Fake blood is a staple of Halloween costumes, theatrical productions, and horror filmmaking. Its ability to add realism and impact to wounds, splatters, or dripping effects can elevate a costume or scene from ordinary to terrifying. But not all fake blood is created equal. Some types are designed for specific purposes, such as creating realistic injuries, while others are better suited for easy cleanup or edible applications.
Whether you’re crafting a cinematic masterpiece, designing a haunted house, or simply upping your Halloween game, the right fake blood can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll explore the best fake blood you can buy, breaking down options by realism, ease of use, and versatility.
Mehron Stage Blood is widely regarded as one of the best fake blood products on the market. Known for its realistic appearance and versatile formula, it’s a go-to choice for professionals in the film and theater industries. This syrup-based blood is available in arterial (bright red) and venous (dark red) colors, allowing you to match the tone to your specific needs.
What sets Mehron Stage Blood apart is its realistic consistency—it’s thick enough to stay in place but still runs like real blood. It’s also safe for use in the mouth, making it ideal for scenes requiring dripping or oozing effects from the mouth. While it’s not the easiest to clean, its realism makes it worth the effort for projects that demand authenticity.
Kryolan FX Blood is perfect for those who need fake blood that looks great but doesn’t create a mess that lingers. This washable formula is designed to rinse out of most fabrics and off of skin with minimal effort, making it ideal for costumes or performances where cleanup is a concern.
This blood has a medium consistency and a rich, dark red color that looks realistic both in person and on camera. It’s especially popular for creating cuts, scrapes, and minor splatters. Kryolan FX Blood is also safe for external use, making it a versatile choice for haunted houses, cosplay, or stage productions.
Ben Nye Stage Blood is another professional-grade option, known for its durability and realistic appearance. This corn syrup-based formula has a vivid color and a slightly glossy finish that mimics fresh blood. It’s perfect for creating wounds, splatters, and blood-soaked costumes that need to last for hours.
One of the standout features of Ben Nye Stage Blood is its ability to stay vibrant under stage lights and in front of cameras. It’s also safe for use in the mouth, adding versatility for vampire bites or gory effects. While it’s harder to clean than washable formulas, its long-lasting impact makes it a favorite among makeup artists and filmmakers.
If you’re looking for affordable fake blood that still delivers decent results, Spirit Halloween Blood Gel is a great pick. This budget-friendly option is available at most Halloween stores and offers a thick, gel-like consistency that’s perfect for wounds and dripping effects.
While it’s not as realistic or long-lasting as professional-grade products, it’s easy to use and works well for casual costumes and decorations. Its thicker texture makes it less likely to drip uncontrollably, and it dries quickly for a semi-permanent effect. For its price, Spirit Halloween Blood Gel provides great value for amateur makeup artists or DIY enthusiasts.
Fleet Street Bloodworks Drying Blood is a specialized product designed for creating splatter effects and large-scale blood sprays. Available in multiple shades, this formula dries to a matte finish, making it ideal for replicating dried blood on clothing, props, or sets.
What makes this product unique is its versatility. It can be applied with a brush, sponge, or spray bottle, allowing for creative freedom in achieving your desired effect. While it’s not washable, its ability to mimic dried blood makes it indispensable for detailed, realistic horror projects.
The best fake blood for your needs depends on the specific project, whether it’s a gory film scene, a spooky costume, or a haunted house effect. For professional-grade results, Mehron Stage Blood and Ben Nye Stage Blood are unbeatable in realism and versatility. For those prioritizing cleanup, Kryolan FX Blood offers a washable solution. Edible options like Vampfangs Blood cater to performances requiring safe mouth use, while Spirit Halloween Blood Gel provides an affordable entry point for casual users.
Ultimately, the perfect fake blood should balance realism, ease of use, and practicality for your specific situation. With the right product, you can bring your creative vision to life—whether it’s a terrifying Halloween costume or the next great horror masterpiece.