Alexei Volkov
Bald caps are used in theatre for a variety of purposes, including making someone look bald, as a basis for other makeup SFX effects, and for headpieces. Bald caps can be made using liquid latex, a polystyrene, glass, or fibreglass head, cheap bath sponges, DVD marker pens, PVA glue, and talcum powder. The process begins by marking the head with DVD pens to guide the application of the bald cap, and then coating a sponge with liquid latex and dabbing it onto the head. Multiple layers of latex may be added depending on the purpose of the bald cap, and it should be allowed to dry thoroughly. Before removing the cap, talcum powder should be applied to prevent the latex from sticking.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of layers | 3-4 layers, with 5-6 additional layers near the edges |
| Tools | Acetone, airbrush, hairdryer, latex or vinyl gloves, permanent marker, liquid latex, polystyrene/glass/fibreglass head, cosmetic sponge, talcum powder, PVA glue |
| Time | Couple of hours, but a couple of days to cure completely |
| Purpose | Used in theatrical situations, as a basis for other makeup SFX effects, for headpieces, or to cover up hair |
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What You'll Learn
Prepare the head with wax and powder
To prepare the head with wax and powder before applying a plastic bald cap, follow these steps:
Firstly, it is important to smooth down the hair on the head and reduce its volume. If the person has short hair, use gel to get it into a manageable shape. For longer hair, consider using a hair tie or hair clips to secure the hair close to the head.
Next, you may want to use wax on the head before applying the bald cap. Waxing the head helps to secure any loose hairs and creates a smoother surface for the bald cap to adhere to. It is recommended to use several layers of wax, with three to four layers suggested as a starting point.
After waxing, you can begin applying the bald cap. Pull the bald cap down over the head, ensuring that it is tight and there are no wrinkles or air bubbles. Once the bald cap is in the correct position, use silicon adhesive to glue it in place.
Before removing the excess plastic from the edges of the bald cap, you may want to use powder to help blend the edges into the surrounding skin. Use a cosmetic solvent such as acetone to ease away the excess plastic, being careful not to tear the bald cap.
Finally, powder the entire bald cap before peeling it off. This will help to prevent the latex from sticking to itself and make it easier to remove. You can use talcum powder or baby powder for this step, brushing it onto the bald cap and forcing some powder under the edges to help with removal.
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Mark the head with a permanent marker
Marking the head with a permanent marker is a crucial step in creating a well-fitting bald cap. Here are some detailed instructions to guide you through this process:
First, decide on the type of bald cap you want. If you're creating an all-over cap, you will need to cut back the hair accordingly. Alternatively, you may choose to leave out the ears and focus solely on the top of the head. This decision will impact how you mark the head.
Using a permanent marker, such as a DVD marker pen, start by drawing the edge of the bald cap directly onto the head. This initial line will represent the outermost boundary of the cap. It's important to note that if you're creating an all-over cap, this line will cover the entire area of the head. For a cap that leaves out the ears, you can adjust the placement of this initial line accordingly.
Next, you will create a series of additional lines to ensure a precise fit for the bald cap. Draw a second line approximately 1/4" (six millimetres) inside the first line. This line should be slightly narrower and sit just within the boundaries of the first. Repeat this process, drawing a third line 1/4" inside the second, and a fourth line 1/4" inside the third. These lines will serve as guides for applying the liquid latex and creating a realistic skin texture.
It's important to be cautious when marking the head, especially if you are using a styrene or polystyrene head. The marker lines should be clear and precise, but avoid pressing too hard with the marker to prevent damaging the surface of the head.
By following these steps and marking the head with a permanent marker, you will create an accurate outline for your bald cap. This outline will guide the application of the liquid latex and ensure a seamless blend between the bald cap and the surrounding skin.
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Apply multiple layers of liquid latex
Applying multiple layers of liquid latex is a crucial step in creating a seamless and realistic bald effect. Here is a detailed guide to help you achieve a convincing bald look with liquid latex:
Firstly, prepare your workspace by gathering all the necessary materials, including liquid latex, a polystyrene, glass, or fibreglass head (mannequin), bath sponges, a container for the liquid latex, and talcum powder or baby powder. Ensure your workspace is well-lit and that you are wearing old clothing, as the process can be messy.
Next, cut your bath sponges into 2-inch (50mm) cubes with scissors. Take one of the sponge cubes and coat one side with liquid latex. Start by gently dabbing the latex onto the head, creating a thin layer. This process is called stippling, and it helps to achieve an even and smooth application. Allow this first layer to dry thoroughly. You can speed up the drying process by using a hairdryer on a low or warm setting.
Once the first layer is completely dry, begin applying the second layer. Dip your sponge into the liquid latex and continue stippling, starting from the hairline and working your way towards the back of the head. Make sure to maintain thin, even layers to ensure quick drying and a seamless finish. Repeat this process for the third and subsequent layers, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next.
The number of layers you need will depend on the intended use of the bald cap. For example, if you are using the bald cap as a thin underlayer for makeup or to achieve a bald look, two to three additional layers are usually sufficient. However, if you require the cap for sealing hair for life casting, aim for a total of six layers to prevent tearing. On the other hand, if the cap will serve as the base for a prosthetic headpiece, add at least six or more layers for added strength.
Remember, latex tends to stick to itself, so it's essential to powder each layer with talcum powder or baby powder before applying the next layer. This will ensure that the layers do not stick together permanently and will make it easier to remove the bald cap later.
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Use acetone to thin the plastic for an airbrush
To apply a plastic bald cap, you will need to thin the plastic for airbrushing. This can be done using acetone. Firstly, source your acetone. You can purchase acetone from the same place you bought your plastic bald cap products, or you can use 100% acetone nail polish remover. Wear protective gloves, as acetone can be harsh on your skin.
Next, mix the acetone with the cap plastic. The ratio is typically 2 parts acetone to 1 part cap plastic. Mix this together until you have a fluid consistency that will be thin enough to pass through your airbrush. You can add colour to the mixture with alcohol-based makeup or appliance foundation.
Now, you can begin to apply the plastic to your mould. Spray several thin layers onto your mould, allowing a few minutes of drying time between each coat. You can speed up the drying process by using a hairdryer. Once all the layers are dry, you can powder the whole thing before peeling it off the mould.
Finally, you can blend the edges of your bald cap with more acetone, creating a seamless finish.
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Seal with talcum powder
To seal a plastic bald cap with talcum powder, first, ensure that the bald cap is secure on the head. You can use spirit gum adhesive and liquid latex adhesive to stick the bald cap to the skin. Mark the edges of the bald cap onto the head with a permanent marker, so you know where to apply the powder.
Once the bald cap is secure, take some talcum powder and a cosmetic brush or sponge. Dip the brush or sponge into the talcum powder, and gently tap or dab the brush to remove any excess powder—you don't want to apply too much powder to the bald cap.
Starting at the hairline, gently sweep or dab the powder onto the bald cap, focusing on the edges. You want to create a clean blend between the bald cap and the skin. Be careful not to rub or wipe the powder onto the bald cap, as this may smudge the makeup or disturb the adhesive.
Work in small sections, carefully applying the powder to the entire surface of the bald cap. Once the entire cap is powdered, you can use a clean brush to gently buff and blend the powder, ensuring there are no visible lines or edges.
The talcum powder will help to seal the bald cap, improve its durability, and reduce shine for a more realistic appearance.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need liquid latex, a polystyrene/glass/fibreglass head, cheap bath sponges, DVD marker pens, PVA glue (if using polystyrene), and talcum powder.
It depends on the intended use. For a thin underlayer or to make someone appear bald, 3-4 layers are sufficient. For life casting, add 4 more layers. For a prosthetic headpiece, a minimum of 6 layers is recommended.
The latex dries within 4-5 hours but takes a couple of days to fully cure, at which point it turns a straw colour.
A hairdryer can be used to accelerate the drying process between layers.
Acetone can be used to thin the plastic. A ratio of 1:4 is recommended for airbrushing. Always wear gloves when handling acetone.
