Saturday, 18 January 2014

How To Apply 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.

The first thing one should do is to pull the hair tightly away from the face and neck with a headband. This will keep a carefully created application from being marred by loose strands, as well as make it easier to hide one's locks beneath a wig or skullcap. Everything from the shoulders to the scalp should be cleaned and dried to allow for the best cosmetic adherence.

The first thing applied to the entire face and neck area is a product called Clown White, which should completely cover all exposed skin. It takes practice to get the thickness just right because if it is too heavy the cosmetics tend to flake, but if too thin the bare flesh will shine through. It needs to create a uniform base without being an inflexible mask.

After the entire face has been given a base of white or flesh tone, start adding the other hues beginning with the lightest and ending with the darkest. These can be used to subtly build texture and shadows, such as under the cheeks or around the eyes. Use cosmetic quality brushes, sponges cotton swabs or even one's own fingertips to spread and blend the colors until the desired look is achieved.

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.

Now the time has come to give the character their signature expression, working top to bottom to minimize the chances of smearing one's work. The details should be added right on top of the powder set base coat using utensils such as brushes, cosmetic pencils, fingers or swabs. A good tip is to avoid placing color on the upper lip whenever possible so that there is space between the mouth and nose.

Again, apply a light dusting of power and spray with the mist to set the colors. Use eye and lip pencils to outline shapes, add fine details or make accents to the features. The final step is the application of any desired accessories such as a nose, eyelashes, sequins or glitter, some of which may require using a liquid latex in order to get a good adherence.

A good deal of practice and some trial and error is usually required before one finally finds their ultimate look. Each person will develop their own technique for applying the clown makeup for their individual character. The combination of a unique face and a stylized costume is the best way to create a persona that is easy to recognize and remember.




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