The Skin Illustrator Horishi Palette is an alcohol-activated makeup palette specialised in recreating traditional Japanese tattoos (Horimono), WWII styles and all kinds of artistic tattoos, both classic and contemporary. Its 6 colours are activated with an alcohol activator or with 99% isopropyl alcohol and deliver exceptional coverage and durability on skin, silicone and latex.
Technical specifications
| Number of colours | 6 |
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| Makeup type | Alcohol-activated |
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| Compatible surfaces | Natural skin, silicone, latex |
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| Compatible activators | Skin Illustrator Activator, Skin Illustrator Slow Activator, 99% isopropyl alcohol |
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| Removal | Telesis Super Solv or compatible alcohol-based solvent |
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| Recommended use | Special effects, film, television, theatre, artistic makeup |
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What it is used for
The Horishi Palette is designed specifically for makeup artists and special effects artists who need to recreate tattoos with maximum fidelity and durability. Its colour range is tailored to the characteristic tones of traditional Japanese tattooing and classic military styles.
- Recreating traditional Japanese tattoos (Horimono) on skin or prosthetics
- Simulating WWII and old school style tattoos
- Full body paint effects on real skin
- Makeup on platinum silicone or latex prosthetics
- Touching up existing tattoos during filming or live performances
- Modifying tattoo colour for continuity in production
- Creating tattoos from scratch for fictional characters
How to use it
- Make sure the surface (skin, silicone or latex) is clean, dry and free of grease or oils.
- Activate the desired colour from the palette with a few drops of Skin Illustrator Activator, Skin Illustrator Slow Activator or 99.9% isopropyl alcohol. Never use 70° alcohol, acetone, MEK or water.
- Load the brush with the required amount and apply to the surface with precise strokes.
- Allow to dry between layers to achieve greater colour intensity and longevity.
- Layer colours to blend tones and create depth in designs.
- Once the design is complete, allow it to dry fully before applying a setting spray or handling the area.
- To remove the makeup, use Telesis Super Solv or a suitable alcohol-based solvent.
Tips for use
Activator control
The amount of activator determines the fluidity and colour intensity. With a small amount you will get drier, more opaque strokes, ideal for defined lines. Adding a little more activator will give you glazes and soft gradients, very useful for the colour fills characteristic of Japanese tattooing.
Working on silicone and latex prosthetics
Before painting on silicone prosthetics, make sure the surface has no traces of Release agent or silicone oils. A light degreasing with 99% isopropyl alcohol improves colour adhesion. On latex, apply in thin layers and allow to dry thoroughly between them to prevent the makeup from cracking when the prosthetic is moved.
Palette care
Keep the palette closed and away from direct heat. If the colours dry out excessively over time, reactivate them with a few drops of alcohol activator over the pan and allow it to absorb before use. Avoid cross-contaminating colours by using uncleaned brushes: use a different brush or clean thoroughly between colours to preserve colour purity.
Frequently asked questions
What is used to activate these makeup palettes?
The Skin Illustrator Horishi Palette is activated with Skin Illustrator Activator, Skin Illustrator Slow Activator or 99% isopropyl alcohol. It is essential to use high-purity alcohol: never use 70° alcohol, acetone, MEK or water, as these solvents do not activate the product correctly and can ruin the result.
Is this makeup suitable for use directly on skin?
Yes. The Skin Illustrator range is formulated specifically for direct use on human skin. It is the choice of professional makeup artists in film, television and theatre. Even so, a patch test on a small area is recommended before applying to large areas.
Can it be used on silicone prosthetics?
Yes, the Horishi Palette is compatible with silicone and latex. For better adhesion on silicone, degrease the surface with isopropyl alcohol before painting and apply in thin layers allowing to dry between them.
How long does this makeup last on skin?
Skin Illustrator palettes are known for their high durability and staying power. Correctly applied and without contact with solvents or excessive perspiration, they will last through full shooting days or performances. For extra hold in extreme conditions, you can apply an alcohol-based makeup setting spray on top.
How is this type of makeup removed?
Alcohol-activated makeup such as the Horishi Palette is removed with Telesis Super Solv or any alcohol-based solvent specifically designed for professional makeup. Do not attempt to remove it with water or standard oil-based makeup removers, as these are not effective with this type of formulation.
Can I mix the colours in the palette together?
Yes. The colours in Skin Illustrator palettes are fully miscible with each other. You can mix them directly on the palette or on the skin to create custom tones, gradients or depth effects typical of Japanese tattoo style.
What is the difference between this palette and other palettes in the range?
The Horishi Palette is specifically aimed at tattoo recreation: its colours are selected for that particular purpose. Other palettes in the range, such as the Flesh Tone, the Complexion or the FX Palette, are designed for skin tone corrections, wound effects or general character makeup. The choice depends on the type of work you need to carry out.
Can it be used with an airbrush?
Skin Illustrator palettes are designed for brush application. For airbrush use, the range offers specific liquid formulations with the appropriate dilution. If you want to use them with an airbrush, check compatibility with the manufacturer before thinning, as incorrect dilution can affect the result and the durability of the makeup.
