The Dick Smith Blood Recipe is one of the most famous special effects secrets ever shared. Dick Smith, who passed away at 92 on July 30, 2014, was beloved in the makeup world. Known as “The Godfather of Makeup,” he inspired generations with his groundbreaking work and generosity. His Monster Makeup Handbook was a holy grail for every monster-loving kid — myself included. I used to check it out from the library and dream about using the Dick Smith Blood Recipe on films I directed myself.

Dick Smith: Mentor, Master, and His Famous Blood Recipe

Dick Smith was more than a master — he was a mentor to so many. He answered student letters and shared secrets like the Dick Smith Blood Recipe freely. Many of my friends in the industry were lucky to learn from him. Rick Baker said it best: “There’s never going to be another Dick Smith. Dick is, without a doubt, the greatest makeup artist who’s ever going to live.” Hard to argue with that.

One of his greatest lessons? Don’t hoard your knowledge. Share it. Help others get better — even if they outshine you. That’s how true legends stay legends. Greg Nicotero of The Walking Dead said, “I’ve always based my blood on Dick Smith’s formula. His blood has always been the staple of the industry. It’s one of those things where if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”

In Taxi Driver, Robert De Niro’s iconic mohawk was created by legendary makeup artist Dick Smith using a bald cap and individual horse hairs glued on.

⚠️ Important Safety Disclaimer for Dick Smith Blood Recipe

This fake blood recipe contains poisonous ingredients. The Dick Smith Blood Recipe is for professional special effects use only.
DO NOT eat, drink, or put it in your mouth or eyes. Keep it away from kids and pets. Wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area. Store it safely.
Use at your own risk. For emergencies, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.

In “The Exorcist,” Dick Smith’s makeup application for Linda Blair, transforming her into the possessed Regan MacNeil, usually took 3 to 4 hours.

How to Make the Dick Smith Blood Recipe

Here it is — the legendary Dick Smith Blood Recipe used in Taxi Driver, The Godfather, The Exorcist, and more.

Ingredients:

• 1 tsp Zinc Oxide (from a laboratory supply)

• 1 tsp Ehler Yellow Food Color

• 1 oz. Ehler Red Food Color

• 1 oz. Water

• 1 oz. Kodak Photo-Flo (Poisonous — from a photo supply store)

• 1 quart White Corn Syrup

Directions:

1. Place zinc oxide in a mixing bowl. Add water and Kodak Photo-Flo (poisonous!).

2. Add red and yellow food coloring. If using a brand other than Ehler’s Yellow, use half the amount.

3. Mix in a quarter of the corn syrup. Transfer to a large container — the blood may separate.

4. Add the rest of the corn syrup. Mix well.

5. Keep refrigerated to prevent mold. Always stir well before using.

Safer Tips for Using the Dick Smith Blood Recipe

Modern artists often choose non-toxic blood recipes or store-bought blood, especially for scenes near the mouth. The Dick Smith Blood Recipe is an industry classic, but there are safer alternatives for hobbyists or family-friendly sets.

Easy Non-Toxic Fake Blood Recipe

Here’s a simple, mouth-safe option:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup light corn syrup

• 2 tbsp chocolate syrup (for darkness and texture)

• Red food coloring (add drops until you get the shade you want)

• A tiny drop of blue food coloring (optional, for realism)

Directions:

1. Mix corn syrup and chocolate syrup until smooth.

2. Add red food coloring a few drops at a time, stirring well.

3. If needed, add one drop of blue to deepen the color — but go easy!

4. Store in a sealed container in the fridge and stir before using.

This version is sticky and sweet but safe for fake wounds near the mouth (just don’t drink it like a smoothie). Always test a small patch first for skin sensitivity.

Here’s the non-toxic fake blood recipe we used for my feature film, Chip & Bernie’s Zomance. Sticky, safe, and just spooky enough — we had a blast splattering this stuff all over Marc!

Long Live the King of Blood

The Dick Smith Blood Recipe is more than corn syrup and food coloring. It’s a symbol of Dick’s brilliance and kindness. He didn’t keep secrets — he made sure the next generation could create monsters just as horrifying as his. Long live the King of Blood!

⚠️ Final Disclaimer: Use Dick Smith Blood Recipe At Your Own Risk

This information is for educational reference only. The author accepts no responsibility for misuse or injury. By reading this, you agree you’re using it at your own risk. Stay safe, get creative, and scare responsibly!

“The Godfather of Makeup” Dick Smith