Airbrush Makeup

Airbrush makeup is becoming more and more fashionable. Jennifer Aniston. Angelina Jolie. Drew Barrymore. They are all beautiful women whose faces grace fashion magazine covers. Of course they look stunning and youthful, with smooth skin and not a blemish in sight. They look refreshed, as if they just returned from a relaxing day at the spa. It's common knowledge that many stars' images are airbrushed before the magazine goes on the stands. But did you know that airbrushing is not just a computer skill? Many people, not just the stars, are using airbrush makeup to achieve smooth, flawless coverage like that in the fashion magazines. People use it for weddings, the theater, or for a fancy night out on the town. But what about the rest of us? Can anyone use airbrush makeup? What is airbrush makeup exactly, and can it be done at home?

Airbrush makeup is tiny pixels of water and foundation mixed together and sprayed through a wand. It provides smooth, even coverage superior to that of regular makeup. Airbrush makeup does not merely cover up blemishes; it enhances one’s face. In fact, if done right, it gives the appearance of little to no makeup at all! How? Because of the fine pigment size of the makeup as it leaves the airbrush. The result is sheer, smooth coverage.

Airbrush makeup gives the wearer sheer, full coverage. It evens out skin tones and hides dark circles under the eyes. You'll use less makeup but will achieve a better finish. It lasts longer than regular makeup--sixteen hours being the average--without requiring touch ups and without rubbing off. It's hygienic, as the wand never makes contact with the skin. Multiple people can use the same airbrush with no ill effects. The right airbrush kit will allow you to conceal veins on legs and imperfections on other body parts as well. You can even apply stencil tattoos.

Airbrush makeup is more expensive than regular makeup, and is not highly portable. You will not be able to discreetly apply it at the dinner table or carry it to a nightclub. You need space, a power and water supply, and a kit. If you are applying it on your own face, you should close your eyes as often as possible so that you don't spray the product into your eyes. Also, there is not a lot of information about the risks associated with airbrush makeup, specifically inhaling the product into the lungs. You may want to consider wearing a mask during part of the application.

Yes, you can apply airbrush makeup yourself. It doesn’t have to be left up to the professionals. All it takes is an airbrush kit. Or, here's what you need if you want to forgo the kit and assemble the parts yourself: An airbrush wand, sometimes called a “gun;” an airbrush compressor, which allows for soft, continuous airflow; a hose to connect the wand to the compressor, bottled water, and makeup foundation. You may benefit from an airbrush class as well.

Directions vary with each brand of airbrush kit. Bear in mind that these are general guidelines: First, place a few drops of foundation and water into the cup. Close your eyes and use the wand to spray the mixture onto your face and neck. Hold the wand six to ten inches from your face and move the wand in a circular motion. Be sure to keep the wand moving, or you could end up with uneven coverage. After it dries, you may want to apply a second coat. Once that coat is dry, you're done! Finishing powder is unnecessary. 

Airbrush makeup kits are widely sold at various retailers. Costs range from approximately $120 to $600 dollars. Remember, expensive is not always better. Keep in mind your ultimate purpose. Is this kit for yourself only, or for an entire theater troupe? Shop around until you find one that best suits your needs. You'll need to purchase your foundation as well, which can cost around $20.

No, your regular foundation is not recommended for use with an airbrush machine. You can purchase either silicone-based or water-based foundation. Silicone-based is reported to provide slightly better coverage. Blush and eye shadow for the airbrush are also available, though you will need a different brush. Or, you may use your regular blush and eye shadow after your foundation dries.

Who doesn’t want to look their best in a fraction of the time it takes to apply regular makeup? Airbrushing used to be a computer trick, or something that was reserved for the rich and famous, and now it is easily attainable for anyone who wants it. Also consider wearing some silver drop earrings to make yourself shine.