The truth about airbrushing

As a professional makeup artist, I have been asked quite often how airbrush works. The airbrush system works in two ways: first, a compressor is used to deliver the foundation to the skin; second, an airbrush gun is used to deliver the tiny fragments of makeup particles floating across the air to land on the skin. This method is the trademark of airbrushing. The texture created using this method is what makes airbrushing unique and very nice on print and television. Airbrushing can either be water or alcohol based.

If you want to try airbrushing — which was first used in 1959 to enhance the looks of actors in Ben-Hur — make sure that you have flawless skin. I do not recommend airbrushing if you have many facial hairs or if you have skin problems like acne, wrinkles or old dry skin because the foundation particles will only stay on top of the skin surface. So if you need a lot of coverage to create the illusion of perfect young flawless skin, then airbrush makeup is not for you. If the artist starts manually touching the face after airbrushing, then it is not airbrushing anymore. Using airbrush means that from start to finish — from the foundation, to the blush and eye makeup — has to be airbrushed to achieve this texture. You do not set airbrush with powders. You have to let the liquid foundation dry to achieve the airbrush texture. If the artist manually touches the face with powder, then it is not purely airbrushing anymore. 

Airbrushes are very expensive but they last for a long time. They also need maintenance after every use. The foundations are quite expensive that is why airbrush makeup may cost more if you request for this service.

“The airbrush can be a wonderful addition to the makeup artist’s kit. It should be viewed as just that — an addition, not a replacement. It certainly can be a useful tool when it comes to producing an even coverage over larger areas.

Always remember that when applying makeup, especially foundation, it is supposed to re-create flawless youthful healthy skin. Makeup should not be obvious because it is supposed to blend with your own natural skin. This is why the cosmetic industry is constantly developing and improving all shades, formulas and colors of foundation so that it will “disappear” on the skin and hide flaws and imperfections.

So find the right formula and technique suited for your own skin type and condition. Remember, you’re supposed to look perfect and fresh.

(Makeup Designory, Los Angeles School of Make-up Inc. or MUD, located in Los Angeles, California, teaches airbrushing. The makeup school is accredited by the US Department of Education.)

Photography by Sara Black • Makeup by chechel joson • Hairstyling by john valle for Loreal Professionel • Model: Danie of Reco Modeling Agency (tel. no. 813-1648; e-mail: recomodels@gmail.com) • Top by Randy Ortiz for Kashieca