What's the difference between Airbrush Makeup and Traditional Makeup?

This is one of the most asked questions I get from all my brides and anyone inquiring about makeup services.

So here’s the scoop:

Airbrush makeup is applied through an air gun and compressor, very much like getting a spray tan on your body or if you’ve ever seen how a car is painted with flames on the side. It’s a super lightweight liquid makeup, that’s best for someone who doesn’t wear a lot of foundation and likes a natural feel on their skin.

Here I am, airbrushing the bride.

But seriously, What’s the difference??

When photographed, airbrush makeup looks like skin, because when it shoots out of the gun, the particles are so small and fine that when it lands on your face, it’s like a gazillion little dots. And a photo is made up of a gazillion little dots, so airbrush makeup is mimicking the dots in a photograph, therefore it looks more natural in photos. Get where I’m going with this?

Buuuut, airbrush makeup is unfortunately not for everyone. It does not correct skin texture such as acne, scarring, large pores, deep wrinkles or moles. I wish it did, but it’s not magic, just makeup. 

Airbrush makeup costs more than traditional makeup because of the equipment that is used and the training that is needed. Anyone can pick up an airbrush gun, point it at your face and pull the trigger, but someone with skill can make you look like you’re not wearing layers of caked-on foundation, but still have the full coverage you need.

Traditional makeup is what we use every day. It comes in the form of a liquid, cream, pressed powder or stick. What you would normally see while shopping anywhere for makeup and applied by sponge, fingers or a brush. Since the particles are larger and sit more on top of your skin, it does tend to rub off easier which will make it a little frustrating. It’s easily fixed by touching up your makeup with blotting papers, pressed powder or a sponge so you can continue to drink and party the night away. 

I don’t wanna diss traditional makeup, because with the right foundation formula and application technique, I can make traditional foundation look like skin and the right setting spray will keep it locked into place all night long through the happy tears and dancing.

This is the best option for anyone with acne, scarring, large pores, deep wrinkles or moles as it masks the appearance better than airbrush makeup.

Again, makeup will not be able to correct skin textures, only mask them.

Which method do I prefer to do?

I personally like to do traditional makeup because I’ve really mastered the application technique of making it look like skin and feeling like you’re not wearing anything. Maybe that’s because I stopped doing airbrush for a whole year since Covid happened (ya know, blowing air droplets around when a virus is going on isn’t the safest thing to do)

Both airbrush and traditional makeup are tear, sweat and transfer resistant depending on the type of foundation that’s being used, which is the most important on a special day when you are happy crying. (No ugly crying allowed!!) And no wiping of the face, only dabbing! The only wiping you want to do is at the end of the night when you are removing your makeup.

I hope this explanation helps you in deciding which makeup application you want for your wedding or special event. Like I mentioned before, anyone can pick up an airbrush gun and pull the trigger and spray makeup on your face, but finding the right artist with that special touch is what counts.

Photo Credit: Ali Beck Photography