They fit perfectly and move with the actor's own facial muscles. When painted and detailed they create a very convincing effect. Process The typical steps in applying a character make up are as follows. First, a base color is applied with a foam latex sponge. In the old days greasepaint came in toothpaste-type tubes and was very oily and messy.
Some actors prefer a water-based pancake product.
The base acts as a kind of medium into which the later layers of detail work can be blended. The base also establishes the complexion of the character. Next, lines, folds, and wrinkles are modeled with a brush using even stronger highlight and shadow colors. Then skin texture may be added with a stencil-like black plastic sponge. The powder also helps absorb sweat while the actor works under lights.