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Techniques: Block out eyebrows

a close-up portrait of a person with one eyebrow missing
  • Written byJoy Howley
  • Published date 19 June 2018
a close-up portrait of a person with one eyebrow missing
Still from How to block out eyebrows video. Photograph: Joy Howley.
As a hair makeup and prosthetics student, one of the first things you are taught is how to block out eyebrows. Joy demos this technique.

Mastering skills like these will allow you to help actors transform into new characters by applying different facial features.

Watch my step by step guide including tips on which industry standard products we use. I’ll also show you examples of how myself and other students have shaped new characters with make-up, hair and prosthetics once the blocking is in place.

Top tips for this technique is to make sure you stipple the different tones of concealer on- i.e. apply the product by pressing it onto the skin using a wide and thin brush to create a broken up, mottled effect.

Setting the makeup is also crucial- it’s done by applying a powder, which dries out the makeup and prevents smudging before you start to apply your new look.

Block out eyebrows

Video: Joy Howley.

Products like pros-aide glue can be found in all good theatrical supply stores on or offline, as can the dermacolour palette. Pros-aide glue is recommended because it adheres to the skin for long periods without irritation. Any full cover concealer will work; as will other brands of setting powder, like Makeup Revolution- you can even use talcum powder for this stage of the technique.

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