FM 20-3
Exposed skin reflects light and may draw attention. Even very dark skin, because of natural oils, will reflect light. CCD paint sticks cover these oils and help blend skin with the background. Avoid using oils or insect repellent to soften the paint stick because doing so makes skin shiny and defeats the purpose of CCD paint. Soldiers applying CCD paint should work in pairs and help each other. Self-application may leave gaps, such as behind ears. Use the following technique:
•Paint high, shiny areas (forehead, cheekbones, nose, ears, chin) with a dark color.
•Paint low, shadow areas with a light color.
•Paint exposed skin (back of neck, arms, hands) with an irregular pattern.
We used this method in Drum using just the green and loam USGI stick. It is very effective, remember that the camo wipes off so it has to be reapplied regularly. Most of us used gloves because it wouldn't stay on the hands. For the neck we just rubbed the green on and went back over with the dark color randomly. FYI, don't use the make up during cold weather because it conceals signs of frostbite. A mask is more appropriate in that environment.