We know the importance of good painting techniques, but technique is only as good as the materials we’re using. That’s why learning all we can about the products we use is a must.
One of the most popular types of makeup used in special effects makeup is a product called PAX Paint.
PAX Paint was originally developed by Dick Smith when he needed a solution for makeup that doesn’t last. He needed an opaque paint that had lasting power, so he came up with the idea of mixing a 50/50 concoction of adhesive and acrylic paint.
What is PAX Paint?
The Special FX Wiki explains PAX paint in great detail, but here are the main points you need to know.
PAX Paint Points
- PAX paint is non-toxic, which makes it completely safe to use on skin.
Surpernant PAX Paint Palette Skin Kits from FX Warehouse - Once applied it sticks to itself. You have to powder the paint after application.
- Removal isn’t very easy. Getting a remover is probably best, but you can also use soap and water or rubbing alcohol.
- PAX paint is great for masks and prosthetics. It’s flexible, it doesn’t rub off, and it doesn’t destroy latex.
- It is not good for use on silicone.
- Serves as a good base for other makeup to adhere to.
- It can be diluted with water and used with an airbrush.
DIY PAX Paint
You can mix your own PAX paint colors, and this is what most makeup effects artists do. Here’s how:
- In a bowl, add your chosen color of acrylic paint. You can make any color you want. The brand of acrylic paint used in PAX Paint is Liquitex.
- Add an equal amount of pro-adhesive to the acrylic paint.
- If using an airbrush, thin out the paint with water.
- Store any paint you don’t use in an airtight container, and you can reuse it forever.
Ready Made PAX Paint
PAX Paint is often sold in sets of colors with a specific purpose, like flesh tones or characters.
Learn More
These are the sites that helped me out with this post. Visit them to learn more:
Deviant Art PAX Paint tutorial
*Dick Smith image courtesy of Innovative MUFX Products.
10 Responses
where do I buy the pro-adhesive?
Hi, Havi. You can pretty much find all the adhesives you can think of on Amazon. That’s where I get mine. Or, you can try FXWarehouse.com. Right now, FX Warehouse is price matching the same products sold on Amazon.
I mixed and store my pax paint solution in plastic squeeze bottles that I bought at an art supply store. Squeeze out what you need then replace cap and store the rest.
Ooooh, great tip, Buddy! Thanks for sharing!
Really probably an old question, but new to me. Can this be used to cover eyebrows for a heavily browed gentleman in a play we are doing. He’s going to be an older funny female character, he is playing his mother then himself later. So can this in premade fleshy shades cover groomed dark brows, and how do you remove it without ruining his brows? Elmers glue didn’t work well and popped up after few changes of costume. It’s ok for tiny brows, but not beefy. So any advice I would deeply appreciate and try. I’m experienced in theatre makeup and educated in techniques but this is just not as easy as hiding over with latex pieces. I need it really covered for proofs, etc without using computer touch ups on the promotional goods, then the audience doesn’t see what’s advertised because he’s Big Brows Bernie lol. Thanks for your help and advice. I see I can order here as well. It thins with water, etc. Just need thoughts from your experiences.
Cheers
Hi, Darrell. The best way I’ve found to cover eyebrows (though I have yet to experience anyone with big brows) is by using nose putty. Have you tried the toilet paper and latex trick? I’ve tried that as well and it works well for quick, long lasting coverage, and it peels right off if done correctly. No lost hairs! That and some really pigmented cream foundation (my advice: splurge on your foundation) should give you exactly what you need. Here’s a link to my absolute favorite brow coverage tutorial. Hope this helps! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vb3D-afzKEc
Hello,this is going to be my first time airbrushing pax paint,I’m just kind of nervous, because I don’t know exactly how to clean it out of the airbrush once done
A good cleaning kit and some alcohol should do the trick. If you don’t let the paint dry in the machine you should be good to go. 🙂