| Body Latex FAQ |
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| Can I use a bristle brush to apply it with? |
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We don’t recommend it. Bristle brushes will leave streaks and ridges. Liquid Latex dries very quickly on brushes and you’re likely to ruin the brushes in a hurry. |
| Can skin breath if it’s painted? |
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Yes. The skin breathes under Liquid Latex. There’s nothing toxic in it to be absorbed into the skin. It’s just like wearing a big rubber glove on the body. |
| Can you paint a penis with Liquid Latex? |
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Sure. But it’s always a good idea to do a small test patch first to make sure you’re not sensitive. |
| Do I need to do anything special for photo shoots? |
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1) Use 4 or more coats. Strobe photography and stage lights will penetrate the translucent latex and appear splotchy. 2) Apply stardust in an area away from the camera. Stardust is a very fine powder and will become airborne, causing star-like refractions in the lens. 3) Make sure the model(s) is warm and comfortable. It may take a while to get the painting done and nothing will ruin a shoot like a cold, uncomfortable, lightheaded, unhappy model. |
| Do you have to leave some skin uncovered so you won’t die? |
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No. The skin breathes under the latex. It will gradually lift off the skin as the body perspires and the skin breathes. It’s essentially the same as a body wrap. |
| Does it insulate from the cold? |
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No, it’s not thick and foamed like a wet suit. It’s thin like a rubber glove. |
| How long can you safely wear it? |
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Indefinitely. As long as you’re comfortable, you should be safe. Your skin will breath under the latex. |
| How long does it take to dry? |
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Depending on the temperature and conditions, it generally takes 5 to 10 minutes per coat to dry. Let each coat dry completely before applying the next. A hairdryer will help speed up the drying process. |
| How long will it stay on? |
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Depends on the conditions you’re wearing it in and your individual skin and body type. Generally, it will last at least several hours before lifting from the skin |
| How many coats do you have to paint on? |
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We recommend 3 or more coats to create a durable and opaque coverage. |
| How much does it take to cover a body? |
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Generally, it takes one quart (32 ounces) to cover a full body, head to toe, in the recommended 3 coats, often with a little left over. |
| How will you know if there’s an allergic reaction to Latex? |
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Always do a small test patch on the skin before use. If the skin becomes red, swollen and/or irritated then gently remove the latex, wash with soap and water and discontinue use. |
| Is it hot to wear? |
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No, it’s like a rubber glove. Whatever you would feel on the outside you’ll feel on the inside. If anything, it may actually be a little cold with a slight build up of perspiration underneath. |
| Is it safe on the face and/or pubic area? |
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Yes, generally, as long as you do a test patch and have no negative reactions. Be sure to keep the latex out of eyes, nose, ears and all internal body cavities. |
| What do you put on the skin before application? |
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We suggest applying a liberal amount of any standard skin lotion, such as Lubriderm, Keri, Nivea, etc. If Liquid Latex is going to be worn for a long period of time or you anticipate perspiring a lot while wearing it, lotion may be more lightly applied or may not be necessary. But, everyone’s skin is different, so "better safe than sorry". |
| What does it feel like to wear Liquid Latex? |
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Liquid Latex will shrink about 3-4% as it dries. That will make it fit snugly. Sometimes there may be a very slight itching sensation for a few minutes as it shrinks and your skin begins to breath underneath, but it will subside quickly. Then it will feel like a rubber glove covering the body… it will feel like you’re wearing clothes, but something very tight and thin. |
| What if you’re allergic to latex? |
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Then DO NOT use Liquid Latex. Liquid Latex is primarily LATEX and should not be used by anyone with an allergy to latex! |
| What’s the best way to apply Liquid Latex? |
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Use a foam brush or foam roller for smooth, even application. Liquid Latex dries quickly on brushes, so be sure to have a good supply of fresh, clean foam brushes. An airbrush, we’ve been told, is a great application method, but you have to know which type of airbrush to use. Liquid Latex can also be applied with the hands, but won’t get smooth results. |