Special effects makeup is a different discipline from bridal or party makeup — it's about building a character or an effect from the skin up. This course at Glittershine introduces the core techniques used in creative and production-oriented SFX work, including ageing effects, injury simulation and character makeup, with enough hands-on practice that you can actually apply what you learn, not just watch it demonstrated.
Course Content
- What special effects makeup is used for in film, theatre and creative photography
- The difference between beauty makeup and character/effects makeup
- What to expect from this course and how the sessions are structured
- Core SFX tools and materials, and what each is used for
- Safe handling of products, patch-testing and skin sensitivity awareness
- Hygiene practices specific to SFX work
- Basic techniques for ageing effects such as wrinkles and uneven skin texture
- Simulating bruises, cuts and scars using layering and shading
- Building depth and realism with colour and texture
- An introduction to how prosthetic pieces are applied and blended
- Working with pre-made prosthetic appliances
- Blending edges so a piece reads naturally against the skin
- Planning a character look from concept to finished face
- Creative and fantasy-style effects using paint and texture work
- Matching makeup choices to a costume, theme or brief
- Adapting SFX looks for stage versus camera
- Working within a production timeline and brief
- Considerations for lighting and how effects read from a distance versus close-up
- Hands-on practice applying SFX techniques on models
- Instructor feedback across multiple practice sessions
- Photographing finished looks for your portfolio
By the end of the course, you should be able to plan and execute a basic SFX look independently — from ageing and injury effects through to simple character work — and have practical experience applying prosthetics and creative effects on real models.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need makeup experience before joining the SFX course?
Basic familiarity with makeup application helps, but SFX is taught as its own discipline from the ground up. Speak with our team if you're unsure whether your current experience level is a good fit.
Is this course useful for film or theatre work, or mainly for creative portfolios?
The course covers foundational techniques used in both contexts — theatrical and production-oriented makeup as well as creative character work you can use to build a personal portfolio.
Will I work with real prosthetic pieces during the course?
Yes, the course introduces basic prosthetic application and blending using pre-made appliances so you get hands-on experience beyond paint-only effects.