Face-paint is actually characterised by the use of chemically active things. These things are used by theatre and TV artists in order to enhance their splendour and to cover the minor defects which may thwart them from looking the most stunning persons. Splendour is the most dominant factor for the persons of media, and the TV and theatre artists are somewhat more concerned about their splendour.

Theatrical cosmetics are different from the TV cosmetics in many ways. Theatrical cosmetics are more concerned with the function or character of the artist. It aims to compliment the particular character depicted by the play so that the idea is simply conveyed to the spectators through the proper use of cosmetics.

On the other hand, TV cosmetics are quite dissimilar from theatre cosmetics. The major concern of the TV cosmetics is to make the artists more beautiful and presentable. Nevertheless, the effects can be fashioned in the TV screen which has the ability to hide many defects, and it can project new effect as well. Nevertheless, theatre lacks the technical proficiencies which the TV camera possesses.

The theatre face-paint varies from the TV face-paint as it is presented by means of a live performance on the stage, in consequence lacking all the technical tricks which are performed by means of a TV camera. The theatre face-paint should be such that it can be straightforwardly noticeable to all the viewers. TV face-paint, whether light or shadowy, can be seen with the aid of camera techniques.

Lighting is also another main factor which makes the theatre face-paint different from the TV face-paint. The lighting on stage is comparatively lesser than that of the TV screen. The theatre face-paint is aimed to become visible to the live viewers. Due to the presence of multiple lights, the face-paint appears to be dull or nearly washed out. In order to overcome the lighting factor, the theatre face-paint usually comprises of pulsating hues so that they may become visible to the far seated viewers as well. Theatre face-paint is a very important factor in enhancing the character and conveying the idea to the live viewers.

While TV makeup does not requires brighter colours as the colours and makeup appears quite natural and perfect on the screen. TV camera has specialised techniques which help the artists in making them more attractive and beautiful. TV artists have to worry less about their beauty and appearance because of the available technical facilities.

Generally, the theatre makeup is marked by strong eye makeup, a brighter shade of lipstick, and vibrant colour on the cheeks. TV makeup characterises lighter shades as compared to the theatre makeup.

The theatre makeup is relatively harder to do than TV makeup. It is difficult to carry the makeup throughout the acts. Theatre artists have no time to check their makeup during several acts. Theatre makeup demands more perfection and ability to be held for long hours. Usually, theatre artists do not get enough time to go backstage and freshen up their makeup. On the other hand, TV artists get lot of time to be touched up during different shots.