Margaret Qualley Opens Up About Skin Damage from Prosthetics Used in Horror Film “The Substance”

Margaret Qualley, the talented actress known for her captivating performances, recently revealed the toll her role in the horror film The Substance took on her skin. The 29-year-old star opened up about the severe damage caused by prosthetics she wore during filming, a commitment that left her dealing with skin issues for over a year.

A Role That Left a Mark

In a candid interview, Qualley shared that her experience on the set of The Substance was both physically and emotionally taxing. The film, which delves into dark and disturbing themes, required her to wear elaborate prosthetics to transform into her character. While the prosthetics added a layer of realism to her performance, they came at a significant cost to her health.

“The prosthetics were incredible in how they brought my character to life,” Qualley said. “But the aftermath was something I wasn’t prepared for. My skin was severely damaged, and it took months of treatment to start feeling normal again.”

The Challenges of Wearing Prosthetics

Prosthetics are often used in the film industry to achieve dramatic visual effects, especially in horror and fantasy genres. However, they can be harsh on the skin, particularly when worn for extended periods. Qualley recalled how the adhesives and materials used to secure the prosthetics caused irritation, breakouts, and long-term sensitivity.

“It wasn’t just about looking scary or otherworldly,” she explained. “It was about enduring hours in the makeup chair, wearing something that felt suffocating and heavy, and then dealing with the aftermath when the cameras stopped rolling.”

The actress noted that despite her efforts to care for her skin during the production, the constant application and removal of prosthetics left her with lingering issues.

Emotional and Physical Struggles

Qualley’s journey with The Substance wasn’t just a physical challenge—it also took an emotional toll. The role demanded intense emotional depth, and the discomfort caused by the prosthetics only added to the strain.

“There were days when I felt like I couldn’t do it,” she admitted. “The weight of the character, combined with the physical pain, was overwhelming. But I reminded myself that it was all part of the process, and I’m proud of what we created.”

Recovery and Lessons Learned

After filming wrapped, Qualley embarked on a year-long journey to heal her skin. She worked closely with dermatologists and skincare experts to repair the damage, relying on treatments like chemical peels, hydration therapies, and soothing products to restore her complexion.

The experience taught her valuable lessons about self-care and setting boundaries in her work. “I’ve learned to advocate for myself and my health on set,” she said. “As much as I want to give everything to my roles, I also need to ensure I’m taking care of myself.”

A Cautionary Tale for Actors

Qualley’s story serves as a cautionary tale for actors who often push their bodies to the limit for their craft. While prosthetics and other special effects can enhance a performance, they can also have unintended consequences.

“I hope my experience can shed light on the challenges actors face behind the scenes,” Qualley said. “It’s important to have conversations about safety and well-being, especially when it comes to the physical demands of certain roles.”

Looking Ahead

Despite the challenges, Qualley remains passionate about her craft and excited for future projects. She hopes that sharing her story will inspire greater awareness and care within the industry.

“I wouldn’t trade the experience for anything,” she concluded. “It pushed me to grow as an artist and as a person. But I also hope that we can find ways to make the process safer and more sustainable for everyone involved.”

Margaret Qualley’s dedication to her role in The Substance is a testament to her commitment as an actress. While the journey was far from easy, her resilience and openness about her struggles offer a powerful reminder of the sacrifices artists make for their work.