What Do Actors Use When They Can’t Cry?
Crying on cue is one of the toughest challenges for actors. While some can tap into deep emotions to produce real tears, others struggle to cry on demand. So, what do actors use when they can’t cry? Filmmakers have several tricks to ensure convincing emotional performances, even when actors can’t naturally produce tears.
1. Menthol Vapors & Tear Stick
- Many actors use menthol vapors or tear sticks, which release menthol fumes near the eyes to cause natural tears.
- A menthol tear stick is a small waxy tube applied under the eyes that irritates them just enough to produce tears.
- Some actors use menthol sprays, which work similarly but in mist form.
2. Glycerin Tears (Artificial Tears)
- If an actor can’t cry naturally, glycerin drops are applied to their eyes to mimic real tears.
- Glycerin tears are long-lasting and reflect light like real tears, making them appear natural on camera.
3. Emotional Recall (Memory-Based Crying)
- Some actors try to trigger real tears by recalling personal traumatic experiences.
- This technique, often used in Method Acting, involves tapping into deep emotions like loss, heartbreak, or childhood memories.
4. Music & Personal Triggers
- Some actors listen to sad music or read touching letters to stir emotions.
- Others create personal rituals before a scene, such as looking at a photo or repeating emotional phrases.
5. Controlled Breathing & Facial Tension
- Actors can simulate crying by changing their breathing patterns—short, uneven breaths signal distress.
- Scrunching the face, quivering lips, and tightening the throat can give the illusion of crying, even if no tears appear.
6. Eye Irritants (Less Common Methods)
- In extreme cases, directors may blow air or dust into an actor’s eyes to stimulate tearing.
- This is less common today, as actors prefer more natural methods.
Do All Actors Cry for Real?
Not always! While many actors train to produce real tears, some rely on these external methods to enhance their performances. The goal is not just to cry but to sell the emotion convincingly to the audience.
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