Technical - wounds

‘A wound is any type of injury to the skin. Wounds can be open wounds, in which the skin is broken or torn or closed wounds. Although open wounds can bleed and run the risk of infections, closed wounds can also be dangerous depending on the extent of tissue damage. There are six major categories of wounds; each is distinctive in its appearance and the source of the injury:

Incision – an incision wound is a cut in the skin caused by a sharp object such as a knife, broken glass, scissors or surgeon’s scalpel. Incision wounds are ‘neat’ and the edges of the skin are usually smooth.

Laceration – a laceration is injury to the skin that results in the skin being cut or torn open. Lacerations can be shallow, only injuring the surface skin, or deep, causing injury to the muscles, tendons, ligaments, blood vessels or nerves. Lacerations are most commonly made by some sort of blunt trauma such as being hit with a fist or baseball bat. Unlike an incision wound, a laceration is generally jagged because the skin is torn instead of cut.

Abrasion – an abrasion is a type of wound in which the skin is scraped or rubbed off. When skin is dragged on carpet, the resulting wound, often called a carpet burn, is an abrasion. Abrasions are usually superficial wounds, meaning that only the outer layers of skin are affected. A deep abrasion, one that penetrates to the inner layers of skin, can leave a scar. Parts of the body with thin layers of skin, such as the knees and elbows, are most prone to abrasions.

Contusion – a contusion is a kind of closed wound, meaning that the skin is not broken. Contusions are caused by blunt force trauma to the skin that results in tissue damage. When the blood vessels under the skin are broken, blood pools under the skin causing a bruise.

Puncture – a puncture wound is created when a sharp object enters the skin. These wounds are usually small and do not bleed a lot. Although these wounds tend to close over quickly, they still need treatment as infection is a possibility. Puncture wounds are prone to a tetanus infection, so it is important to seek medical advice for any puncture wound. Common types of puncture wounds include stepping on a nail or bites from animals.

Avulsion – an avulsion is a partial or complete tearing away of skin and tissue. Avulsions usually occur during violent accidents, such as body-crushing accidents, explosions, and gunshots. They bleed heavily and rapidly.’

Chandler, S. (2015) Five types of wounds. Available at:
http://www.livestrong.com/article/101274-five-types-wounds/ (Accessed: 3 March 2016).

Different types of wounds

Admin (2008) Types & causes of open wounds. Available at:
http://nursingcrib.com/nursing-notes-reviewer/types-causes-of-open-wounds/ (Accessed: 3 March
2016).

How are wounds treated?

‘Minor wounds can be treated at home. First, wash and disinfect the wound to remove all dirt and debris. Use direct pressure and elevation to control bleeding and swelling. When wrapping the wound, always use a sterile dressing or bandage (very minor wounds may heal fine without a bandage). You’ll need to keep the wound clean and dry for five days. You should also make sure you get plenty of rest.

Pain typically accompanies a wound. You can take acetaminophen as directed on the package. Avoid aspirin products, since they can cause or prolong bleeding. Apply ice if you have bruising or swelling, and avoid picking at scabs. If you’re spending time outdoors in the sun, use sun protection factor (SPF) 30 sunscreen over the area until it’s completely healed.

Medical treatments:

Your doctor may use different techniques to treat your wound. After cleaning and possibly numbing the area with anesthetic, your doctor may close the wound using skin glue, sutures, or stitches. You may receive a tetanus booster shot if you have a puncture wound.

Other treatments for a wound include pain medication and penicillin. Your doctor may also prescribe penicillin or another antibiotic if there’s an infection or high risk for developing an infection. In some cases, surgery might be needed. If a body part is severed, it should be brought to the hospital for possible reattachment. Wrap the body part in moist gauze and pack it in ice.

When you leave the doctor’s office, you might have bandages and dressings. It’s important to always wash your hands and work on a clean surface when changing bandages and dressings. Disinfect and dry the wound thoroughly before dressing it again. Ensure to dispose of old dressings and bandages in plastic bags.’

Written, Roddick, J. and HigueraMedically, V. (2005) Open wound. Available at: http://www.healthline.com/health/open-wound#Complications4 (Accessed: 3 March 2016).

History:

‘From the Classical Period to the Medieval Period, the body and the soul were believed to be intimately connected, based on several theories put forth by the philosopher Plato. Wounds on the body were believed to correlate with wounds to the soul and vice versa; wounds were seen as an outward sign of an inward illness. Thus, a man who was wounded physically in a serious way was said to be hindered not only physically but spiritually as well. If the soul was wounded, that wound may also eventually become physically manifest, revealing the true state of the soul. Wounds were also seen as writing on the "tablet" of the body. Wounds acquired in war, for example, told the story of a soldier in a form which all could see and understand, and the wounds of a martyr told the story of their faith.’

Wound (2016) in Wikipedia. Available at:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wound (Accessed: 3 March 2016).

Technical lesson two:

Model name: Billy Eva Jolly
Skin type: combination
Skin tone: fair skin with pink undertones
Natural eyes/contacts: natural eyes
Allergies: none
Medication: none
Any open wounds/scars, cuts etc.: none

Required products/materials: sculpting wax (cine wax), Kryolan supra colour palette, Kryolan Pro shield barrier foam, wound filler, spatula, cleanser, Tuplast, sealer, fake pus, Kensington Gore a liquid blood, stipple sponge, Kryolan translucent powder, moisturiser, cotton buds and cheap makeup brushes (don’t use your beauty ones as they’ll get ruined).

Blood:

Artificial blood comes in different qualities and colours for different uses. Some are quite easily removed whereas others aren’t. The best ones often tend to look like dry blood once dry, while others look like red paint. Blood comes in different colour intensities therefore it’s important to consider how deep a wound is when making up the model to achieve realistic effects. 

Blood capsules – these are gelatine capsules containing blood. You must place the capsule in your mouth and break it with your teeth to bleed from your mouth.

Blood effect for eyes – this is a product used to make the eyes look bloodshot. In order to achieve this effect you must drip it into the eyes using the eyedropper. It will take about 15 minutes to work. For removal, use normal cleansing eye drops. This product comes in red, black, yellow and blue. It must be used within 25 days.

Thurman-King, L. (2014) Beauty Inspo: Red eyes at undercover fall 2014 -. Available at: http://www.thestylecon.com/2014/04/03/inspo-undercover-fall-2014-makeup/#!prettyPhoto/1/ (Accessed: 3 March 2016).

Blood powder – this is a pale red powder which becomes dark when mixed with water, often rubbed into the skin to create wounds.

Liquid blood – this product usually comes in a tub or tube. Liquid blood can dry up after a certain amount of time, however if a fair amount is used, it will remain wet which is perfect for dramatic scenes. Liquid blood is used to give more of a realistic effect on stage as it looks quite loose and wet. It’s also used in the TV department to replace human blood. Due to its liquid base it creates more of a realistic look.

Gel blood – This is another type of blood which is thick and remains wet when it is dry. It is mainly used to fill in cuts, wounds, rips and other injuries that may occur on the face/body which would require blood. It can be applied on with any type of brush depending on the size of the damage created on the face/body. Due to its glossy texture, it looks very realistic.

What is supra colour?

Supra colour, also known as grease paint is made of oil/crème, pigment, zinc oxide powder. They are very oily in consistency and texture. They are quite similar to aqua colours however much richer. This product is often used to help build character and effect such as bruises/injuries. It is easily applied on with a brush, sponge or the use of fingers and is also durable. Grease paints don’t run with sweat meaning they last long on performers. They blend well before it is set. In order to set it, you must use translucent powder otherwise it can start melting or smudging, especially under hot stage lights. If however you wish for the glossy appearance to remain, you may add a light coat of glycerine on top. Grease paints can also be used to change skin colour with the use of more product. To remove, use oil remover or a cleanser.

Dmedia, 2 (2016) Kryolan Supracolor palette 12 colours 12x3ml. Available at: http://www.screenface.co.uk/face-body-paint/grease-based/kryolan-supracolour-palette-12-colours.htm (Accessed: 3 March 2016).

What is sealer?

This can be a liquid or spray. Sealer is used to seal the makeup and keep it fresh and durable by coating the skin with a weightless and invisible film made from active hydrating ingredients. Beneath makeup, it prevents sweat and internal moisture and over makeup it seals and protects it from humidity, sweat and other environmental elements. A few coats must be applied to prepare a soft surface for brush/sponge application of makeup. This product is very comparable to liquid latex however dries faster. You can also put texture into the sealer by pressing it with a stipple sponge after applying the first coat. This however must be done before the application of primer, moisturiser or foundation. Sealers eliminate shine and prevent makeup from smudging onto clothes or other surfaces which makes them very ideal for heavy production requirements. It also spares the task of renewing powder applications and creates visible depth for close-up shots. This product can be used a non-drying thinner of water-soluble foundations. To remove, use cleanser or water.

Kryolan Sealer - permanent cosmetics (no date) Available at:
http://www.danceshopper.com/permanent-make-up.Kryolan_Sealer (Accessed: 3 March 2016).

What is cine wax?

Wax is used to build up facial areas, block out eyebrows, and smooth the edges on prosthetic pieces. Wax is soft, made from natural waxes such as bees wax. It is flexible and easy to work with as the heat from the hands softens it. It is often used to help build character by transforming the face, creating false bumps, scars etc. Wax is safe to use, durable and easily removed. It can be used to build up any area of the face provided that there is not too much movement of the underlying muscles. Places it has most effect on are the cheekbones, chin and the forehead. This product is widely used due to its moulding ability.

Kryolan Cine-Wax 40 G (no date) Available at: https://www.facepaintshop.eu/en/kryolan-special/2453-kryolan-cine-wax-40-g.html (Accessed: 3 March 2016).

What is wound filler?

This is a thick gel substance used for deep wounds which can be stiff and slow drying. It can be laid on in lumps, smeared or strung out to create quick and easy, yet realistic wounds/scratches. Wound fillers adhere well to the skin and works in particularly well when sealed with a plastic sealer/spray. It is very compatible with liquid blood and has good resistance to water effects. This product is very tacky, yet smooth and easy to use with the help of your fingers, a stipple sponge or a modelling tool. It also dries onto the skin so it doesn’t transfer. It remains flexible, is durable and safe to use on skin. Wound fillers can also be coloured with grease paint or makeup to alter its shade.

Makeup, T.P. (2016) Glynn Mckay wound filler - 60ml. Available at:
https://tiltmakeup.com/products/glynn-mckay-wound-filler (Accessed: 3 March 2016).

What is a stipple sponge?

This is a charcoal coloured web matrix filter sponge used for special effects and face painting. It is a textured sponge with lots of holes that when applied can give you a stubble effect. It can be used to create a variety of textures, bruises, and blood scratches. They also make great looking beard stubble growth. They vary in size. This type of sponge however can be quite rough to use on the face.

Step-by-step guide:

Before starting the practical, I set up my station and got rid of any bags, scarves and coats that were in the way for health and safety reasons. I then placed a towel around my model again for hygienic, health and safety reasons. Next, I ensured the area I was working on was clean (the arm). Billie had no product on her arm therefore I applied a small amount of the Kryolan Pro shield barrier foam (description of this product is written in my previous technical file) on the area I wanted to work on.

To create the wound, I scraped out some wax using a spatula. I rolled this in my hand to give it some body heat as the warmer the wax, the easier it is to work with. I then spread the wax along the area I put barrier cream on in a long line and smoothed the edges out with my spatula. To help me get it extra smooth, I applied some moisturiser to a cotton bud and went over the edges of the wax so that it melts into the skin. (You can also use acetone to smoothen the edges out). Once the wax became invisible, I used the edge of my spatula to cut a line along the centre of the wax. (As I wanted to create more of an open wound, I made sure the line is quite thick). Ensure this line is deep for a more realistic effect.

For this part, Sue told us it is optional to apply a thin layer of liquid latex over the wax with a cotton bud and dry it using a hairdryer until it goes clear. This was to help make the wound appear smoother. The wound I had created already looked smooth enough therefore I skipped this step and went in straight to the colouring. I first coloured the inside of the cut with black (071) supra colour using a thin brush (I had brought cheap paint brushes beforehand as I didn’t want to ruin my beauty ones). It was also optional to use Sue’s bruise wheel from Kryolan which consisted of deep plum colours however I stuck to my supra colours. For the outer corners of the wound I mixed red (079) and the black together to achieve a dark red. Sue said it is optional to mix our supra colours with IPA for a more pigmented look, however I thought the supra colour palette from Kryolan was already pigmented enough. I also applied red just around the cut, using a stipple sponge. I patted this on, as it irritates the skin to swish it around due to its texture. I also used my fingers to apply some of the same red on areas I thought needed colour. Ensure to blend this out for a more realistic effect.

Now this is the fun part. Once you’re done with the colouring, you can go in to apply the fake blood and wound filler. I took some wound filler out from its pot and applied it gently to the centre of the cut (where I applied the black) using the same brush. You don’t want to go too over the top with this as then it’ll just end up looking fake. I also used some of Sue’s Kensington Gore fake liquid blood. I used a stipple sponge to apply this blood around the cut and empty areas of the arm. Using a fan brush, I also flicked some blood onto the cut which Sue had taught us how to in the demo. She also said it’s optional to use a hair pin to apply the blood or wound filler.

‘Kensington Gore (a pun on the London Street) is a trademark for fake blood used in films and in theatre. It was manufactured by a retired British pharmacist, John Tinegate, during the 1960’s in the village of Abbotsbury, Dorset. Many varieties of blood, having various degrees of viscosity, shades and textures are available. Since Tinegate's death, the name "Kensington Gore" has become a generic term for stage blood. Kensington Gore was used in the film The Shining.’

Theatrical blood (2016) in Wikipedia. Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theatrical_blood#Kensington_Gore (Accessed: 31 March 2016).

To remove the open wound, you can gently peel the wax off the arm. You can use spirit gum remover also to take away all the excess wax. To do this, soak around the edges of the wound with a cotton bud soaked in spirit gum remover and leave it for a minute or two. Work gently around the edges in order to remove the wax off the skin. Clean off any remaining makeup from the skin with a cleanser and wash thoroughly with water. Moisturiser can also be used after removal to prevent the skin from drying.

What is spirit gum remover?

Spirit gum remover is a specifically developed solvent designed to gently remove makeup adhesives such as spirit gum. It is completely safe to use and doesn’t damage the skin.

Reflection:

Overall, I was very proud of my open wound. It was my first time doing a wound like this, as the previous ones I had done weren’t so big. Sue gave me great feedback and said the wax is blended well into the skin. The only thing she said is to apply more colours onto the rest of the arm, so it doesn’t look so stuck on. If I was to do this again, I’d probably blend out the edges using acetone instead of moisturiser. I’d also make sure I stipple red pigment such as blood onto all areas of the arm and not just the wound itself.

Key notes (taken in class):

• In the industry, injuries change over a time e.g. bruising gets lighter. 
• There is also fake glass available to purchase to incorporate into wounds/cuts. 
• You can put fake blood on clothing. 
• When doing work on the arms/hands, don’t forget to apply product on the knuckles.