Free How-To Guide
Foam Latex Adhesives
The pros and cons between prosthetic adhesive (Pro Adhesive) and spirit gum — so you can choose the right adhesive for your makeup job.
Professional-strength, long-lasting hold
Pro Adhesive
A 1 oz size of Pro Adhesive is perfect for smaller makeup jobs requiring only a few applications. It is stronger than spirit gum and lasts much longer.
Advantages
- Does not contain solvents that could irritate your skin
- Water soluble when still wet
- Virtually odorless
- Lasts much longer than spirit gum
- Can be reactivated with alcohol
Remover: Pro Adhesive Remover loosens the prosthetic from your skin. It's great for removal if you aren't planning on reusing the mask or appliance, or simply want to clean your skin.
TIP: If you plan on using your appliance more than once, only use rubbing alcohol to loosen it. Pro Adhesive Remover has an oil in it that bloats the edges of your appliance — you won't be able to easily blend the appliance into your skin.
The classic, beginner-friendly choice
Spirit Gum
Spirit Gum is the most popular, time-tested, low-cost adhesive for prosthetics and crepe wool hair. It's great for laying beards, mustaches, eyebrows and sideburns. Made of gum and ether, it is the most common adhesive on the market. The benefit of spirit gum over other adhesives is that it is forgiving if you make a mistake.
Advantages
- Great for beginners — more forgiving than Pro Adhesive
- Ideal for applying facial hair, eyebrows, mustaches, beards and sideburns
- Used by both beginners and professionals
- Graftobian brand lasts longer than other brands
NOTE: Spirit Gum Remover is required to remove this adhesive. If you need an adhesive that will last all day, Pro Adhesive is the better choice.
Versatile — adhesive, texture builder, and edge smoother
Liquid Latex
Liquid latex is used to smooth edges on foam latex appliances, create unusual skin textures, or as an adhesive for prosthetics and crepe wool hair. Colorless when dry. No remover required — simply peel cured latex off skin.
Advantages
- Easy to build up skin textures, bullet hits and scars
- No additional remover required — simply peel off
- Smooths and blends appliance edges seamlessly
- Colorless when fully dry
TIP: Use liquid latex when you want to build up a skin texture. Allow each layer to dry completely before adding the next. Use a hair dryer on a low heat setting to speed up the process. Use powder before removing since liquid latex sticks to itself when dry.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Pro Adhesive | Spirit Gum | Liquid Latex |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hold Strength | Very Strong | Moderate | Moderate |
| Beginner Friendly | No | Yes | Yes |
| Odor | Virtually none | Solvent odor | Mild latex odor |
| Remover Required | Optional | Yes | No — peel off |
| Best For | Full-day wear, prosthetics | Facial hair, eyebrows | Textures, edge blending |
| Reusable Appliances | Use alcohol only | Yes | Yes |
Want to Learn More?
Download our free guide on how to apply and store foam latex appliances — covering preparation, application, blending, and care.