Margaret Qualley reveals skin damage caused by prosthetics in the film “The Substance”

Margaret Qualley, one of Hollywood’s rising stars, has drawn public attention after revealing the physical toll she endured while portraying her character in the film The Substance. The horror film, directed by Coralie Fargeat, required extensive prosthetic applications on the actress’s face for long periods. However, this process resulted in severe skin damage, which persisted even after filming ended. The actress described the experience as challenging and revealed that her condition was so severe that the production team had to modify camera angles to minimize the visibility of the skin problems caused by the heavy and prolonged use of prosthetic makeup. This revelation has reignited discussions about the adverse effects of extreme character transformations on actors and the limitations of traditional physical transformation methods in cinema.

The production of The Substance received significant recognition in the film industry, earning multiple award nominations, including at the 2025 Critics Choice Awards. The psychological horror film secured seven nominations and won in the category of Best Hair and Makeup. This achievement highlights the visual impact of the film’s character design, even though it posed challenges for its lead actress. Qualley played a role that demanded a radical transformation, and her extreme dedication to the part resulted in considerable physical strain.

The actress’s account of her skin damage sparked widespread reactions, bringing attention to the need for safer and less aggressive materials in cinematic makeup and prosthetic applications. This kind of physical toll has been reported by other actors who have had to endure extensive prosthetic makeup, emphasizing the necessity for innovation in the industry to prevent lasting harm.

The impact of prosthetic makeup in “The Substance”

Prosthetic makeup is a common practice in cinema, used to create impressive transformations and enhance an actor’s ability to embody a character. In The Substance, the prosthetic applications on Margaret Qualley’s face were essential to the film’s aesthetic but resulted in severe physical effects. The repeated use of chemical adhesives, prolonged wear, and harsh removal processes can cause adverse reactions, including irritation, allergies, and even lasting scars.

The actress revealed that her skin was so compromised that the film’s crew had to find visual solutions to reduce her face’s exposure on screen. Some scenes were restructured using specific camera angles or set elements to disguise the marks left by the makeup process. This adjustment was a necessary measure to avoid delays in production and minimize the impact of her damaged skin on the final footage.

The challenges of physical transformation in cinema

Radical physical transformations are common in the film industry and are often seen as a sign of an actor’s dedication to a role. However, the consequences of such changes can be long-lasting and impact the health of those involved. Many actors have undergone extreme transformations, experiencing drastic weight changes, physical strain, or side effects from prosthetic makeup and costume elements.

Margaret Qualley’s case underscores the need for a more cautious approach when using materials for character transformations. Modern techniques, such as a combination of practical effects with CGI (computer-generated imagery), could provide less harmful alternatives, preserving actors’ well-being while maintaining high-quality visuals.

Awards and recognition for “The Substance”

Despite the filming challenges, The Substance received widespread acclaim during the awards season. At the 2025 Critics Choice Awards, the film was nominated in seven categories, cementing its status as one of the year’s standout productions. These nominations included Best Picture, Best Actress for Demi Moore, and Best Supporting Actress for Margaret Qualley. Additionally, the film’s makeup team won Best Hair and Makeup, highlighting the complexity of the work involved in transforming the actors.

Winning in this category not only acknowledged the film’s visual design but also recognized the technical expertise of the team responsible for creating the striking looks of the characters. The award solidified The Substance as a notable entry in the horror genre, despite the hardships faced by its cast during production.

Physical damage and its impact on actors’ health

Physical deterioration due to extreme character transformations is not uncommon in the entertainment industry. The use of prosthetics and heavy makeup can cause allergic reactions, damage the skin barrier, and lead to chronic inflammation. In Margaret Qualley’s case, prolonged exposure to the materials used in her prosthetic makeup severely affected her skin, requiring months for full recovery.

This incident highlights the importance of reevaluating makeup techniques in the film industry, considering not only the aesthetic impact but also the potential side effects for actors. As cinematic technology advances, adopting less invasive alternatives could prevent serious health consequences while maintaining the artistic integrity of productions.

The use of special effects in character transformations

With technological advancements, many filmmakers have turned to special effects to supplement or replace traditional prosthetic makeup. CGI allows for remarkable transformations without the need for prolonged exposure to chemical adhesives, reducing the physical strain caused by traditional makeup. However, some productions still favor practical effects, as they provide a more tangible and immersive experience for actors and audiences alike.

In psychological horror films like The Substance, the presence of physical, on-set effects enhances the film’s unsettling atmosphere. Despite this, actor safety should remain a priority, and balancing practical effects with digital enhancements could be a viable solution to protect performers while achieving visually stunning results.

Curiosities about “The Substance” and its impact on cinema

• The film was directed by Coralie Fargeat, known for her innovative work in the horror genre.
• The Substance premiered at film festivals before its commercial release, receiving praise for its dark atmosphere and strong performances.
• Margaret Qualley’s character required extensive prosthetic transformations, which were among the most discussed elements of the film.
• The film’s success led to comparisons with classic horror films, solidifying its place as one of the standout releases of the year.
• Demi Moore, who also starred in the movie, was nominated for Best Actress at the Critics Choice Awards.

Margaret Qualley’s career and industry impact

Margaret Qualley has established herself as one of the most versatile actresses of her generation. The daughter of renowned actress Andie MacDowell, she initially trained as a dancer before transitioning to acting. Her talent gained widespread recognition in projects such as Once Upon a Time in… Hollywood and Maid, cementing her reputation as a skilled and dedicated performer.

Her role in The Substance further demonstrates her commitment to her craft, even at the cost of personal discomfort. Her experience serves as a reminder of the need for greater care in prosthetic makeup application, ensuring that industry professionals can deliver outstanding performances without compromising their health.

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