The Grunge Liquids and Concentrate
66,55 € Tax incl.
The Grunge Liquids and Concentrate is a line of alcohol-based liquid makeup formulated specifically to recreate dirt, grime and ageing effects on skin, silicone and latex. With a colour palette developed alongside industry professionals and refined on real productions, it offers coverage, durability and naturalism that are hard to match. Its airbrush compatibility makes it an essential tool for the special effects makeup artist.
Technical specifications
| Format | 60 ml per container |
|---|---|
| Base | isopropyl alcohol |
| Compatible surfaces | Skin, silicone, latex |
| Airbrush application | Yes |
| Range | Dirt, grime and grunge effect colours |
| Activation | Alcohol base (no separate activator required in liquid format) |
What it is used for
The Grunge Liquids and Concentrate is designed for any job where you need to convincingly and durably simulate a dirty, worn or battered look. It is the go-to tool on film sets, theatrical productions and professional character makeup events.
- Simulating dirt and grime on faces, hands and body
- Ageing and weathering characters in film and television productions
- Character makeup for survivors, soldiers, workers and action characters
- Grunge effects on silicone and latex prosthetics
- Airbrush work for gradients and dirt glazes
- Combining with other Skin Illustrator palettes for complex colour transitions
- Fantasy, horror and science fiction productions requiring deteriorated characters
How to use it
- Make sure the surface (skin, silicone or latex) is clean, dry and free of oils or cream residue.
- Shake the container before use to homogenise the pigment suspended in the alcohol base.
- For direct application, use a sponge, brush or suitable applicator for the desired effect: fine brush for details, sponge for larger areas.
- For airbrush application, adjust pressure and distance according to the intensity of the effect. Start with thin layers and build up gradually.
- Allow brief drying time between layers; the alcohol base evaporates quickly and the colour sets.
- Combine different shades from the Grunge range to create depth and realism in the dirty areas.
- If you need shiny or wet-looking areas, you can add a glaze of Skin Illustrator Glazing Gels over the dry makeup.
- To set and mattify the final result, apply HD Matting Spray Clear or HD Matting Spray Shinto depending on the finish you are looking for.
- To remove the makeup, use a remover specifically designed for alcohol-based makeups.
Tips and tricks
Colour and layer management
The key to a convincing dirt effect lies in layering. Do not try to achieve the result with a single application: start with darker tones in the deepest areas (folds, creases, edges of the nose) and add lighter, earthier tones in the exposed areas. The Concentrate version allows you to intensify the tone in specific spots without disturbing the base work.
Airbrush compatibility
The Grunge Liquids works directly in an airbrush without prior thinning, although if you find the liquid too concentrated for the nozzle type you are using, you can slightly thin it with 99% isopropyl alcohol. Never use 70% alcohol, water, acetone or similar solvents, as these will alter the formula and the result will not be as expected.
Integration with other Skin Illustrator palettes
The Grunge range is designed to integrate seamlessly with the rest of the Skin Illustrator system. You can combine Grunge liquids with base tones from the Flesh Tone Palette, the Complexion Palette or the Dark Fleshtone Palette to build complete character makeups where grime settles over a deeply worked skin tone.
Frequently asked questions
Can this makeup be used directly on skin without prior preparation?
Yes, but for the best result the skin must be clean and free of greasy creams, oils or moisturisers. Alcohol bases adhere better to dry, lipid-free surfaces. If the actor has very dry skin, you can apply an alcohol-compatible sealant base before working with The Grunge Liquids.
How long does the makeup last without touch-ups during filming?
Alcohol bases offer notable resistance to sweat and light handling. Under intense filming conditions, it is recommended to set with a mattifying spray such as HD Matting Spray Clear to prolong wear and control shine. A spot touch-up with the same liquid is quick and does not affect the previous work.
Can it be used on platinum silicone prosthetics?
Yes. The Grunge Liquids is formulated to adhere correctly to silicone and latex, two of the most common substrates in special effects prosthetics. The alcohol base does not degrade platinum silicone or cured latex. For a seamless integration between the prosthetic and the actor's skin, work the colours continuously across both surfaces.
What solvent should be used to remove this makeup?
Always use a remover specifically designed for alcohol-based makeup. Never use water alone, as it does not properly dissolve the alcohol base. 99% isopropyl alcohol can help soften the product to facilitate removal, but ideally use a professional makeup remover formulated for this type of base.
What is the difference between the Liquid and Concentrate formats?
The Liquid format is ready to use directly or in an airbrush, with a pigment concentration designed for fluid applications and controlled layering. The Concentrate has a higher pigment density, ideal for intensifying specific areas, for brush use, or for those who prefer to adjust the intensity themselves by thinning with 99% isopropyl alcohol.
Can it be mixed with other colours in the same range?
Yes. All colours in The Grunge Liquids and Concentrate are miscible with each other as they share the same base. They are also compatible with the rest of the Skin Illustrator liquid system, allowing you to create custom blends or smooth colour transitions directly on the palette or on the surface.
Is it safe for sensitive skin?
Like any alcohol-based makeup, it may be irritating on very sensitive skin or where active dermatitis is present. A patch test is recommended before extensive application. In case of irritation, remove immediately with a gentle remover. Consult the product safety data sheet for detailed information on components.
Does it work well with a standard double-action airbrush?
Yes, this is one of its strengths. The Grunge Liquids is formulated with a viscosity suited to double-action airbrushes with 0.3 to 0.5 mm nozzles. If you use finer nozzles, you can slightly thin with 99% isopropyl alcohol to improve flow without losing colour durability.