The Difference Between Airbrush Makeup and Traditional Makeup
As makeup artists we often hear the question, "What is the difference between airbrush makeup and regular makeup?" Better yet, "What is airbrush makeup?" Whether you're newly engaged or just looking for the best makeup products - it's important to have a clear idea of the benefits and the disadvantages of traditional makeup and airbrush makeup. Here’s a quick overview of what you can find below:
STEP 1: UNDERSTAND THE APPLICATION
Q: What is airbrush makeup?
Airbrush makeup is a fine mist of controlled air that pushes out color (foundation) through a small gun attached to an air compressor. The foundation consistency is thinner than your traditional foundation allowing for a soft mist and steady stream of air to create an even product finish over the top of the skin. The light-weight foundation sprays onto the face for flawless coverage and long wear. The makeup can also be applied with the intention of a soft natural look if desired. The various airbrush makeup products are used for foundation, bronzer, blush, and highlight. Think of it as a fun approach to extended wear foundation.
Q: What is the main difference between traditional makeup and airbrush makeup?
The key distinction between airbrush makeup and traditional makeup is the way the product is applied. Traditional makeup is applied by hand tools such as a brush, beauty blender, or sponge and it can be worked into the skin for an even finish. The coverage of traditional makeup can range from a natural dewy glow to a matte-heavy/full coverage based on the formula. Traditional makeup products such as powder, bronzer, and blush can be used in conjunction with a traditional foundation.
Example 1: Shows the difference between traditional bridal makeup and airbrush bridal makeup after 3 hours of wear. Both achieving a natural finish. (Olivia Griffin Photography
Example 2: Shows the difference between traditional makeup and airbrush makeup after 4 hours of wear. Both achieving a full flawless coverage. (Top: Ali Elizabeth Photography | Bottom: Shauna Veasey Photography)
STEP 2: GET FAMILIAR WITH THE COVERAGE
Airbrush makeup gets a bad wrap when it comes to coverage. Some ladies are under the impression airbrush makeup only provides a light natural finish, and others have suggested airbrush product only gives you a heavy finish. A great makeup application, traditional makeup or airbrush makeup, is based on the artist behind the application. The coverage of the airbrush is easily adjustable and controlled by the trigger on the gun and the air pressure setting.
Imagine you're spraying paint across a white wall in your bedroom with a paint gun. We're repainting this wall white to freshen it up and make it pop again. The original painted white wall shows every little detail, mark, & ding (think of this as blemishes). Naturally, we want the wall to be perfect and flawless again. It does not mean we want it to be a different color, nor do we want a heavy amount of paint slapped on. The overall goal is to bring the wall back to life again by giving it a fresh look. The same idea goes into play for airbrush makeup, traditional makeup, and perfecting the skin for a flawless finish.
Paperlily Photography
PRO's AND CON'S
Airbrush Benefits:
seamless coverage,
flawless natural finish
non-comedogenic (it won't clog your pores)
hypoallergenic
light-weight
does not transfer
offers a bond that will stay strong for 6 to 8 hours
Airbrush Disadvantage:
the product doesn't work well with sunburn, excess hair, or dry skin.
The fine mist will pick up any fine hairs or dry skin patches.
touch ups will break down the coverage if it is a silicone-based airbrush formula
Step 3: Find the Right Product
We base our application choice on the desired effect the client would like to achieve and the advantages and disadvantages of each technique.
Like traditional makeup, airbrush makeup has an assortment of formulas based on the finish you are trying to achieve
Airbrush makeup before and after displays the length of wear and the staying power of airbrush makeup. I am wearing Temptu Perfect Canvas foundation in Buff, Matte Bronzer, & Pale Pink Blush. View products used, here.
The silicone-based formula is the product of choice for brides* it offers a light to full coverage that is smudge-proof, long-lasting, and great for hiding imperfections.
Water-Based: this formula will offer more of a dewy glow with extended wear.
Alcohol-Based: waterproof; think Halloween makeup or tattoo coverage.
CHECK OUT OUR FAVORITE FORMULAS HERE.
The wearability of airbrush makeup is put to the test with my own before and after look. Pictured above, you will find the airbrush makeup I applied at 8 am in the morning. My workday included hiking a mountain, crossing rivers, and finishing at a waterfall. The after photo is at the end of the day, and the airbrush makeup stayed in place without one touch-up.
Clients have loved their airbrush makeup look so much that they want to know what machine for great for their personal use.
[ before/afters HERE ]
Both airbrush and traditional makeup applications are great options for an important event. The main factor for beautiful wedding day makeup is the person behind the service. Ensure your local makeup artist understands both makeup applications and the look you are trying to achieve. During the inquiry stage, ask as many questions as possible. Questions help create a concise line of communication and it makes our job easier as wedding stylists. The Beauty Asylum team put together top questions to ask your professional wedding makeup artist here.
Check out our standard bridal airbrush pricing and find comparable airbrush rates here. Hopefully, this will give you a general idea of the average airbrush makeup price.
If you love this post or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to comment below.
Also, look over our full wedding galleries below with brides that used airbrush makeup for their wedding day. You will be able to see how their makeup look holds from start to finish.