Doing makeup for a deer may seem like an unusual request, but it can actually be a fun creative challenge! As wild animals, deer of course don’t normally wear makeup. However, you may need to do deer makeup for a play, movie, costume party, or other event. With the right approach and supplies, you can come up with an effective deer makeup look.
When doing makeup for a deer character, you’ll want to focus on making the face look more deer-like. This means enhancing the eyes and nose, changing the color of the complexion, and adding accents like antlers or spots. To achieve a realistic look, you’ll need to use makeup specifically designed for special effects rather than regular cosmetics. Prosthetics will also help take the makeup to the next level.
While each deer makeup design can vary, there are some common techniques and supplies to keep in mind. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do basic makeup for a deer character:
Prepare the Face
Before starting the makeup, you’ll need to properly cleanse, tone, and moisturize the face. This provides a smooth base for the rest of the makeup.
Use a gentle face wash to clean off any dirt, oil, and impurities without being too harsh or drying on the skin. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat the skin dry with a clean towel.
Apply a toner evenly across the face with a cotton ball. This will help restore the skin’s pH balance and refine the texture. Look for toners free of alcohol, which can be overly drying.
Moisturize well to create a hydrated base. Use a moisturizer suited to your skin type, whether it’s oily, dry, or combination skin. Massage it gently all over the face and neck.
The cleansed, toned, and moisturized face will allow the special effects makeup to go on smoothly and last longer.
Shape the Nose
One of the most important parts of a deer makeup look is transforming the nose. Use makeup effects products to reshape the nose into a deer nose.
Start by applying a basic liquid latex appliance to build up the bridge of the nose. Brush on layers of liquid latex to the bridge and let dry completely between coats. You can also stipple on cotton balls dipped in liquid latex to create texture.
Once the latex is dry, powder it well so it won’t stick. Then use wax, putty, or silicone to build up the sides of the nostrils into deer-like flares. Blend the prosthetic nose seamlessly into the skin.
Use an oil-based modeling clay to add realistic sculpted texture to the new deer nose shape. Add highlights and shadows with acrylic paints to make it look 3D.
Finish by powdering the prosthetic pieces again so they hold makeup. The shaped nose will already start looking deer-like.
Enhance the Eyes
Deer have very large, expressive eyes. Play up the eyes with makeup to get the deer look.
Start by applying white cream shadow all over the eyelids up to the brow bone. This will make the eyes appear wider and brighter.
Use black cream shadow to rim just the top lash line, flicking up the edge at the outer corners. Skip lining the lower waterline so the eyes look open.
Use matte black liner to draw elongated winged tips that extend just past the outer corners. This helps widen the eyes.
Finish with two coats of volumizing black mascara on the top lashes only. The white shadowed lids and black lined, voluptuous lashed eyes will create a striking deer eye effect.
Add Color to Complexion
Deer typically have brownish-gray fur and darkened noses. Translate this into makeup by altering the complexion.
Start with a base that matches the wearer’s skin tone. Apply full coverage foundation evenly all over the face and neck.
Use a large fluffy powder brush to dust translucent setting powder over the foundation. This will set it in place.
Contour to add definition in deer-like areas. Use a cool toned taupe contour shade to chisel the cheekbones, temples, jawline and sides of the nose.
Warm up the complexion with bronzer just like the brown tones in fur. Brush it lightly across the forehead, cheeks and jawline.
Cut cheek contour with brushed-on blush in a muted berry pink. Concentrate color on the apple of the cheeks.
Finally, take a deep brown eye shadow or contour powder on a small tapered brush to darken the tip and sides of the nose. Blend well so it looks natural.
The contoured and colored complexion will resemble a deer’s face.
Add Antlers
No deer costume is complete without antlers! Capture the iconic deer profile by attaching antlers to complete the makeup.
For a temporary wear option, use latex prosthetic antlers that can be glued on. Measure and cut the prosthetics to fit the head properly.
Use liquid latex and cotton to build up the forehead area where antlers will sit. Apply adhesive and press down antlers firmly.
Blend edges smoothly into skin with liquid latex. Once dry, blend with makeup like brown shadow or cream products.
For a more dramatic or performance look, opt for rigid foam antler pieces that can be strapped on securely. The sculpted texture will look realistic.
Whichever option you choose, finishing off with antlers will really sell the deer makeup!
Consider Spots and Markings
Deer have all sorts of spots and markings in their fur. While not strictly necessary for a deer makeup look, adding some spots can take it to the next level.
Study photos of different deer markings. Common options include white spots all over the face and neck or tan markings on the cheeks and forehead.
Use cream makeup like grease paint in brown, black, tan, and white. Apply with fine tipped tools like a brush or toothpick.
You can also cut simple shapes like circles and lines out of makeup sponges. Then stipple on spots using cream makeup.
Blend and soften edges so that spots and markings look natural as part of fur. Less is often more when it comes to this detailing.
Spots will lend an extra touch of authenticity and individuality to the deer makeup.
Get the Right Costume
The right costume completes the deer makeup and sells the overall look. Consider these costume options:
– Brown bodysuit for a deer outfit from head to toe
– Furry deer hood with antlers attached to hide hair
– Brown or tan dress with a furry deerskin cape
– Forest green or brown leggings and long sleeve shirt
– Deer ear hair clips and/or brown mittens for hooves
Look for costumes that resemble deer fur and include earthy tones like brown, tan, and black. Layer pieces like capes, sleeves, and leggings for a woodsy vibe.
Carry a set of fake deer antlers as an optional prop. Face paint for added nose and cheek markings also helps tie everything together.
With strategic makeup and a complementary costume, you can easily transform into a majestic deer. Let your creativity run wild!
Deer Makeup Supplies
Achieving realistic deer makeup requires using products designed for costume and special effects. Here are some key supplies to have:
– Liquid latex – For shaping prosthetic nose and antlers
– Face wax or modeling putty – Building up nose form
– Adhesives – Spirit gum, liquid latex, pros-aide for applying prosthetics
– Face and body paint – Cream makeup in brown, black, white
– Powder – Translucent to set makeup and prevent sticking
– Fluffy brushes – For blending and softening prosthetic edges
– Fine brushes – Detail work like spots, nose, and eyes
– Cotton balls – Used with liquid latex for texture
– Sponges – Cut into shapes to stamp spots
– Sealer – To finish and set completed makeup look
Look for brands like Ben Nye, Mehron, and Kryolan that specialize in theater makeup. Their products are flexible and long-lasting. Shop specialty stores catering to costumes and effects for the best selection.
Tips for Applying Deer Makeup
Follow these tips when tackling deer makeup for the first time:
– Test makeup and prosthetics first on your arm to check for allergies or irritation.
– Only apply products to clean bare skin so they adhere properly.
– Powder each layer as you go to prevent sticking and let layers dry completely between applications.
– Blend edges of prosthetics seamlessly into skin using stippling and pouncing motions.
– Work in sections slowly and patiently for the most control over application.
– Seal completed makeup with setting spray or sealer to make it transfer-resistant.
– Check makeup under different lighting to make sure color and coverage reads well.
– Keep makeup supplies organized and accessible so you can easily work.
– Give yourself plenty of time to complete the full deer makeup design.
Following careful application techniques will allow you to get the most realistic end result.
Makeup Removal Tips
Use the right products and methods to take deer makeup off gently without irritating skin:
– Massage in coconut or olive oil to dissolve heavier makeup and prosthetics.
– Use remover wipes designed for waterproof makeup to tackle eye products.
– Soak a washcloth in warm water and hold over face to loosen surface makeup.
– Gently scrub with a moist washcloth using circular motions. Avoid tugging at skin.
– Follow up with a gentle face wash to get rid of all remaining residue without stripping skin.
– Moisturize immediately after cleansing to restore moisture and calm any irritation.
– Work slowly and patiently when removing makeup near eyes and around prosthetics.
– Remove special effects pieces carefully following edge lines to protect skin.
Taking off intense makeup properly will ensure skin stays happy and healthy!
Do’s and Don’ts
Keep these makeup do’s and don’ts in mind for a successful deer makeup look:
DO:
– Block out eyebrows completely with wax and makeup for a uniform canvas
– Use reference photos for inspiration on deer nose shapes and markings
– Powder prosthetics while working to prevent sticking and lift oils
– Set cream makeup with powder and seal with spray to increase longevity
– Check makeup in photos to see that color and coverage looks natural
DON’T:
– Forget to patch test for reactions before applying any new makeup product
– Overdo it on contouring and use harsh lines or obvious shades
– Apply products over stubble or 5 o’clock shadow which can look unsightly
– Rush the process – good makeup takes time and precision
– Wait until the last minute to test completed makeup look from all angles
Careful planning and paying attention to details will make sure your deer makeup is a success. Have fun unleashing your artistic talents!
Types of Deer for Inspiration
There are many different species and coat variations when it comes to deer. Tap into these various types for makeup inspiration:
| Type | Characteristics | Makeup Ideas |
|---|---|---|
| White-Tailed Deer | Tawny brown coat, white underside and tail, antlers on males | Focus on sculpting naturalistic antlers and painting dappled back |
| Mule Deer | Grayish-brown fur, large mule-like ears, black-tipped tail | Exaggerate ears with brown airbrushing, add white eye rings |
| Reindeer | Dark brown fur, lighter around eyes and neck, impressive antlers | Incorporate elaborate branching antlers, accent eyes |
| Fallow Deer | Gray or brown coats with white mottled spots, palmate antlers | Focus on painterly dappled spots throughout fur |
| Roe Deer | Reddish brown summer coat, grayish brown winter fur | Experiment with colorful markings for different seasons |
Researching deer species will provide lots of useful reference to create your own original makeup design.
Conclusion
Transforming into a majestic deer through makeup is a creative challenge but very achievable. With the right high-quality products, tools, and techniques, you can craft a beautiful realistic deer makeup look. Pay special attention to sculpting the nose, enhancing the eyes, adapting the complexion, and incorporating deer ears or antlers. Work slowly and patiently for best results. Complete your makeup with a complementary deer costume for the full woodland effect. Let your imagination run wild to bring an enchanting deer character to life!
