The Difference Between Airbrush Makeup & Traditional Makeup
As makeup artists at Beauty Asylum, we often hear the question, "What is the difference between airbrush makeup and regular makeup?" or even, "What is airbrush makeup?" Whether you're newly engaged or simply looking for the best makeup products, it's important to have a clear idea of the benefits and the disadvantages of both traditional makeup and airbrush makeup. Here’s a quick overview of what you can find below:
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THE APPLICATION
UNDERSTAND THE APPLICATION
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Airbrush makeup is a fine mist of controlled air that pushes out color through a small gun attached to an air compressor. The foundation consistency is thinner than traditional foundation, allowing for a soft mist and steady stream to create an even, seamless finish over the skin. This lightweight foundation sprays onto the face for flawless coverage and long wear, but it can also be applied for a soft, natural look if desired.
Various airbrush products can be used for foundation, bronzer, blush, and highlight—think of it as a fun, modern approach to extended-wear foundation.
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The key distinction between the two is the application method. Traditional makeup is applied with hand tools such as brushes, beauty blenders, or sponges, and can be worked into the skin for an even finish. Coverage can range from a natural, dewy glow to a matte, full-coverage look, depending on the formula. Traditional makeup products like powder, bronzer, and blush can also be used alongside traditional foundation.
AIRBRUSH COVERAGE
GET FAMILIAR WITH THE COVERAGE
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Airbrush makeup often gets a bad rap when it comes to coverage. Some think airbrush only provides a light, natural finish, while others assume it always looks heavy. The truth is, airbrush makeup is incredibly versatile—it all comes down to the artist applying it. A skilled makeup artist can easily adjust the coverage using the trigger on the airbrush gun and the air pressure setting. Whether you’re looking for a sheer, natural glow or full, flawless coverage, airbrush makeup can be customized to fit your needs.It’s not about the product—it’s about the technique!
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Imagine you're using a paint gun to refresh a white wall in your bedroom. The goal isn’t to change the color or apply a thick, heavy coat of paint—it’s simply to smooth out imperfections and bring the wall back to life. Every little mark and ding (think of these as blemishes) becomes less noticeable with a fresh, even layer. Naturally, we want the wall to be perfect and flawless again. It does not mean we want it to be a different color, nor do we want a heavy amount of paint applied. The overall goal is to bring the wall back to life by giving it a fresh look.
The same concept applies to airbrush and traditional makeup. It’s not about masking the skin but perfecting it for a flawless, natural finish. The right technique enhances your features while keeping your skin looking fresh—not heavy or overdone.
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Airbrush Benefits:
seamless coverage,
flawless natural finish
non-comedogenic (it won't clog your pores)
hypoallergenic
light-weight
does not transfer
offers a bond that will stay strong for 6 to 8 hours
Airbrush Disadvantages:
the product doesn't work well with sunburn, excess hair, or dry skin.
The fine mist will pick up any fine hairs or dry skin patches.
touch ups will break down the coverage if it is a silicone-based airbrush formula
AIRBRUSH PRODUCTS
THE DO’S AND THE DON’TS
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We base our application choice on the desired effect the client wants to achieve and the advantages and disadvantages of each technique.
Just like traditional makeup, airbrush makeup offers a range of formulas tailored to achieve different finishes, from a natural glow to full, flawless coverage.
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Silicone-Based: This is the product of choice for brides — it offers light to full coverage, is smudge-proof, long-lasting, and excellent for hiding imperfections.
Water-Based: This formula provides a dewy glow with extended wear.
Alcohol-Based: Waterproof; ideal for Halloween makeup or tattoo coverage.
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The wearability of airbrush makeup is put to the test with my own before-and-after look. Pictured above, you’ll see the airbrush makeup I applied at 8 a.m. before starting my day. My workday included hiking a mountain, crossing rivers, and finishing at a waterfall. The after photo was taken at the end of the day, and the airbrush makeup stayed in place without a single touch-up.
Clients love their airbrush results so much that they often ask which airbrush machine is best for personal use.
I’m wearing Temptu Perfect Canvas foundation in Buff, Matte Bronzer, and Pale Pink Blush. View products used, here
Example 1: Shows the difference between traditional bridal makeup and airbrush bridal makeup after 3 hours of wear, both achieving a natural finish. (Olivia Griffin Photography
Example 2: Shows the difference between traditional makeup and airbrush makeup after 4 hours of wear, both achieving full, flawless coverage. (Top: Ali Elizabeth Photography | Bottom: Shauna Veasey Photography)
AIRBRUSH WEDDING MAKEUP BEFORE AND AFTER
[ before/after bridal gallery HERE ]
Both airbrush and traditional makeup applications are great options for an important event. The main factor for beautiful wedding day makeup is the person behind the service. Ensure your local makeup artist understands both makeup applications and the look you are trying to achieve. During the inquiry stage, ask as many questions as possible. Questions help create a concise line of communication and it makes our job easier as wedding stylists. The Beauty Asylum team put together top questions to ask your professional wedding makeup artist here.
Check out our standard bridal airbrush pricing and find comparable airbrush rates here. Hopefully, this will give you a general idea of the average airbrush makeup price.
If you love this post or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to comment below.
Also, look over our full wedding galleries below with brides that used airbrush makeup for their wedding day. You will be able to see how their makeup look holds from start to finish.
