So this test paint job on a spare helmet turned out to be valuable. Learned some things.
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The major issue with using the vaseline is how it can make the silver layer look cloudy in places because of the wet paint on top of the vaseline when you wipe it off. I've never seen the real helmet in person so maybe that's something that happened on it just the same. Or maybe my wiping technique needs improvement. It also turns out the pressure you apply when wiping off determines how the damage looks. Vaseline is a fun way to do it if you're just winging it. A little frustrating if you're trying to replicate a pattern with accuracy. I think I'm going to continue with the latex on the rest of the my paintjob on the other helmet. Except maybe the 'pink' layer on the mandibles. On the original, the pink layer is so smooth, you can't see the layering at all, and you can only get that smooth look with vaseline or applying topically. I might do a little bit of both.