A big THANK YOU to everyone commenting and endorsing this mod. It was a heck tonne of work, so I hope you all are enjoying it!
This mod has lots of files and complexities, so I have likely missed something somewhere. Please report any issues you find, and I will correct them asap.
Before posting any requests, questions, or issues, please read the description page first and the FAQ below. I may have already covered your concern.
If you are looking for a skin mod that compliments HiPoly Faces REDUX seamless, check out my Pure Opulence Skin mod.
FAQ: Q: Is this mod only limited to CBBE and TWB? A: Absolutely not! Only the seamless meshes are limited to CBBE/TWB and FG. Use the basic controls in the MCM if you don't want the seamless features, or are using a different body mod, or a male character. Additional body mod support may be added depending on demand.
Q: Do I need to start a new game? Can I install this mid-playthrough? A: You can install and use this anytime. It is safe and will activate automatically on the player character the first time. If you are starting a new game, I would recommend enabling the mod after you have completed the initial character creation.
Q: Load Order? A: The main plugin (.ESP) can be placed anywhere, it doesn't matter. The companion plugin (.ESL) should be at the top of your load order so that it can be easily overridden by other mods if necessary.
Q: Enabling Seamless skin still gives me seams. A: Do not enable this feature using the Looksmenu's Skin Override interface, it will not work as the correct head meshes won't be loaded (resulting in seams). Use the MCM settings and apply the tint layer from Looksmenu as instructed. If you still have seams after following the above instructions correctly, they are most likely due to color and/or specular mismatches on your skin textures. You need a better texture mod or remove your current one and just stick to the default textures included with your body mod and base game (for face textures).
Q: I have the old HiPoly Faces mod. What should I remove? A: Use this as a reference: -HighPoly Faces - remove. -HighPolyHeads - keep if you want, as this mod doesn't replace the default mesh (it has its own standalone ones). Beware; the old mesh is of poor quality. -HighPolyHeads CBBE Rear Fix Compatible - same as above. My recommendation is to remove everything from the old mod and install the new one.
Q: An old preset I use requires the old HiPoly Face mod. Can I use it with REDUX? A: Presets that rely on the old HiPoly Faces (.ESP version) mod should still work fine with REDUX (as the plugin name and formIDs have not changed). In case they don't, just use the MCM to re-enable HiPoly Face on your character and save the preset again.
Q: Should I keep using Rusty Face Fix with HFR? A: Keep it if you need this for NPCs and you don't want to use the seamless feature (for some reason). If you use this only for the player character, remove it (as HFR already includes a cleaner, lighter version based on a native F4SE feature). Update: if you want, you can remove the old rusty face fix and use the newer Rusty Face Fix Redux 2022. If you want to understand what causes the brown/rusty face bug and how you can try fixing them, read this article.
Q: Is there a way to confirm whether HFR is enabled or not? A: You should be able to tell just by zooming in on a character's face. You can use the console command 'twf' (without quotes) to confirm as well (input 'twf' again to disable wireframe mode).
Q: Are body/face texture mods not compatible with HFR seamless? A: They are but they must match the vanilla seam pattern and skin tone (like the default CBBE), at least out-of-the-box. If you use texture sets, like Cridowskin for example, that are brighter or have different skin tones, you will need a modified face texture mask (SeamMask_d.dds). You can easily do so by using the provided modders resource. Place your current face texture (Textures\Actors\Character\basehumanfemale\BaseFemaleHead_d.dds) into the indicated layer and then save as 'SeamMask_d.dds' (BC3 formated DDS). And if your face texture is 1K resolution, resize the TIF before anything else. Use Photoshop + Intel texture works DDS plugin to use the TIF files, save using the following formats - Normal maps ('_n') --> BC5 DDS (the format and correct resolution for the face texture is very important!) - Body/head diffuse/color map ('_d') --> BC7 Fast/Fine Linear DDS - Face diffuse/color map ('_d') --> BC3 Linear DDS (the format and correct resolution for the face texture is very important!) [I highly recommend using the Nvidia texture tools plugin for this type particularly as the Intel BC3 compression is poor].
Q: I don't understand or am unable to use Photoshop/GIMP/Paint.NET. What can I do to make HFR seamless work with my non-vanilla skin tone textures? A: If you are unable to edit the seam mask for unfair skin for any reason, there is a quick and dirty way; go to 'Textures\Actors\Character\basehumanfemale' and simply duplicate and rename the 'BaseFemaleHead_d.dds' to 'SeamMask_d.dds'. Note that doing it this way may change your character's look slightly if you use anything other than type 2 face parts. You no longer need to create compatible seam masks for non-vanilla skin tones. Just use the 'Any Diffuse' variant of Neck Correction in LooksMenu.
Q: What mod is X or Y in the screenshots from? A: Almost everything (skin texture, clothing, hair, ENB, etc.) in my screenshots are private ports and conversions and may not be available anywhere. Do note that some of the mods showcased here may be available on NukaLord's.
Which can mean just about anything. That plugin just has completely unmodified copies of companion NPC records (from UFO4P), that's all. Don't try to read such logs too literally; only use them as a very rough clue.
The effect is almost perfect, but I'm not sure if there are any mod conflicts. Every time I reload the game, I get a black face, although it can be fixed with the face preset
Looks good. The slight mismatch is probably from the textures themselves, which are also somewhat affected by the game's lighting. You can always experiment with different texture mods to see if you can futher improve the look.
As for the black face issue, it sounds to me like you may be overloading your game with high-res textures, which is making the engine give up on game load, causing the bug. The more RAM/VRAM you have, the less likely you are to see this type of face bug occurring. Also, mods like Rusty face fix can help as well.
So im using unfair skin with the seamless option. Applied the "any diffuse" correction and still have gaps. Any idea whats wrong? Also using female neck tweaks. Will stop if thats the issue.
EDIT: Uninstalled Female neck tweaks and issue persists. Wasnt that
This was the issue. Found the bodyslide files for that outfit. Seems to be fixed. Thank you so much. While I have you tho..
Also will you be doing a softer/chubbier version for pure opulence? Its SO good but I personally dont prefer a shredded body with abs. If not totally fine. Just wanted to ask. Applying the skin overrides my bodyslide preset for whatever reason (the prominent abs) hence me asking this
I don't have any additional plans for PO, at least for now. Sorry. You could try manually copying over the normal maps included with HFR and replacing the ones that are installed with PO. They may not be as detailed, but it will give you the softer/chubbier appearance that you are looking to get.
Ok thanks so much. Also im experiencing a new problem now. The mod is reverting upon certain save loads but its quite often. Pretty sure I saw a fix somewhere but cant find it. Any idea how to stop it reverting? Like your mod wont stay active is what im trying to say. Have to re-apply in mcm quite often
This will not cause the Rusty face bug. Why are you assuming it is?
Also, are you trying to use this with FHR? Please don't. FHR is a big overhaul of the female head meshes, and I do not think it will play nice with something like HFR. Use one mod or the other.
Hi. Thank you for fast reply. Game is fine without HiPoly Fix Main file, when I enable females are now rusty face. Ive tried with and without "HFR - 2K Face texture compatibility pack", as long as main file is enabled I have rusty face..
EDIT: Yea, after 4 hours of trial and error, disabling and enabling various mods, I cant get HiPoly Faces Reduc to work. Rusty face happens only when enabling main mod and all is fixed when disabled. (OFC I have HFR - 2K face bla bla bla)
EDIT2: managed to fix it, hipoly was clashing with an "Appealing Moles" mod
im using patrans piper replacer that requires Asian face enhanced and when i use the hipoly seamless on piper, she uses vanilla face parts instead of asian head parts.
That is not possible. AFE is a replacer, i.e. it doesn't add any new parts, so there is no way for it to use vanilla parts if the correct patches are installed. So make sure the AFR/HFR patch is installed, or reinstall it just in case.
1062 comments
This mod has lots of files and complexities, so I have likely missed something somewhere. Please report any issues you find, and I will correct them asap.
Before posting any requests, questions, or issues, please read the description page first and the FAQ below. I may have already covered your concern.
If you are looking for a skin mod that compliments HiPoly Faces REDUX seamless, check out my Pure Opulence Skin mod.
FAQ:
Q: Is this mod only limited to CBBE and TWB?
A: Absolutely not! Only the seamless meshes are limited to CBBE/TWB and FG. Use the basic controls in the MCM if you don't want the seamless features, or are using a different body mod, or a male character. Additional body mod support may be added depending on demand.
Q: Do I need to start a new game? Can I install this mid-playthrough?
A: You can install and use this anytime. It is safe and will activate automatically on the player character the first time. If you are starting a new game, I would recommend enabling the mod after you have completed the initial character creation.
Q: Load Order?
A: The main plugin (.ESP) can be placed anywhere, it doesn't matter. The companion plugin (.ESL) should be at the top of your load order so that it can be easily overridden by other mods if necessary.
Q: Enabling Seamless skin still gives me seams.
A: Do not enable this feature using the Looksmenu's Skin Override interface, it will not work as the correct head meshes won't be loaded (resulting in seams). Use the MCM settings and apply the tint layer from Looksmenu as instructed.
If you still have seams after following the above instructions correctly, they are most likely due to color and/or specular mismatches on your skin textures. You need a better texture mod or remove your current one and just stick to the default textures included with your body mod and base game (for face textures).
Q: I have the old HiPoly Faces mod. What should I remove?
A: Use this as a reference:
-HighPoly Faces - remove.
-HighPolyHeads - keep if you want, as this mod doesn't replace the default mesh (it has its own standalone ones). Beware; the old mesh is of poor quality.
-HighPolyHeads CBBE Rear Fix Compatible - same as above.
My recommendation is to remove everything from the old mod and install the new one.
Q: An old preset I use requires the old HiPoly Face mod. Can I use it with REDUX?
A: Presets that rely on the old HiPoly Faces (.ESP version) mod should still work fine with REDUX (as the plugin name and formIDs have not changed). In case they don't, just use the MCM to re-enable HiPoly Face on your character and save the preset again.
Q: Should I keep using Rusty Face Fix with HFR?
A: Keep it if you need this for NPCs and you don't want to use the seamless feature (for some reason). If you use this only for the player character, remove it (as HFR already includes a cleaner, lighter version based on a native F4SE feature). Update: if you want, you can remove the old rusty face fix and use the newer Rusty Face Fix Redux 2022.
If you want to understand what causes the brown/rusty face bug and how you can try fixing them, read this article.
Q: Is there a way to confirm whether HFR is enabled or not?
A: You should be able to tell just by zooming in on a character's face. You can use the console command 'twf' (without quotes) to confirm as well (input 'twf' again to disable wireframe mode).
Q: Are body/face texture mods not compatible with HFR seamless?
A: They are but they must match the vanilla seam pattern and skin tone (like the default CBBE), at least out-of-the-box. If you use texture sets, like Cridowskin for example, that are brighter or have different skin tones, you will need a modified face texture mask (SeamMask_d.dds). You can easily do so by using the provided modders resource. Place your current face texture (Textures\Actors\Character\basehumanfemale\BaseFemaleHead_d.dds) into the indicated layer and then save as 'SeamMask_d.dds' (BC3 formated DDS). And if your face texture is 1K resolution, resize the TIF before anything else.
Use Photoshop + Intel texture works DDS plugin to use the TIF files, save using the following formats
- Normal maps ('_n') --> BC5 DDS (the format and correct resolution for the face texture is very important!)
- Body/head diffuse/color map ('_d') --> BC7 Fast/Fine Linear DDS
- Face diffuse/color map ('_d') --> BC3 Linear DDS (the format and correct resolution for the face texture is very important!) [I highly recommend using the Nvidia texture tools plugin for this type particularly as the Intel BC3 compression is poor].
Q: I don't understand or am unable to use Photoshop/GIMP/Paint.NET. What can I do to make HFR seamless work with my non-vanilla skin tone textures?
A:
If you are unable to edit the seam mask for unfair skin for any reason, there is a quick and dirty way; go to 'Textures\Actors\Character\basehumanfemale' and simply duplicate and rename the 'BaseFemaleHead_d.dds' to 'SeamMask_d.dds'. Note that doing it this way may change your character's look slightly if you use anything other than type 2 face parts.
You no longer need to create compatible seam masks for non-vanilla skin tones. Just use the 'Any Diffuse' variant of Neck Correction in LooksMenu.Q: What mod is X or Y in the screenshots from?
A: Almost everything (skin texture, clothing, hair, ENB, etc.) in my screenshots are private ports and conversions and may not be available anywhere. Do note that some of the mods showcased here may be available on NukaLord's.
buffout log says HiPolyFacesCompanionPlugin.esl is the culprit
Don't try to read such logs too literally; only use them as a very rough clue.
- The texture mod ：Real HD Face Textures 2k ， Natural Fair Skin
I joined the HFR-2K Face texture compatibility pack, and it is now working🎈As for the black face issue, it sounds to me like you may be overloading your game with high-res textures, which is making the engine give up on game load, causing the bug. The more RAM/VRAM you have, the less likely you are to see this type of face bug occurring. Also, mods like Rusty face fix can help as well.
The character's eyelashes are off. Not sure what is wrong.
Installed Mods:
HiPoly Faces Redux
Realistic Facial Proportions
Realistic Facial Proportions HiPoly Faces Patch
EDIT: Uninstalled Female neck tweaks and issue persists. Wasnt that
PHOTO
Also will you be doing a softer/chubbier version for pure opulence? Its SO good but I personally dont prefer a shredded body with abs. If not totally fine. Just wanted to ask. Applying the skin overrides my bodyslide preset for whatever reason (the prominent abs) hence me asking this
You could try manually copying over the normal maps included with HFR and replacing the ones that are installed with PO. They may not be as detailed, but it will give you the softer/chubbier appearance that you are looking to get.
Since you use PO, use its optional plugin; it will help.
No, you should be fine to use that mod+HFR. If you are using seamless features, the MCM has unique player options built-in.
Also, are you trying to use this with FHR? Please don't. FHR is a big overhaul of the female head meshes, and I do not think it will play nice with something like HFR. Use one mod or the other.
Game is fine without HiPoly Fix Main file, when I enable females are now rusty face. Ive tried with and without "HFR - 2K Face texture compatibility pack", as long as main file is enabled I have rusty face..
EDIT: Yea, after 4 hours of trial and error, disabling and enabling various mods, I cant get HiPoly Faces Reduc to work. Rusty face happens only when enabling main mod and all is fixed when disabled. (OFC I have HFR - 2K face bla bla bla)
EDIT2: managed to fix it, hipoly was clashing with an "Appealing Moles" mod
Now I need to learn how to create an ingame "seamless neck preset" for Heather Companion :)
So make sure the AFR/HFR patch is installed, or reinstall it just in case.