The Skin Illustrator On Set FX Palette is the compact pocket version of the classic Skin Illustrator FX Palette, an industry standard in special effects makeup. It includes the same 10 FX colors in a mini format designed for quick touch-ups on set, with the same coverage and durability that characterize the entire range. Essential for any FX artist working on skin, silicone or latex.
Technical specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|
| Product type | Alcohol-activated makeup palette (activated ink) |
| Number of colors | 10 FX colors |
| Format | Compact pocket (On Set) |
| Compatible surfaces | Skin, silicone, latex |
| Recommended activator | isopropyl alcohol 99%, Skin Illustrator Activator or Slow Activator |
| Removal | Telesis Super Solv or compatible solvent |
| Prohibited use | 70° alcohol, MEK, acetone, water |
What it's used for
This palette is designed for special effects makeup in film, television, theatre and photography productions. Its compact format makes it ideal for carrying on any shoot and performing touch-ups without resorting to the full-size palette.
- Wounds, bruises and trauma effects on real skin
- Painting and shading of silicone and latex prosthetics
- Character design with intense or fantasy colors
- Quick touch-ups on set during recording or between takes
- Aging, dirt, burn or necrosis effects
- Fine detail lining on prosthetics already integrated on the actor
How to use it
- Prepare the surface: skin must be clean and dry; silicone or latex prosthetics must be properly adhered and free of any release agent residue.
- Activate the color by moistening the brush or sponge with isopropyl alcohol 99%, Skin Illustrator Activator or Slow Activator. Never use 70° alcohol, water, MEK or acetone.
- Load the brush with just the right amount of color and apply in thin layers. The alcohol evaporates quickly: work with agility.
- Layer coats to build intensity or mix colors directly on the palette or on the surface.
- Allow to dry completely between layers to prevent colors from unintentionally blending.
- Set if necessary with a fixing spray compatible with alcohol-activated makeup.
- For removal, apply Telesis Super Solv with a cotton pad and remove gently.
Usage tips
Control the amount of activator
The most common mistake is over-saturating the brush. Too much alcohol dilutes the pigment and reduces coverage. The brush should be damp, not dripping. If you find the color looks watery, dry the brush slightly before reloading.
Mixing and gradients on the palette
You can mix colors directly on the palette or on an auxiliary surface (glass palette, back of the hand). Alcohol-activated colors behave similarly to concentrated watercolors: they blend well with each other and with other colors from the same range, such as those in the Skin Illustrator Flesh Tone Palette or the Skin Illustrator Complexion Palette.
Painting on silicone and latex
Alcohol-activated makeup adheres well to both silicone and latex without the need for a primer, as long as the surface is free of uncured silicone, oils or release agent residue. For base skin tones on prosthetics, combine this palette with the Skin Illustrator Dark Fleshtone Palette when working with darker-skinned actors, or with the Flesh Tone Palette for lighter skin tones.
Frequently asked questions
What activates these colors?
The colors in the Skin Illustrator On Set FX Palette are activated with isopropyl alcohol 99%, with Skin Illustrator Activator or with Skin Illustrator Slow Activator. The Slow Activator gives more working time and is useful for broad blending. Never use 70° alcohol, water, MEK or acetone: they damage the product and do not correctly activate the pigment.
Can it be used on sensitive skin or near the eyes?
Skin Illustrator is formulated for professional use in character makeup. For periorbital areas or very sensitive skin, always consult the product safety data sheet and perform a patch test beforehand. Use near mucous membranes or inside the eye is not indicated.
How is alcohol-activated makeup removed?
The recommended method is to use Telesis Super Solv, applied with a cotton pad or gauze. On skin, a professional makeup remover oil can also help loosen the product. Avoid rubbing hard, especially on adhered prosthetics, to avoid damaging the edges of the piece.
Does it work the same on silicone as on latex?
Yes, the colors in this palette adhere well to both silicone and latex. The key is that the surface is clean and free of release agent, oils or uncured silicone. On very flexible silicone, apply in thin layers to prevent cracking when the prosthetic moves.
What is the difference between this palette and the full-size version?
The Skin Illustrator On Set FX Palette is a compact pocket version containing the same colors as the full-size Skin Illustrator FX Palette, but in smaller pans. The full-size version has more product per color and is better suited for long projects or intensive productions. The On Set is designed for touch-ups on shoot and easy transport.
Can colors be mixed across different palettes from the same brand?
Yes. All colors in the Skin Illustrator range are compatible with each other. You can combine the FX tones from this palette with the skin tones from the Skin Illustrator Complexion Palette or the Flesh Tone Palette to achieve more natural effects or tone down highly saturated colors.
How long does the makeup last once applied?
Durability is high once the alcohol evaporates and the pigment dries. It holds up well against light sweat and friction, although in areas of heavy movement or high perspiration it may require touch-ups. Using a compatible fixing spray increases longevity.
Is this palette suitable for fantasy character design or only for realistic effects?
The FX range includes colors designed for both realistic effects (blood, bruising, necrosis, burns) and fantasy character design with more intense and saturated colors. It is a versatile palette that covers both needs in a single pocket format.
