The airbrush vs. traditional foundation debate is a hot one among brides. If you’re still deciding which look is best for you, today is your lucky day. We recruited the help of an expert makeup artist who is breaking down all of the ins, outs, pros, and cons of airbrush foundation. Allison Roth has over 25 years of experience in the beauty industry in both New York and Pittsburgh, and she’s one of our favorite local MUAs (find her in the Burgh Brides Vendor Guide!). Here is she guest posting on what you might want to consider when determining the best wedding day foundation choice for YOU!
From Allison…
When deciding on airbrush or traditional foundation, there is no simple answer. All foundations can look beautiful when applied correctly. But here are some commonly asked questions and things you might want to take into consideration!
Where did airbrush come from?
Airbrush makeup is not new. The film industry has been using it for special effects and specialty makeup for many years. It was first used on the movie “Ben Hur” to give Charlton Heston and the actors natural looking but muscular, tanned bodies. It didn’t become the “norm” until high definition television was developed. Because high def shows every.single.detail., you could actually see the brushstrokes of heavily applied foundation. Airbrush foundation was used to blur out any imperfections and look flawless on camera. This soon translated to everyday folks who were being filmed and photographed.
Why is airbrush makeup great for brides?
A bride needs that perfect balance between what looks good on camera and what looks good in person. Airbrush fits the bill. It’s not that airbrush foundation is better per se but it does look flawless both on camera and in person. It is also really water resistant, and has great lasting power. This is why it has been the go-to for brides. Personally, I find it to be so much quicker to apply as well. When working with a group of 10 bridesmaids, this can be very helpful!
What are the different types of airbrush foundation and how do I know which one is best for me?
There are three different formulations of airbrush makeup: silicone-based, water-based and alcohol-based. Alcohol-based is truly the only 100% waterproof airbrush makeup. It is ideal for tattoo coverage, but it can be too drying for the face. The other formulations are also very water resistant, however (perfect for combating those wedding day happy tears)!
Water-based will give a matte to satin finish to the skin, while silicone-based will give it a satin to dewy finish. Adding other products, however, can alter the final outcome so that a custom look can be achieved.
How do I know if airbrush foundation is for me?
If you don’t want to feel like you’re wearing makeup – and if it’s done properly – airbrush is for you. Other than that, it is going to depend on your skin, the formulation, the product, and the makeup artist.
If your skin is dry or flaky, airbrush can be the better choice. Yes, you should be exfoliating, but there are cases of over-tanning and medications when this can’t be helped last minute. Brushes will “pick up” the skin and the makeup can look patchy and uneven, whereas airbrushing will mist right over it flawlessly.
If your skin is normal or oily, you can use either airbrush or traditional; the formulation and your own skin’s needs will be the determining factor.
Airbrush makeup really doesn’t need a primer, so you’re skipping a layer and actually wearing less makeup. If you don’t like a lot of product on your skin, this can be a good thing.
Most clients choose airbrush not only for the flawless finish but for the fact that it is a fine mist and the skin comes through, making the look more natural. Airbrush should be misted in fine layers. It should not feel heavy, unless that’s the look you’re going for. Even when covering blemishes and flaws, you still should not feel like there is A LOT of makeup on your face if the airbrush is applied properly.
Is there an instance where traditional is better than airbrush?
If you have peach fuzz or velous hairs on your face, you might want to go for traditional foundation. Airbrush tends to sit on top of the little hairs, making them more look more prominent, especially after the setting powder.
There you have it – the differences between airbrush and traditional foundation and why you might consider each for your wedding day. Which look will you be going with? Comment below and let us know! After the wedding day, be sure to upload a photo of your gorgeous face and tag #burghbrides and @burghbrides so we can see how flawless you looked!
