Encapsulating a silicone prosthetic involves coating the silicone with thin layers of material such as liquid plastic.
It provides a range of benefits such as providing a thin, skin-like surface to silicone prosthetics, allowing for seamless blending with the wearer's skin and facilitating easier application of makeup. Encapsulation also helps in creating edges that can be dissolved for a more natural appearance.
Encapsulation is an important step when creating silicone prosthetics, let's take a look at some of the reasons why.
1. Creates Seamless Edges
Encapsulation provides ultra-thin edges that can be blended into the skin for a realistic, natural transition. Without encapsulation, the prosthetic may have thick, visible borders that make it look artificial.
2. Allows for Easy Blending and Dissolving
Encapsulated prosthetics can be dissolved at the edges using acetone (for acetone-based encapsulators) or alcohol (for alcohol-based ones). This helps makeup artists seamlessly integrate the prosthetic with the actor's or patient’s skin.
3. Improves Paintability & Makeup Application
The encapsulated layer creates a surface that absorbs and holds paints, airbrush inks, or alcohol-activated makeup better than raw silicone, which is naturally non-porous and resistant to paint.
4. Controls Texture & Skin Flexibility
Encapsulation allows you to control the softness and flexibility of the outer skin layer. A thinner encapsulation creates a delicate, skin-like texture, while a thicker encapsulation makes the prosthetic more durable.
5. Enhances Durability & Comfort
A properly encapsulated prosthetic is more resistant to tearing, holds its shape better, and feels more comfortable against the skin, making it more suitable for extended wear.
6. Enables Single-Use or Reusable Options
Encapsulated prosthetics (thin edges) → Usually single-use (used in SFX makeup, film, theater).
Non-encapsulated silicone pieces (thicker, reusable) → Often used for medical prosthetics like facial prostheses or limb covers.
If you need to know how to encapsulate then check out our guide on how to make silicone moulds which contains a wealth of useful information on the entire silicone mould making process.
We can help you choose the right product for your encapsulation project, just send us an email at info@mouldlife.co.uk or call 01638 750679 to speak to our technical advisors.
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