Sunday, January 26, 2014

Tips For Applying Clown Makeup

By Judy Sullivan


A large part of creating a unique and entertaining character is finding just the right look. Wardrobe has a lot to do with a memorable appearance, but the face is what truly makes the identity. While all of the many online tutorial videos and websites that explain how to apply clown makeup vary in details and technique, they all share a few basic steps that are key to building a solid persona.

Before beginning the process, one should always pull their hair back away from the face using a headband and perhaps a bit of styling gel. This makes sure that loose strands will not interfere with the color application and also keeps the hair more secure beneath the skullcap or wig. It is also important that one's face and neck be clean and dry so that the cosmetics can adhere properly.

The process begins by applying a coat of clown white, which comes in varied shades, over the entire face and neck area even if the character's main coloring is flesh. The biggest challenge is learning to apply just the right amount because if it goes on too thin, skin will show through, but if it is too heavy it will start to flake off. The thickness should be enough to completely cover but not so much it masks the features.

When this base layer has been applied, the shading colors may be added on, going from light to dark. This is for those who wish to have shadows and highlights to create contours and texture such as under the cheeks or in the eye area. The cosmetics can be blended using eyeshadow brushes, cotton swabs, sponges and fingertips in order to get the right look.

Once this is done, dust a finishing product such as talc or baby powder over the whole area using a puff pad or sock, but be sure to avoid anything containing cornstarch because it may cause yellowing in the cosmetics. Remove all the loose excess and mist the work surface with water, softly dabbing it dry afterwards. This sets the paint and minimizes smearing or color runs.

Working from the top of the head down to the neck to avoid smearing, begin creating the character's signature look. Apply the new colors directly over the base coat using sponges, swabs, fingers, pencils or whatever utensils are most comfortable to the individual. One trick of the trade is to leave the upper lip area the base color so that the space between the nose and painted mouth is clearly defined.

Once more follow the dusting and misting process to set this new layer of color. Fine brushes and lip or eye pencils are great for adding details, accents and outlines to the newly created features. Finally, using a special adhesive made of liquid latex, apply any facial accessories such as eyelashes, sequins and the nose.

Getting the perfect look requires a lot of practice and generally a great deal of trial and error. Applying clown makeup is personalized technique that is unique to each individual character. Through the use of painted facial expressions and a stylized wardrobe, a recognizable persona emerges that can entertain and enthrall their target audience.




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