How To Do Airbrush Makeup For A Smooth, Spotless, And Stunning Base

Be prepared, you’re about to enter the world of flawless base makeup. Airbrush makeup is basically a magic wand that takes away all visible fine lines to give you smooth, camera-ready skin. Airbrush makeup is the secret to achieving the dreamy, glowing skin we see on models and actors. Whether you’re getting glammed up for a wedding, preparing for a photo shoot, or want the perfect base for a special occasion – airbrush makeup will never do you wrong.

You may wonder, don’t you need some special machine to use it? We’ve got you boo. Whether you love experimenting with makeup or are a budding MUA, Nykaa has the best airbrush compressor brand you can use. Fret not, we obviously also have a curation of products that will help you achieve this look without the commitment of buying a machine. Keep reading if you want long-lasting makeup that adds an Instagram filter to your face IRL.

What is Airbrush Makeup

Airbrush makeup is a professional technique used to achieve a flawless base makeup look. The final finish is barely-there and looks super natural, making this perfect for when you want smooth coverage. It is basically like magically misting the foundation onto your skin for even application. It is super lightweight while still providing full coverage, hiding any blemishes or spots on the skin. The best part? It does not look cakey and is almost a second skin. Another plus is that airbrush makeup can last all day and needs no touch-ups so you can go about your day with confidence. It is definitely not something you can wear every day, but a great method to apply foundation for important events and photo sessions.

Advantages of Airbrush Makeup

Here are the top advantages of airbrush makeup:

1. Hygienic: As the foundation is directly applied using a gun, airbrush makeup is a highly hygienic method of applying foundation. It also limits the contact of your skin with makeup brushes and sponges, which can harbour bacteria if not cleaned properly.
2. Long-Lasting: Airbrushed makeup once applied will not budge even after long hours of wearing. It is quite close to being a second skin. Whether you’re out in the sun or dancing the night away, airbrush makeup will never disappoint you and will stay put for hours without needing touch-ups.
3. Flawless Skin: The super smooth and flawless skin achieved through airbrush makeup is unmatched. The application method of spraying on a fine mist of foundation ensures that the product spreads evenly and helps you achieve the complexion of your dreams. It is truly a filtered effect, come to life.
4. Customised Coverage: Airbrushing is super buildable and you can pick the coverage you want. From a sheer finish to full coverage, airbrush makeup can be customised to suit your requirements. Airbrush makeup is also super lightweight so you can achieve the full coverage look without a cakey appearance.
5. Lightweight Feel: If you want full coverage base makeup but hate how heavy regular foundations feel, airbrush makeup is definitely the way to go. You get the best coverage that covers up all blemishes and hides dark spots without wearing layers over layers of makeup. Simply put, this is your best bet to feel fresh and fabulous all day.

How To Do Airbrush Makeup

While the lightweight airbrush makeup is sprayed onto the skin with a machine, you can also master this yourself. While the machine is the best option to achieve this look, you can also try products for this finish. Here’s how to do airbrush makeup – with a compressor and through airbrush-like products.

TEMPTU One Airbrush Makeup Kit

This kit from the popular brand Temptu comes with an airbrush compressor and 3 foundations – perfect for beginners. You can also buy just the TEMPTU Pro SP-40 Airbrush Gun and use your own foundation. Here are some steps and tips to make application a breeze.

• Always make sure you are using an airbrush foundation, which has a liquid formulation. Regular thicker foundations can clog the machine.
• Shake the foundation well and load a few drops into the spray gun. Increase the amount depending on the coverage you need.
• Hold the gun 6-8 inches away from the skin while spraying to ensure even application. Holding it too close to the skin will create a patchy look.
• Begin at the centre of the face and work in gentle circular motions as you go outward.
• Lightly just a setting powder over the foundation. Wait a few moments and finish with a setting spray to ensure longevity.

If you don’t wish to invest in a machine or simply don’t trust your skills. Here are a few products you can try that give a similar lightweight and air-brushed look.

1. Primer

The Smashbox Original Photo Finish Smooth & Blur Primer is a must-have if you want flawless and smooth base makeup. It helps your makeup last longer and protects the skin from damage.

2. Foundation

The viral Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation has a groundbreaking weightless formula that is sweatproof, humidity-proof, waterproof, and transfer-resistant. The hybrid skincare makeup is super hydration and feels cool and fresh on the skin.

P.S. You should definitely also try the Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Powder to set your makeup and the Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray to lock it all in place. Also on our favourites list is the Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Lip Blur in the viral shade Pillow Talk.

3. Concealer

Available in 6 Indian skin-friendly shades, the Lakme Absolute Instant Airbrush Concealer Pen should always be in your bag for on-the-go-touch-ups. To leave a flawless, air-brushed finish that looks just like an Instagram filter – only IRL.

HD Makeup Vs Airbrush Makeup

Now that you are well-versed in what is airbrush makeup, let's explore what HD makeup can do for your skin. Designed to look flawless on camera, high-definition (HD) makeup uses special products that reflect light perfectly and blur any imperfections on the skin. If you have ever wondered how your favourite actor or model has perfect skin all the time, HD makeup is probably the answer. It gives you a smooth, natural finish that looks just like your skin. It is applied using regular brushes and sponges and can appear thicker in person.

Airbrush makeup is applied using a gun in a fine mist and looks ultra smooth on camera as well as in real life. It also requires specialised makeup products and cannot be recreated with regular makeup. Airbrush makeup is also long-lasting, can be worn throughout the day without needing touch-ups and is ideal for both on-camera and off-camera looks. So while HD makeup offers a high-quality finish for the camera, airbrush makeup ensures you look flawless in all scenarios. The one you pick should depend on your preferences and the occasion. Airbrush makeup is usually the top choice for brides on the big day as well as for pre-wedding shoots.

Key Takeaways

Airbrush makeup done using a compressor spray is the perfect way to get a flawless look for special occasions and events where you’re expected to be photographed. You can alternatively use makeup products that offer a smooth and silky surface without the commitment of buying an airbrushing kit. However, it is important to note that airbrush makeup can highlight flakiness and dry patches, making it most suitable for those with natural to oily skin. You should also consider wearing a good primer to provide a smooth base for the foundation.

FAQs On Airbrush Makeup

1. What does airbrush makeup do?

   Airbrush makeup is applied in a fine mist, leaving behind a smooth surface and natural finish.

2. Is airbrush makeup better than regular makeup?

   Airbrush makeup is lightweight and preferred for its appearance on camera, making it ideal for special occasions and photoshoots. Regular makeup can be touched up and is better suited for daily use.

3. What are the disadvantages of airbrush makeup?

   Airbrush makeup requires specialised equipment and foundation, which can get expensive. It is also not ideal for dry or textured skin as it can highlight imperfections.

4. Which skin is suitable for airbrush makeup?

   Natural to oily skin is best suited for airbrush makeup. It can accentuate imperfections, fine lines, and dry texture.