I need to do King Lear and a scene in which Gloucester's eyes get cut out and I need to get blood on the actor's face and might get in his eyes. Does anyone have any suggestions for possible fake blood I might use. I'd prefer making my own as I am on a tight budget.

So far, I know that I can use corn syrup blood or chocolate blood which are edible and not harmful. The problem though is that it stains clothes and skin. And as the actor won't be able to wash it off immediately, that would be a problem. Does anyone have any experience with home-made blood that does not stain and yet wouldn't hurt the eyes.

I have heard of using blue detergent but I think that wouldn't be good to get in one's eyes.

Or would anyone know of a way to get off red dye from the skin with some kind of facial soap, any recommendations?

Comments very much appreciated.