Dark Elven Makeup

Many consider Dark Elven players “hard core” because of the makeup requirements, but that does not make them immune to potential ill effects. It is adviseable to experiment with the makeup for several hours before committing to play the race. Some people discover they are allergic to the makeup in general, and others discover they have a reaction over time.

Racial Requirements

Dark Elves are required to have jet black skin, pointed ears, and silver or white eyebrows and hair (including any facial hair). Regardless of natural skin color, Dark Elven players are required to wear black make-up. You are also required to wear pointed elf ears, such as can be found in costume shops and online. Even Dark Elves' fingernails and toenails are black (fingernail polish is a wonderful thing).

Makeup Supplies

Most Dark Elven players use black theatrical pancake makeup from either Mehron (either Paradise or StarBlend) or Ben Nye for their skin, though some use liquid makeup from Kryolan (recommended, though sometimes difficult to find) or Mehron in conjunction with an airbrush for application (Testors hobby airbrushes are inexpensive for beginners). You will also want what is known colloquially as charcoal powder, a black setting powder, which is available from Mehron, Ben Nye, and other companies.

Depending upon your natural hair and your personal tastes, you have the option of either coloring your hair white during an event or wearing a wig. For coloring, both Kryolan or Graftobian make color sprays that are professional quality and will cover and hold up well. You can then use regular liquid hair white from Mehron or Ben Nye to whiten facial hair and eyebrows.

Some recommended online vendors:


Makeup Application

In the most basic sense, you will apply a base of pancake or liquid makeup over your exposed skin, and then utilize charcoal powder to set that and achieve a more finished, natural look. We will soon be providing a more complete guide, including pictures.