Have you ever seen someone on TV or in a movie with absolutely flawless makeup and wondered what kind of magic made that happen?
Chances are it’s the result of airbrush makeup which uses a small airbrush to distribute a fine mist of makeup on your skin for the ultimate, even coverage. You may have seen one of these little sprayers wielded by a makeup professional. Makeup airbrushers started really being utilized in the film industry in the 1960’s and 70’s to apply both regular and special effects makeup.
Today, they’ve trickled down into the mainstream and gained popularity for special occasions and photoshoots. Now, they’re becoming more convenient and accessible so you can have amazing airbrushed makeup to wear every day from your own home!
How is airbrush makeup different from traditional makeup?
Professionals and makeup loyalists land on both sides of the traditional vs. airbrush makeup debate. There are advantages to both, but since we already know the drill when it comes to traditionally-applied makeup, let’s look take a look at some of the benefits airbrushed makeup has to offer!
Straight Up Flawless Coverage
Perhaps the biggest boast of airbrush makeup is that it literally gives you that “airbrushed look.” The fine mist covers blemishes, scars, dark circles, hyperpigmentation and rosacea with a weightless makeup. Plus, it’s buildable, so you can apply a light layer for everyday wear or a little more for evenings or when you need a little more coverage.
Looks More Natural
Because it’s sprayed on, rather than applied with sponge, airbrush makeup doesn’t look heavy or cakey and doesn’t settle into fine lines or creases. It also creates a seamless transition from your face to your neck and chest without having to be expertly blended.
It’s a Time Saver
Rather than applying and blending a foundation and concealer, you could actually have your makeup done in a matter of seconds! The future is now, ladies!
Long-Lasting Wear
Because airbrush makeup is often used for situations that require it to last a while, most of it is formulated for hours-long wear with minimal touch ups. Some are even waterproof, so you can cry through your wedding and still look amazing in those candid hashtagged photos.
Okay, I’m sold. How can I try airbrush makeup?
If you’re feeling timid at the prospect of busting out an airbrush gun on your own, you can always go see a makeup professional to complete the look and walk you through it.
Pro Tip: Considering airbrush makeup for a special occasion? Do a consultation and a test run prior to your big day to make sure it’s the right look for you!
But, what if you want airbrush makeup for everyday wear? Chances are, you’re not in a position to sit in a makeup chair every day. Lucky for you, at-home airbrushing kits are becoming more readily available and easy to use for even the least cosmetically-inclined.
I tried out this system from Mineral Air and loved it! Admittedly, I was slightly concerned at the possible difficulty of using the hand-held system, but I was amazed at how easy it was to use! Nothing like professional air brush systems which have a bit of a learning curve. And after a few uses, I found myself getting faster and faster at applying.
Now let’s talk coverage. It was amazing! I have been struggling with melasma from my recent pregnancy and birth of my youngest, who is totally worth looking like I have deep dark bags around my eyes, except it’s actually patches of dark pigmentation from those lovely hormones that are still very active! To combat dark spots, I apply a final application of the Porcelain shade around my eye area conceal the melasma, which is a slightly lighter color than the Light shade which I use for my entire face and vou la! It leaves everything bright and even in a matter of seconds!
So I have fallen in love with the Mineral Air system, and I couldn’t wait to share it with the rest of you! I’m excited to announce that I’ll be adding it to my shop!
While regular airbrush makeup has a lot of its own advantages, there are a few reasons I particularly love this system enough that I want to share it with you gals!
- 4-in-1 Makeup Formula - Mineral Air makeup is actually four products in one: a primer, concealer, liquid makeup and hydrating serum! As a busy working mom, I don’t always have time to do a full foundation job on my face. This is an easy way to get a flawless finish in seconds for those days that I want or need the extra coverage!
- Customizable Color - This kit includes three shades of foundation determined by one of six skin tone categories. That means you get three different shades to mix and create your perfect color match! It’s a great way to transition your makeup from winter to summer without having to shop for new shades. I use (light) for my entire face and use (porcelain) for my eye area.
- Convenient - Unlike classic airbrush systems, this one is small, portable and cordless (and rechargeable) so you don’t have to sacrifice precious countertop real estate to store it, and you can take it on the go with you!
- Easy to Use - Airbrush makeup can seem intimidating, but this one is really no different than spraying a hydrating mist on your face or hairspray on your hair. Plus, the long-lasting formula is created to last up to 10 hours, so there’s little to no retouching required!
Is airbrush makeup bad for my skin?
Classic airbrush makeups can be water, alcohol or silicone based, which aren’t necessarily bad for skin.
The reason I’m really excited about Mineral Air is that is uses a mineral based makeup, which not only goes on smoothly, but is great for all skin types including those with sensitive skin. As a bonus, it’s formulated so that it won’t irritate eyes which means even you contact wearers can use it!
Unlike traditional foundation, Mineral Air makeup uses micronized mineral spheres that provide breathable coverage and won’t clog pores. If you’re not a fan of the feel of heavier makeup, this system would be great to give you lightweight coverage.
It also boasts some skincare benefits to actually help your skin with each use. It includes nourishing hyaluronic acid, a powerful humectant that binds moisture to skin for ultra-hydration. It also contains Vitamins C and E which include antioxidants to help fight free radical damage and signs of aging. Plus, Mineral Air makeup is Paraben free, Talc free, Phthalate free, Mineral Oil free, Gluten free, BHT and BHA free, Synthetic Dye free, and Synthetic Fragrance free!
Start With Skincare
The best thing about airbrush makeup is that it’s lightweight and lets your natural beauty shine. While it can give you beautiful coverage, a truly flawless face starts with great skincare so you have a smooth canvas for applying makeup.
Here’s some of my favorite products for getting your skin makeup ready!
Alana Mitchell Foaming Pumpkin Cleanser
I’m happy to bring you my lovely cleanser created with all skin types in mind! This formula includes natural ingredients to soothe skin with anti-inflammatory properties and encourage healing. It also hydrates while it cleanses and refines pores, and it fights signs of aging so you’re left with healthy, glowing skin!
Dermalogica Gentle Cream Exfoliant
This gentle and refreshing exfoliant uses botanical extracts to remove dead skin cells and impurities to smooth the surface of your skin. It also works as a hydrating mask to nourish skin and infuse it with moisture. Use this 2-in-1 twice a week for radiant, supple skin.
Alana Mitchell Daily Vitamin C Moisturizer
I created this multi-benefit moisturizer so that even those with sensitive skin can enjoy it! It harnesses the power of vitamin C and natural ingredients to fight free radical damage and reduce signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles. It also features hyaluronic acid which grabs moisture and delivers it deep into skin’s layers making it your perfect everyday moisturizer!
Image Skincare Prevention+ Daily Matte Moisturizer SPF 32
Before you apply any makeup, make sure you to layer on your daily SPF protection! This moisturizer is ideal for daily wear as it offers broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection while absorbing excess oil and keeping shine at bay and give your face a smooth finish. Great for all skin types and won’t clog pores!
Epicuren Lancer Gel
Got pesky blemishes? Spot treat those suckers with this soothing and effective gel. It includes natural ingredients to neutralize acne-causing bacteria and help fight future breakouts. Reduce the appearance of pimples and heal skin so you’re left clear and blemish-free.
Final Thoughts
Airbrush makeup is an excellent way to get flawless coverage, and today’s formulas can even benefit your skin. But, ultimately, you have to try different makeup methods and choose the one that makes you look and feel your best! And, make sure you keep practicing good skincare so no matter which makeup you choose, your natural beauty will always be your best feature!
Have you tried airbrush makeup? Are you considering trying it for an upcoming occasion? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section!
