Synthetic Gel Colour
A specially formulated skin-tone colourant paste for synthetic ballistic gel, designed to improve visual realism without changing gel density or performance.
What is Synthetic Gel Colour?
Synthetic Gel Colour is a specialist paste developed for colouring synthetic ballistic gel. It provides a realistic human skin appearance while preserving the density and performance characteristics of the underlying gel.
The colourant is suitable for both 10% Forensic/FBI and 20% NATO synthetic gel formulations. Approximately 4 ml is used per kilogram of gel, although the final tone can be adjusted gradually according to the required level of realism.
A single 30 ml tube can treat up to approximately 7 kg of synthetic gel. The paste is added only after the gel has fully melted and reached its working temperature.
From Colourant Paste to Skin-Tone Gel
Use a small measured quantity to transform clear synthetic ballistic gel into a more realistic skin-coloured testing medium.
Synthetic Gel Colour — Skin
A 30 ml tube of concentrated colourant paste formulated specifically for synthetic ballistic gel.
Finished Skin-Tone Gel
The final colour depth can be adjusted to suit training, medical, forensic or display requirements.
Realistic Appearance
Creates a more lifelike skin tone for anatomical models and specialist training applications.
Performance Neutral
Designed not to alter the gel's density or ballistic performance characteristics.
Adjustable Intensity
Add the paste gradually until the required colour depth has been achieved.
Efficient Coverage
A 30 ml tube treats up to approximately 7 kg of synthetic gel.
Density Compatible
Suitable for both 10% Forensic/FBI and 20% NATO synthetic gel.
Reusable Gel Compatible
Works with the standard synthetic gel melting, recasting and reuse process.
How to colour synthetic ballistic gel
Work carefully with fully melted gel and build the colour gradually rather than adding the full quantity at once.
Heat the gel
Fully melt the synthetic gel and bring it within a working temperature range of approximately 120°C–150°C.
Add a small amount
Add a conservative quantity of colourant paste to the hot gel. More can be added later if required.
Mix thoroughly
Stir carefully until the colour is distributed evenly throughout the gel while avoiding unnecessary air introduction.
Adjust the colour depth
Gradually add more paste until the required skin tone and opacity have been achieved.
Pour and set
Pour the coloured gel into the mould and allow it to cool fully to room temperature before handling.
Inspect the finish
Check the colour consistency and surface condition before applying any optional polishing or matte treatment.
Surface treatment and realism
Bubble removal and polishing
Once the gel has set, the surface can be gently polished to remove minor surface bubbles and improve the overall finish.
Optional matte skin finish
For a more realistic skin-like appearance, lightly rub the cooled surface to reduce shine and create a softer matte texture.
Compatibility and handling
Product compatibility
- Does not affect gel density or performance when used as directed.
- Suitable for 10% and 20% synthetic gel.
- Compatible with normal remelting and recasting.
- Colour intensity can be adjusted for each application.
Best results
- Only add the paste to fully melted gel.
- Stir slowly to minimise bubbles.
- Use conservative additions and assess the tone between additions.
- Allow the cast to cool completely before finishing.
Synthetic Gel Colour support
How much colourant should I use?
Use approximately 4 ml per kilogram of gel as a guide, but begin with less and increase gradually until the desired tone is reached.
Will it change the gel density?
No. The colourant is formulated not to alter the density or performance characteristics of the synthetic gel when used correctly.
Can it be used with both densities?
Yes. It is suitable for both 10% Forensic/FBI and 20% NATO synthetic gel formulations.
Can coloured gel be remelted?
Yes. The colourant is compatible with the standard synthetic gel remelting and reuse process.
How do I create a matte finish?
Once the gel has cooled completely, lightly rub the surface to reduce shine and create a more realistic skin-like appearance.
How much gel will one tube cover?
A 30 ml tube treats up to approximately 7 kg of synthetic gel, depending on the colour intensity required.
Need help achieving the right skin tone?
Tell us the quantity and density of synthetic gel you are preparing, and the Defensible Ballistics team can help estimate the starting colourant quantity.