours, spray a small amount again onto the already applied area while it is still wet.
- Allow to dry completely before applying additional layers or sealers.
Tips and tricks
Spray distance and amount
Spray from about 15–20 cm away so the activator arrives as a fine mist. Too much product on the palette can over-dilute the pigment and reduce colour intensity. It is better to build up several thin layers than to apply a single saturated coat.
Alternatives if needed
If you do not have the Skin Illustrator Activator to hand, you can use high-strength isopropyl alcohol (96° or higher) as a temporary substitute. Bear in mind that pharmacy alcohol may have a stronger fragrance and slight differences in evaporation speed. The Activator is formulated to minimise these drawbacks during long shoots and extended sessions.
Use on silicone prosthetics
When working on platinum silicone prosthetics, make sure the edges are correctly encapsulated before applying the alcohol-based makeup. Without an encapsulator, the pigment may not adhere evenly. If you need a longer working time, consider using the Skin Illustrator Slow Activator, which slows evaporation and makes it easier to work on large areas or with airbrushing techniques.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use pharmacy alcohol instead of the specific activator?
Yes, high-strength isopropyl alcohol (96° or higher) works as a temporary substitute for activating Skin Illustrator palettes. However, the Skin Illustrator Activator is formulated with a milder fragrance and an optimised blend of ethanol and isopropanol that is less aggressive during long working sessions.
How long does the activator take to evaporate after application?
Evaporation is practically immediate: under normal temperature conditions (20–25 °C), the solvent evaporates within a few seconds, leaving the pigment set on the surface. In very cold or humid environments the process may be slightly slower.
Does makeup activated with this product resist sweat and water?
Alcohol-based makeup set with the Skin Illustrator Activator offers semi-permanent resistance that is superior to conventional grease makeup. It withstands sweat and superficial water contact reasonably well, although for extreme conditions (continuous water exposure, heavy perspiration) it is advisable to apply an additional sealer or encapsulator.
Can it be used directly on silicone prosthetics?
To apply alcohol-based makeup on platinum silicone prosthetics the surface must first be encapsulated. Without an encapsulator, the pigment does not adhere properly to the silicone and the result will be neither even nor long-lasting.
Is an encapsulator necessary to blend the edges of a prosthetic?
Yes. The encapsulator is the prerequisite step that allows you to blend the edges of a platinum silicone prosthetic into the skin, after which you can apply alcohol-based makeup with the activator. Without an encapsulator, the makeup does not adhere correctly to the silicone.
What is the difference between this activator and the Slow Activator?
The Skin Illustrator Activator has rapid evaporation, ideal for precise brush or sponge applications where you want to set the colour in seconds. The Skin Illustrator Slow Activator delays evaporation, extending the working time: it is the preferred option for large areas, airbrushing techniques or complex blending.
Is it suitable for use on sensitive skin?
The Skin Illustrator Activator is formulated for professional makeup use on skin. However, as with any alcohol-based product, it may cause dryness or irritation on very sensitive skin or skin with active dermatitis. It is always recommended to perform a patch test on a small area before full application.
Can it be used with an airbrush?
The standard Skin Illustrator Activator is not specifically formulated for airbrush use due to its rapid evaporation, which can make this technique difficult. For airbrushing or large-area applications the Skin Illustrator Slow Activator is more suitable, as it offers a longer working time.