Halloween is a time for makeup and fancy dress enthusiasts to truly display their horrific creations. One of the most sought-after effects is the art of creating and applying fake blood. In this article, you will learn how to apply fake blood, (including layering for a thicker appearance), customising colour tones, how to remove it from skin, and finding which makeup products are best for you to make the most of your fake blood, not just for halloween, but also for stage production makeup as well.

Step by Step Guide to Apply Fake Blood

Fake blood is an essential tool to use in your makeup kit for a variety of reasons: it is graphic and will enhance the experience of both the wearer and the people witnessing the horror unfold, and can even be utilised for long-lasting use.

Whether you’re aiming for a subtle touch or a gory spectacle, knowing how to apply fake blood correctly can make all the difference. Let’s dive into how to apply fake blood for the best effects.

 

1. Gather your essentials

Make sure to have the right products on hand. For this, we highly recommend Ben Nye Stage Blood, which has been used by professional film, TV, and stage companies alike, as well as makeup amateurs.

Alternatively, if you wish to make your own, consider blending a liquid lipstick (exclusively available from our Dominic Paul range) with liquid latex, clear gloss, or eyelash adhesive, and you can achieve your own homemade concoction. Begin by pouring out a generous amount of lipstick onto a palette and gradually mix in your chosen medium until you achieve a sticky texture.

 

2. Make the right measurements

A convincing blood effect isn’t just about the colour; it’s about the texture and depth. To achieve a 3D wound effect, apply liquid latex and incorporate bits of soft, flesh-toned tissue paper at the centre. For added gruesomeness, try the Ben Nye Nose and Scar Wax, which we offer in shades of fair, light and normal brown, and can be used around the wound. 

 

3. Layer appropriately

For those who prefer a less intense wound but still desire a rich, viscous blood appearance, layering is your best approach. Mix a deep-hued blood with a touch of liquid latex or adhesive, allowing it to thicken slightly. As it reaches a gummy texture, apply it to the desired area. For dried blood effects, pigments or eyeshadows can be strategically placed. For this, you could try the Ben Nye blood capsules, which are just the product you need for drizzling, oozing effects.

 

4. A splatter of blood

A splash of blood can add a chilling touch to any Halloween outfit. To achieve this, immerse your finger in fake blood and flick it onto your skin. Alternatively, a brush or toothbrush can be dipped in blood, and by running a thumb over the bristles, you can create a splatter pattern. This technique is perfect for costumes that require a touch of gruesome detail, and is even useful if you want to know how to apply vampire makeup. 

 

5. Increase the blood tone

The colour of the blood can create different effects. Fresh blood is characterised by vibrant reds with a hint of blue. As blood ages, it adopts brown and orange undertones. For dried blood, a combination of dark red and a smidge of black is ideal. By customising the blood’s shade, you can ensure your makeup tells a compelling story, whether you are creating a fresh wound or an old scar.

If you want to create the blood look around or within your mouth such as your gums/teeth, use tooth paint to create a more realistic injury look imitating chipped or knocked out teeth.

Transform Your Theatrical Wounds with Fake Blood

Halloween and theatrical makeup isn’t just about creating a wound; it’s about making it look as real and fresh as possible. For instance, our tips on bruise kit makeup emphasises this, and sometimes God is in the detail. Here’s how to use fake blood effectively to enhance those faux gashes, punctures, and slices, ensuring they look freshly inflicted.

 

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Next up … coagulated blood gel from Mehron #mehron #fakeblood #spfx #mellevolantproductions

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1. Precision and perfection

For a wound that looks freshly inflicted, dripping fake blood is the best way to depict its gory imagery. For this, you should:

 

• Use a large eye dropper or a syringe with a broad opening to ensure accuracy when applying the blood. 
• Position the dropper at the top or midpoint of the wound and release the blood. If you’re dealing with a long gash, ensure the blood covers its entire length. 
• If you want the wound to appear as if inflicted while standing, don’t apply the blood while lying down. 
• Adjust the consistency of your homemade Halloween fake blood using cornstarch or corn syrup to thicken, or water to thin it out. Always be aware of potential allergies; discuss the ingredients with the person before applying.

 

2. Blood stained clothes

Consider using second-hand clothes for this next option, as fake blood, especially homemade varieties, can leave lasting stains. To get the best results, follow these tips:

 

• Before diving in, visualise where the blood should be. A central wound might have blood radiating outwards, while a butcher’s attire, for example, might showcase random handprints and splatters.
• Always apply blood to clothing laid out on a protective surface. 
• For a concentrated blood spot, soak a sponge in your fake blood and press it onto the desired area. If you’re aiming for drips, elevate the clothing, letting gravity do the work. 
• For handprints or weapon marks, simply smear blood-covered hands or tools on the fabric. Remember, applying fake blood can be messy, so wear protective gear.

 

3. Intense intestines

Crafting a realistic set of intestines can add a spine-chilling touch to your Halloween costume. With simple household ingredients, you can achieve a texture that eerily resembles human guts, and with a sprinkle of fake blood, you would think it was a dilemma from a slasher flick.

 

• Begin with a base: Use gelatin or cooked spaghetti for a slimy, flexible texture.
• For added realism, mix in red food colouring or your previously prepared fake blood.
• Intertwine and layer the gelatin or spaghetti strands, allowing some to clump together for a more authentic look.

 

4. Convincing Scars

Scars can tell a story of past battles, accidents, or horror tales. Creating a lifelike scar can enhance the narrative of your Halloween character.

 

• Start by mixing a tablespoon of petroleum jelly with a pinch of cocoa powder for a base.
• Add a few drops of red food colouring for a fresh scar look or a bit of blue for older scars.
• Apply thinly on the skin, and shape it using a spatula or your fingers to mimic the appearance of a real scar.

 

5. Safety first

While learning how to apply fake blood, it’s crucial to prioritise safety. Even if your fake thick blood mixture is made of cruelty-free, vegan materials (which we use in all of our makeup products) or harmless ingredients like corn syrup and food colouring, avoid areas near the eyes. The smallest amount can cause irritation, and it’s challenging to remove. 

 

How To Get Fake Blood Off Skin

Lastly, we cannot forget about how to get fake blood off skin! You may even find this section useful if you need to know how to remove spirit gum when learning about what is spirit gum. 

Follow the tips below on how to effectively remove fake blood from skin:

 

1. Makeup removal

Applying makeup remover to the stained area. Using cotton pads or makeup-removing wipes, gently wipe away the fake blood. Avoid scrubbing aggressively; this can irritate the skin and may not effectively remove the stain.

 

2. Thoroughly cleanse the area

Once the majority of the fake blood has been wiped off, cleanse the skin to get rid of any residual stain. Use a mild soap and water, and scrub gently.

 

3. What to do with stubborn stains

If any stubborn stains persist, apply a layer of petroleum jelly or baby oil to the area. Gently massage and scrub the skin. The oil will help lift and dissolve any remaining fake blood particles.

 

4. Final rinse

After ensuring all of the fake blood has been removed, wash the skin one last time to remove any oily residue. Pat dry with a soft towel.

Remember, any lingering stains will fade over time as the skin naturally regenerates and sheds old cells. 

 

The Complete Guide to Fake Blood

In conclusion, fake blood is essential to elevate your Halloween look from basic to breathtakingly realistic. By following these tips, not only will you know how to use and apply fake blood effectively, but you’ll also know how to get fake blood off skin and fabrics, too. 

 

For more interesting blood makeup advice, have a look at the 7 best horror makeup winners at the Oscars.

 

FAQs

How do I apply fake blood?

Start with clean, dry skin. If you're using store-bought fake blood, it usually comes in a squeeze bottle or tube. Dab or drizzle the blood onto the desired area using a brush, sponge, or even your fingers. For a more realistic look, consider layering the blood or mixing it with a bit of water to create different consistencies. If you're applying it to clothing, be sure to let it drip naturally for the most authentic effect.

What is the best thing to use for fake blood?

The best thing to use for fake blood depends on your needs. For film or theatrical purposes, many professionals use store-bought fake blood because of its realistic appearance and consistency. However, for DIY solutions, a popular recipe includes mixing corn syrup, red food coloring, and a tiny amount of blue or green food coloring to achieve a realistic blood color. You can also add cocoa powder or cornstarch to adjust the thickness.

What can I use for fake blood on my face?

When applying fake blood to the face, it's essential to use non-toxic ingredients since the skin on the face is sensitive and you want to avoid any potential reactions. Store-bought fake blood designed for cosmetic use is generally safe. If you're making your own, a mixture of corn syrup, red food colouring, and a touch of blue or green food coloring is safe for the face. Always do a patch test first to ensure there's no allergic reaction, and avoid getting the mixture in your eyes.

How long does fake blood stay on for?

The duration fake blood stays on the skin or clothing largely depends on the type and brand of fake blood used, as well as external factors like sweating or rubbing. Generally, fake blood can stay on the skin for several hours without significant fading. However, it can stain clothing and some surfaces. If applied to the skin, it can be washed off with soap and water, but it may require multiple washes to remove any staining completely.

Sources

Melanson, A., (2023) Horror At the Oscars: 7 Best Makeup Winners. Fangoria. [online] Available at: https://www.fangoria.com/original/horror-at-the-oscars-7-best-makeup-winners/ [accessed 12/10/2023]