Skin Imitator -Silicone adhesive for make-up effects-

Skin Imitator is an adhesive platinum silicone formulated by SculptGel to create makeup effects directly on skin: open wounds, scars, burns, lacerated skin and all kinds of prosthetic effects in direct contact. The 200 ml kit includes two bases (clear and flesh), a common catalyst and a thinner to adjust fluidity, with a cure time of just 5-7 minutes on skin.

Technical specifications

What it is used for

Skin Imitator is designed for makeup artists, special effects artists and professionals in the film and theatre industry who need to create realistic makeup effects applied directly onto the skin of an actor or model, with minimal working time and a very natural result. The flesh base is matched to Key-Pigment Medium Flesh to blend seamlessly with existing silicone prosthetics.

• Open wounds and realistic-looking lacerations
• Scars, keloids and aged skin
• Burn and blister effects
• Drips and viscous fluids using the included thinner
• Blending prosthetic edges directly onto skin
• Torn or peeled skin effects for film, theatre and photography
• Makeup effects for character competitions and events

How to use it

1. Clean and thoroughly dry the area of skin where you will apply the effect. Any residue of oil, cream or sweat can inhibit adhesion.
2. Decide which base to use: the clear one for very thin skin effects or overlays, and the flesh one for higher-volume effects that need to blend with the natural skin tone.
3. Mix the chosen base with the catalyst in the ratio indicated by SculptGel. Stir well until a homogeneous mixture is obtained.
4. If you need a drip effect or a more liquid texture, add the thinner included in the kit until the desired consistency is reached.
5. Apply the mixture to the skin with a spatula, brush or directly with your finger depending on the effect you are after. Model quickly: you have between 1 and 3 minutes of working time before curing begins.
6. Allow to cure for 5-7 minutes. Once cured, the silicone remains adhered to the skin in a flexible, movement-resistant way.
7. Paint the effect with paints compatible with platinum silicone or with Collodion to accentuate areas of tension or scarring.
8. To remove it, peel gently from the edges. No aggressive solvents are required.

Usage tips

Make the most of both bases for greater versatility

The clear base is ideal for thin layers that simulate taut skin or for creating translucent blister effects. The flesh base, calibrated to match Key-Pigment Medium Flesh, reduces subsequent makeup time and makes the transition between the prosthetic and real skin easier. You can mix both bases together to obtain intermediate tones or glazes.

Work at a stable ambient temperature

The 5-7 minute cure time is calculated at around 20-25 °C. In heat (film set with studio lights, a hot day, very warm skin), curing accelerates and working time decreases dramatically. If you need more manipulation time, work in a cool environment or apply the mixture onto the spatula before transferring it to the skin. In cold conditions the process slows down, which can be useful for complex effects.

Integration with silicone prosthetics

If you are integrating Skin Imitator with prosthetics made from PlatSil Gel-00 or other platinum silicones, make sure the prosthetic is fully cured before contact. To blend the edges of encapsulated prosthetics onto skin, consider using an encapsulant such as Key-Cap Plastic before applying Skin Imitator, which will improve the adhesion of the final makeup. Remember that Skin Imitator is NOT compatible with tin silicone moulds or surfaces such as EASYL 3520 or Silastic 3481, as tin inhibits the cure of platinum.

Frequently asked questions