prosthetic differences explanation

Maor Shabbat

Hi guys i would like to know the differences in quality and use between the kind of prosthetic
Bondo (pros-aid)  /  gelatin  /  silicon
Thank you

Chris Ellerby

Each type of prosthetic has its own pros and cons.

All 3 materials are translucent, which means they can blend well with the skin, can be intrinsically pigmented with flocking, and look very natural. 

Pros Aide:

Pro:

• Extremely durable.  Great for stunts, when a performer needs to be in water, harsh environments, or long shoot days
• Super fast to apply
• Very thin edges that can be dissolved and blended with alcohol 

Con:

• Limited to fairly shallow/flat prosthetics
• Materials can be somewhat expensive
• Not as much stretch as silicone

Gelatin:

Pro:

• Very inexpensive
• Edges can be dissolved and blended with witch hazel
• Can be made thicker than pros aide appliances

Con:

• Limited shelf life
• Not as flexible as foam latex or silicone
• Sensitive to heat on set
• Can become delicate, rigid, or melt if used for a long time
• Not the best option if stunts or physical activity are required

Silicone:

Pro:

• Extremely flexible
• More durable than gelatin
• Can be made thicker than pros aide appliances
• Can be produced in a variety of formulas to add strength or add flexibility over a wide range
• Can be reused in a pinch if removed carefully

Con:

• More difficult to produce, often requiring encapsulation
• More expensive then gelatin and can be more expensive than pros aide depending on the application
• Can be a bit heavy if prosthetics are large or thick

That's just a quick list off the top of my head and based on my own experience.  If anyone else has any additions let me know and I'll modify the list.

/Chris

Maor Shabbat

Thank you thats a huge help!

David Boccabella

Great rundown.. Many thanks Chris

Kevin Kovacs

i've heard of people foaming/whipping their gelatin as a no-budget substitute for foam.

Chris Ellerby

Foamed gelatin starting getting really popular just prior to silicone taking over.  I've not heard of anyone doing it lately (I'm sure there are a few diehards out there!), but it's a very clever way to get light weight and translucency out of a piece.

/Chris