Stage Makeup

A play or a movie will not be as appealing “as it is supposed to be” to audiences without the perfect set, costume design, and stage makeup. Stage makeups are used to enhance the over-all appearance of an actor/actress. They are also used to give certain facial expressions or features to a “special” character like for example, a vampire or a human being with physical deformity.

Stage makeup is LITERALLY applied in thick layers, since entertainment projects like plays and movies are made to cater to a large amount of audience and its actors are “required” to stand out even with heavy lightings. Stage makeup is made LOUD enough to capture up to hundreds of pairs of eyes and is applied in a seemingly “excessive” manner so that the facial expressions of actors are still very much visible even under bright stage lights.

Stage makeup is primarily classified into two categories: those that are oil-based and those that are water-based . Oil-based makeup is usually the type used for foundation and shading. It serves as the base before other makeup is applied to the face. Movies usually use ordinary foundations, as shooting this kind of project doesn't really cause much tiredness and perspiration to the actors. There are also oil-based foundation cremes made durable enough to last the long hours of stage plays. This makeup is resistant to perspiration.

Water-based makeup, on the other hand, is more often the choice of many stage makeup artists worldwide. It has been said that the overall look of this makeup is more realistic and therefore, more appropriate to the primary aim of a play or a movie – to mock reality.

Aside from cosmetics, other types of accessories also fall as stage makeups. False hair like wigs and/or mustache are important accessories to enhance a certain character. Applying prosthetics is also considered as a stage makeup.