Make-Up, Hair and Costume for Film and Television

Introduction to Prosthetics

Anything fitted to a person’s face or body, other than hair, is called a prosthesis. A prosthesis can be made out of gelatine, latex, plastic, rubber or foam. There are several reasons why a prosthesis may be needed:

1.   to change the shape of the face or body;

2.   for speed of application;

3.   if there is time to research and plan wounds, such as major burns, a better result is achieved by making them in advance;

4.   it may be that a particular effect is needed for scenes shot over several days, in which case several pieces can be made at the same time to facilitate continuity.

False Noses and Other Prosthetic Pieces

When a prosthesis is used to change the shape of a face, or part of a face, an accurate impression ...