How do you use the custom skins on sims you download?

Answer 1

For The Sims 1: Unknown.

For The Sims 2 (with any combination of expansion packs):

Step 1) Ensure the downloaded Sim's .package file and the custom skin are both in your 'C:\My Documents\EA Games\The Sims 2\Downloads' folder.

Step 2) Start The Sims 2, enter a lot, create a Sim, select the premade (downloaded) Sim. Your downloaded Sim should appear at the front of the premade Sim page, with a blue star-like icon at the top of the Sim's picture. Select the Sim downloaded Sim.

Step 3) Go to the tab where you choose your Sim's name.

Step 4) Select a 'Custom' skintone. A list showing the custom texture you downloaded should appear.

This process applies to non-downloaded (default) Sims, as well.

Please note: If the downloaded Sim uses a customized mesh (body model)/texture (skintone) combination, you will need to have a skintone that is made specifically for that mesh. Furthermore, a custom mesh cannot use any default Sim hair/eye colors or any hair/makeup/clothes. Basically, you can only use what it came with, or additional custom content made specifically for that mesh. Finally, A custom skintone will not show up for a default Sim model if it is made for a custom model.