Oil based theatrical makeup is a special kind of product that does not require water to be activated. They work in a similar way to regular makeup as it is applied using a makeup brush or applicator directly on to the skin. It will create a thick very opaque coverage that can be set with setting powders to create a sweat and friction proof design. Because of its oil base, line work must be done using grease pencils or crayons. Pressed powders can be used to create shading or adding textures with stencils over the oil based theatrical makeup. 

This kind of makeup is specifically designed to withstand the high heat from theater lights, preventing the design from melting off your skin as normal water based products would do under these conditions.