What Is Airbrush Makeup: Pros, Cons, and Is It Worth It?

Have you ever marvelled at the seamless, picture-perfect makeup on stage and screen? Airbrush makeup is often the artist’s choice behind those impeccable looks.

Airbrush makeup is a technological marvel when it comes to applying makeup fast, especially in the stage makeup and bridal makeup sectors. In this article, we answer the question – what is airbrush makeup – as well as why it is so popular, its flawless benefits, cons to consider, and whether it is the right option for you. 

Key points:

What Is Airbrush Makeup?

Airbrush makeup is a revolutionary technique that compresses air to evenly distribute foundation across your skin through a specialised airbrush device. This approach offers a level of finesse and finish that traditional brushes and sponges cannot match. Typically used when celebrities are on the red carpet, its unique ability lies in ensuring a flawless, seamless look.

Explore our range of airbrushing makeup and see how Treasure House of Makeup can expand your theatrical makeup horizons.

10 Pros of Airbrush Makeup

There are many benefits of airbrush makeup, and we have broken these down into specific detail. 

1. Flawless Quality

Airbrush makeup can deliver a flawless finish that mimics a naturally perfect skin tone. Unlike traditional foundations that may appear cakey or uneven, airbrush makeup applies in such fine layers that it seamlessly covers imperfections without weighing down the skin. This method is particularly effective in masking scars, blemishes, and under-eye circles, giving the skin a fresh, impeccable appearance.

2. Long Lasting

Airbrush makeup is renowned for its durability. Designed to withstand long hours under studio lights or through intensive events, it can stay put for up to 24 hours without a need for touch-ups. Its composition allows it to resist rubbing off on clothes or smearing, which is a common issue with conventional makeup, as well as being water resistant.

3. Good for the Skin

The health benefits of airbrush makeup are numerous. Applied in thin layers, it allows your skin to breathe, reducing the risk of clogged pores—a common problem with heavy makeup. Moreover, airbrush makeup formulations often contain fewer chemicals, making them a safer and more comfortable choice for those with sensitive skin.

4. Versatility

From a soft, natural day look to an intense theatrical act for stage or film, airbrush makeup is incredibly versatile. It can be used not just for foundation but also for creating high-definition eye looks, contouring, and even body art. Its ability to layer smoothly allows makeup artists to explore creative looks that would be challenging to achieve with traditional makeup techniques.

5. Multiple Choice

Airbrush makeup comes in various bases to cater to different skin types and preferences:

• Water-based: Ideal for sensitive skin, it offers a light and breathable application.
• Silicone-based: Known for its smooth and durable finish, perfect for long events.
• Alcohol-based: Dries quickly, suitable for quick applications but can leave the skin feeling dry.
• Mineral-based: Provides a natural finish with minimal synthetic additives.

6. Quantity and Quality

Airbrush makeup doesn’t take long to apply here, making it great for those who value quantity and quality. This is particularly useful for makeup artists working in fast-paced environments like weddings or film sets. Airbrush makeup’s lightweight nature means less time is spent layering product, allowing for a quicker, yet equally stunning, application.

7. Helps Oily Skin

Airbrush makeup is a game-changer for those with oily skin. Traditional makeup often struggles to stay put on oilier complexions, sliding off or breaking down as the day progresses. However, airbrush makeup’s oil-free and water-resistant formula ensures that it remains intact, maintaining a fresh appearance all day without the need for frequent touch-ups. 

8. Great for Photoshoots and Editorial Makeup

The demands of editorial and photoshoot makeup are high, with the need for a look that can withstand varied lighting conditions and long shooting hours. Airbrush makeup is perfectly suited for this task, offering a durable and photogenic finish that won’t fade under the intense lights of a shoot. Its ability to resist moisture and oil ensures that models look their best throughout the day, making it a staple in any professional makeup artist’s kit.

9. Not Just For Foundation

Airbrush technology is not limited to foundation. Its versatility extends to a broad range of makeup products, including blush, bronzer, eyeshadow, and more. This adaptability makes it an excellent investment for makeup artists looking to create complex, detailed looks with precision. 

10. Money Making

For professional makeup artists, proficiency in airbrush makeup can lead to more earnings. Clients often perceive airbrush makeup as a premium service, owing to its superior finish and longevity, and are usually willing to pay more for these benefits. Mastering airbrush makeup not only expands a makeup artist’s service offerings but also can increase appeal to a larger client base.

Cons of Airbrush Makeup

No makeup technique is perfect, whether it’s for traditional makeup, stage makeup, or others. Understanding the limits of airbrush makeup can help you to make a more informed decision about whether airbrush makeup is right for you:

1. Initial Expense

We exclusively offer the Iwata Z Makeup Neo Airbrush Makeup Kit, at a reasonable price of £259.00. To ensure all customers get their value for money, it is made from the most versatile, quality materials to ensure that all airbrushing methods are distributed evenly. With just a few drops, you can achieve a full face of coverage, and with proper maintenance, the equipment can last for many years, proving cost-effective in the long run.

2. Skin Tone Mismatch

Finding the perfect foundation shade is not always easy. Because airbrush makeup is applied in such fine layers, any discrepancy in colour is more apparent compared to traditional makeup. The market has expanded to offer a wider array of shades than ever before, yet finding the exact match can still be challenging.

3. Takes Time To Learn

Airbrush makeup takes skill and practice to perfect. Unlike applying regular foundation, airbrushing demands a steady hand and precise technique to avoid uneven coverage or, worse, visible mistakes. For those new to airbrush makeup, be prepared to invest time in learning and mastering this craft, even though the long lasting effect will be worth it. 

4. Safety First

It is worth knowing that airbrushing has safety risks due to its intricate nature. Incorrect usage can lead to injuries such as eye irritations or respiratory issues if safety protocols are not followed. It’s crucial for anyone using airbrush makeup, especially those new to it, to understand and follow proper safety practices to ensure a safe application every time.

5. Reblending Problems

Once applied, airbrush makeup dries quickly and sets firmly in place. This feature, while great for longevity and durability, also means that adjustments and touch-ups can be difficult. If you’re aiming for a look that might require gradual building or frequent modifications, airbrush makeup may not be the most flexible option. 

6. Flakey Skin

Because airbrush makeup dries rapidly, improper use, such as applying too much product too quickly, can result in flakey skin. 

To prevent this, start with a well-prepared skin surface—clean and exfoliated. Applying a hydrating primer before the airbrush makeup can safeguard your skin from drying and ensure smoother application. It’s crucial to apply the makeup in thin, consistent layers to build coverage gradually without caking.

7. Do Not Use On Scars or Active Breakouts

Scars, active breakouts, and severe discolorations may still require traditional concealing techniques. Airbrush makeup can aggravate rather than masks these imperfections. Setting realistic expectations is important; it can significantly improve appearance but might not completely hide more pronounced blemishes. For those with beauty marks or moles, be sure to know whether these will be aggravated also by airbrush makeup.

8. More Expensive Than Traditional Makeup

Maintaining supplies, such as special foundation formulas, can also carry a higher ongoing cost compared to traditional makeup products. Those new to the makeup profession, or working within a tight budget, might find these costs beyond their budget. 

9. Regular Cleaning

Another aspect to consider is the maintenance of the airbrush equipment. Regular cleaning is essential to keep the device in prime working condition and prevent clogging or malfunctioning, which can affect its performance. Depending on how often you use it, the device will need cleaning regularly or weekly. Therefore, use our guide on how to clean your airbrush kit for the best methods on how to do so.

10. Not Easy for Beginners

For those new to airbrushing, it is advisable to invest time in training and practice. Understanding how to handle the airbrush tool and adjust the application technique is crucial for achieving the best results.

How To Re-Blend Airbrush Makeup

If you find yourself needing to re-blend airbrush makeup, start by lightly misting a setting spray over the area. This adds moisture back into the makeup, making it more malleable and easier to work with. 

Alternatively, using a damp beauty blender or sponge can help smooth out any unevenness without disrupting the rest of your makeup, allowing for a more seamless correction.

What If You Can’t Find Your Shade?

As mentioned, finding the exact match for certain skin tones can provide quite the challenge. The high definition finish that airbrush makeup offers makes even slight mismatches more noticeable. If your perfect shade isn’t available, custom mixing different shades becomes necessary. This skill, however, requires a deeper understanding of colour theory and airbrush techniques to ensure a natural look. Participating in an airbrush makeup course can provide the necessary expertise to mix colours accurately and apply them effectively.

Is Airbrush Makeup Worth It?

Deciding whether airbrush makeup is worth the investment depends on your needs and circumstances. It offers unparalleled longevity, a flawless finish, and is hygienic since it doesn’t require direct skin contact. However, it does come with a learning curve, and the initial setup and maintenance can be more costly than traditional makeup.

In summary, if you’re willing to invest the time and resources, airbrush makeup can elevate your makeup application to professional standards, making it a worthy addition to your beauty repertoire. Learn more with our makeup tutorials.

And if you thought airbrush makeup was expensive, delve into the most expensive makeup brushes ever made.

Feel free to click below and download our bespoke infographic!

Learn more

Discover how airbrush makeup can be used for other makeup tips and purposes, including:

• How to do bridal makeup
• How to do drag queen makeup
• Spice up your Christmas makeup ideas with airbrushing

FAQs

Does airbrush makeup last longer than traditional makeup?

Yes, airbrush makeup typically lasts longer than traditional makeup. It is known for its durability, often able to withstand sweat, tears, and long hours of wear without fading or smudging, making it last up to 24 hours under optimal conditions.

Is airbrush makeup good for mature skin?

Yes, airbrush makeup is suitable for mature skin. It is applied in very fine layers, which helps to avoid settling into fine lines and wrinkles, giving a smooth and natural finish that enhances the skin without emphasising age-related texture.

Summary

Goodley, A., (2021) 10 Most Expensive Makeup Brushes Ever. Rarest.org. [online] Available at: https://rarest.org/stuff/makeup-brushes [accessed 11/07/24]