Airbrush makeup creates a flawless face – almost as if you took your picture and ran it through Photoshop.

Here’s how it works-  a tiny amount of specialized foundation makeup is mixed with a few drops of water, and then sprayed onto the face with a wand. The result is a sheer, yet full coverage. You end up wearing less foundation, but with a flawless finish. It even hides under eye circles and rosacea.

Tools for At-Home Airbrush Application

-airbrush compressor

-airbrush wand (sometimes called a pen)

-hose (connects the wand and the compressor)

-makeup foundation

-bottled water

First time users can get this equipment in a kit. After that, all you will need is the foundation. Expect to pay from $120 to $600 or more as your initial investment. Once you’ve purchased your kit, the only further cost is foundation, which can be about $20. Some companies are making smaller compressors, which are easier for home use and for travel.

How to Apply

  1. Place a few drops of foundation into the designated cup, along with a few drops of water. (Each brand will have its own instructions telling you specifically how many drops of each to use.)
  1. Hold the wand about 6 to 10 inches from your face, and spray the mixture in gentle circles over your face and neck. Never hold the wand in one place. Keep it moving. And don’t spray it into your eyes. Keep your eyes closed if you can.
  1. Let it dry. If you want, you can apply a second coat. After that’s dry, you’re good to go. No need for finishing or setting powder.

What Kind of Foundation to Buy

Airbrush makeup foundations come in two types: silicone-based and water-based. Many professionals recommend the silicone, saying that it creates a slightly more flawless look. You need to purchase dedicated airbrush makeup – you can’t use your regular foundation in these machines.

Blush and Eyeshadow

You can buy airbrush-ready blush and eyeshadow, although that may require the purchase of a special nozzle for your wand. But once your basic foundation is dry, there’s no problem using your regular powder blush and eye makeup.

Airbrush Advantages

  • Once airbrushed, you are good to go for up to 10 or 20 hours, with an average of around 16 hours. It won’t rub off on anything or disappear into your pores.
  • If you’re sharing the makeup – at a wedding, for example – the airbrush system is sanitary, since it never actually touches the skin.
  • Some of the kits and foundations can be used on legs, to conceal veins and discolorations. That means no panty-hose, ladies!
  • Special effects, such as stencil tattoos, are easily applied.

Airbrush Disadvantages

  • It’s expensive, especially at first.
  • Applying the makeup is time consuming and requires the equipment, a power supply, a water source, and enough space.
  • If you’re applying it on yourself and you’re alone, you’ve got to do at least parts of the application with your eyes closed. You don’t want to get the product in your eyes.

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Dorey Duncan Scott Senior Litigation Paralegal
Hi! I’m Dorey Duncan Scott, a mother of three, wife and fashion entrepreneur. I started my career in fashion back in the early 90’s when I did print, still and runway modeling. I studied Fashion Merchandising, Music Business and Marketing, while also obtaining certificates in such industry-necessary areas such as make-up, styling and runway choreography. In addition, I had work as a spokesmodel for several brands, appearing in print and in person. As a former model, turned senior litigation paralegal, artist manager and on-air personality with a passion for fashion, beauty, and personal development, I bring a unique combination of style, strategic thinking, and legal expertise to my work. My years navigating the legal world have sharpened my attention to detail, while my experience and passion for fashion, beauty, and personal development drives my desire to help others feel empowered and help them in their journey toward self-empowerment. My experience in the fashion world has taught me the power of confidence. 
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