Liquid latex has become a mainstay with makeup artists over the world for use in film. It is used to create looks from the sublime to grotesque for film makers. More recently liquid latex has become a common aid in body painting for everyday people that like to practice the art of body painting. It is a fluid like material that can be painted directly onto the skin and when dried can be applied in different colors and multiple layers to create even outfits that can be worn in public.

I've listed below a some tips to aid in using liquid latex for bodypainting.

Always consider allergies if you are going to use liquid latex. Rubber and latex allergies are not uncommon so it is important to make sure your model doesn't have an adverse reaction to it's use. Begin by putting a small amount of the liquid latex on a small patch of skin and allowing it to dry. After it dries remove the liquid latex patch and look for redness or skin irritation before moving forward. It is common for a model to have some slight itching sensations as the skin begins to breath under the latex coating but persistant irritation or itching is a sign that the model may have an allergy to the product.

Just like paint, liquid latex will stick to almost anything. Make sure you use a drop cloth or painter's cloth in the area where you will be applying the latex. Make sure the clothes you wear are old as they will most likely end up with latex on them also.

As liquid latex begins to dry it will make the model feel cold so it's a good idea to make sure the room your using is warm and ventilated. Liquid latex has a small amount of amonia and sulfur in it so it is also a good idea to open the container and let it breath for a little while before applying it.

Dealing with body hair is also something to think about. The best method is to shave or trim the area with the body hair that will be painted. If shaving or trimming isn't an option then apply a liberal amount of skin lotion, any type pretty much will do, and allow it to saturate the skin before beginning. The use of skin lotion will also aid in removal of the latex after it dries. If the model intends to wear the liquid latex for an extended period of time the lotion won't necessarily be needed for removal because as the skin perspires it will help loosen the latex coating.

Applying liquid latex is much like applying any type of paint. A painter's brush can be used or a foam brush can be used. Apply the liquid latex in even coats over the area you intend to paint and then allow it to dry completely before applying another coat. Hair dryers can be used to aid in the drying process just be sure you don't dry out your brushes at the same time. 3 or more coats are best for full and complete coverage. Make sure also that any body parts painted with the liquid latex don't touch each other because the latex will stick to itself and when your model moves it will rip the latex coating.

Following some simple rules will ensure safe use of the liquid latex:

* Use the liquid latex in a well ventilated area * Never apply liquid latex close to the eyes * Keep out of the reach of children * Do not use if the model has hypersensitive skin or is allergis to latex,rubber or sulfur * Never apply liquid latex to any type of open wound