Module 9: Special Effects Makeup

This module is part of the CUA51020 – Diploma of Screen and Media (Specialist Makeup Services) at IMUA and introduces core special effects makeup techniques used to simulate injuries and disease. In this module, you will explore how makeup is used to create realistic and convincing effects that support character, narrative, and production requirements.

You will develop practical skills in creating a range of special effects, including bruises, cuts, burns, scars, and sutures, with a strong emphasis on texture, colour, and realism. The module also introduces fantasy and character-based applications, such as zombie makeup, allowing you to explore creative expression within special effects design.

By the end of Module 9, you will be able to design and apply special effects makeup that achieves strong visual impact while meeting professional and production standards. These skills form a foundation for more advanced prosthetic and special effects work in subsequent modules.

Module 9 Preview — Special Effects Makeup

Why This Module Matters

SFX makeup is a highly specialised skill area that opens doors in film, theatre, and creative industries. By mastering the art of injury simulation, you’ll be equipped to create convincing effects that tell powerful stories.

Learn realistic injury simulation techniques.
Practise creating bruises, cuts, scars, and burns.
Explore disease and fantasy effects like zombie makeup.
Build confidence in applying layered, cohesive SFX looks.

By the end, you’ll be able to design impactful, believable injury makeups that read clearly on camera and on stage.

As part of the Diploma, this module features assignments, written knowledge questions, portfolio development, and exclusive content designed to build your knowledge, practical skills, and professional confidence throughout the makeup artistry course.

What You’ll Learn

Injury & Disease Simulation
Learn to create realistic effects such as bruises, abrasions, scabs, burns, and pox marks.
Cuts, Scars & Sutures
Develop techniques for applying lacerations, scars, and stitched wounds.
Burns & Blood Effects
Explore products and methods for creating believable burns and layered blood effects.
Fantasy SFX Makeup
Practise zombie-inspired designs and experiment with fantasy embellishments.

What You’ll Do

Create Injury Simulations
Create realistic injury and disease simulations, including bruises, cuts, scars, and burns.
Design Cohesive SFX Makeup
Apply layered techniques to design cohesive special effects makeups.
Add Realistic Detail
Incorporate blood, dirt, perspiration, or tears to enhance realism and impact.
Explore Fantasy SFX Techniques
Explore fantasy SFX applications, such as zombie character design.

Units Covered

This module integrates practical skills from the following accredited units:

CUAPPR411 – Realise a creative project
CUAMUP411 – Design, apply and remove make-up
CUAMUP512 – Design and apply specialised make-up
CUAMUP513 – Design and apply special make-up effects
CUAMUP614 – Create prosthetics for special makeup effects
CUADES412 – Interpret and respond to a design brief
BSBCRT413 – Collaborate in creative processes
CUADES511 – Implement design solutions

These units are taught through practical tasks, interactive tutorials, visual references, carefully selected external links, and hands-on assignments, ensuring you develop both your analytical and creative abilities. Our modules combine high-quality images, diagrams and theoretical content in an easy-to-digest format.

Please note: The above list is not indicative of unit completion; most of our units are taught (in parts) across multiple modules.

Module Topics

In Module 9, we will cover the following topics and beyond:

Introduction
SFX Injury and Disease Simulation
Bruising
Abrasions
Scabs
Tears and Perspiration
Artificial Dirt
Cuts and Lacerations
Sutures/Stitches
Bullet Wounds
Scars

Tattoos
Chicken Pox (Varicella) Simulation
Small Pox
Burns
Injury and Disease SFX for Fantasy Characters
Creating a Zombie Character
Zombie Character Technique
Character Contact Lenses
Demonstrations
Burns Makeup Demonstration
Assault Makeup Demonstration

Module Outcomes

By completing Module 9, you will be able to:

Design and apply realistic injury and disease simulations, including bruises, cuts, scars, and burns.
Use layered techniques to create cohesive and believable special effects makeup designs.
Incorporate blood, dirt, and perspiration details to enhance realism.
Explore fantasy-based special effects applications, including zombie character makeup.

Guidance Every Step of the Way

Our tutors will guide you in creating convincing effects safely and effectively, helping you balance technical accuracy with creative storytelling in your SFX work.