The Difference Between Airbrush Makeup and Traditional

The Difference Between Airbrush Makeup and Traditional

Deciding on the perfect makeup for your wedding day is a big decision. You want to look stunning in photos, but you also want something that will last all day and night. With so many options out there, it's tough to know where to begin. 

Two of the most popular choices are traditional makeup and airbrush makeup, and understanding the difference between airbrush makeup and traditional applications is an important first step.

Traditional Makeup: A Classic Approach

Traditional makeup is what many people think of when they picture wedding day makeup. This technique, honed over many years, uses liquid, cream, or powder products.

These products are applied with tools like sponges, brushes, and beauty blenders. The versatility of traditional makeup allows for varied coverage, from a sheer, natural finish to full-on glamour.

You can build and blend traditional makeup to get your desired level of coverage. For someone who enjoys experimenting with makeup or prefers a hands-on approach, traditional makeup provides a familiar feeling of control.

Pros of Traditional Makeup:

  • Familiarity: It offers a level of comfort and familiarity, particularly if you are accustomed to applying it.
  • Versatility: Provides buildable coverage, easily transitioning from natural to full coverage.
  • Accessibility: Widely accessible in most drugstores and beauty supply stores, this makes it readily available.

Cons of Traditional Makeup:

  • Longevity: Might require more touch-ups than its airbrushed counterpart, especially in humid weather.
  • Application Expertise: Applying traditional makeup flawlessly requires practice, making the skill of the makeup artist a crucial factor in the final result.
  • Photography Challenges: Under high-definition cameras or flash photography, this method could potentially appear heavier.

Airbrush Makeup: A Flawless Finish

Airbrush makeup is growing in popularity for weddings and special events, and for good reason. It utilizes a small, controlled air compressor that sprays a fine mist of lightweight foundation onto your skin, creating a smooth, even finish.

Airbrush makeup is known for its ability to expertly conceal blemishes, imperfections, and even tattoos while looking like a second skin. Celebrities, brides, and even those looking to perfect their everyday look appreciate how this technique offers adjustable coverage from light to full glam. Many are drawn to the smooth, flawless look it provides. The fine mist of airbrush makeup blends seamlessly onto the skin.

Pros of Airbrush Makeup:

  • Lightweight Feel: Many people say it feels like they aren't wearing makeup, as airbrushed makeup provides a natural-looking, buildable coverage.
  • Long-Lasting Coverage: It's highly resistant to sweat, tears, and water, making it a very popular option for brides. This makes it perfect for special occasions when you want your makeup to last longer.
  • Photography Friendly: The fine mist application ensures your makeup looks perfect in photographs.

Cons of Airbrush Makeup:

  • Application Learning Curve: This technique necessitates specialized training and equipment, making it imperative to seek a qualified and experienced airbrush makeup artist. For someone new to the world of beauty, there are affordable airbrush starter kits for around $150. Many find airbrush coverage to be worth the price point.
  • Less Control Over Application: Traditional methods may be more fitting, as it allows for precise, customizable blending tailored to the individual’s preferences and skin type.

Choosing the Right Option for You

The difference between airbrush makeup and traditional makeup isn’t always immediately apparent and can make choosing tricky. There is no single “best" option. So how do you pick? Well, thinking about what's important to you can help. Here are some key questions to consider:

Feature

Traditional Makeup

Airbrush Makeup

Coverage

Highly buildable, ranging from sheer to full coverage

Lightweight but buildable, best for light to medium coverage

Finish

Variety of finishes (dewy, matte, satin)

Typically natural-matte, airbrushed finish can vary based on the formula

Longevity

Can last for several hours; may require touch-ups

Long-lasting; can last for 12+ hours with minimal touch-ups

Cost

Generally more affordable than airbrush

Generally more expensive than traditional makeup application

Best For

All skin types but may need specific products based on individual needs

Typically better for normal to oily skin; not ideal for very dry or mature skin

Are you concerned about your makeup lasting through tears of joy? If longevity is key for you, airbrush might be a good option. This method's staying power ensures you'll look camera-ready. It is also the more expensive option.

Are you on a budget or love the more hands-on approach traditional makeup offers? Then, traditional makeup could be more your style, plus there is more control over the level of coverage. Traditional makeup products can give you a very natural dewy finish when applied correctly.

When choosing between airbrush makeup and traditional techniques, schedule trials with makeup artists experienced in both. A skilled professional will consider your preferences, skin type, the venue's climate, and desired look to recommend the best option for your wedding day.

Do you have dry skin patches that you are worried about your makeup clinging to? Or maybe you are someone who always wants a flawless finish, and you need fuller coverage than a tinted moisturizer or BB cream offers. If you have oily skin, airbrush makeup is a great option because it won’t slide around on your face.

It's important to choose a foundation that works with your skin type, whether you opt for traditional foundation or airbrush foundation. Knowing if you need light coverage, medium coverage, or full coverage will help your makeup artist choose the right foundation makeup for you.

A lot of people don't realize that airbrush makeup is applied using an airbrush gun and air pressure. This helps create a smooth finish that looks great in photos. Make sure to look at the makeup artist's portfolio to get an idea of their airbrush finish and what you can expect your makeup to look like.

Airbrush bridal makeup is becoming a very popular choice for bridal makeup. When you look at wedding photos, you will see why. If you are going to be doing a photoshoot, like engagement photos, you might consider getting your makeup done. This will give you a chance to feel comfortable in front of the camera.

Reach Out to Jeanne’s Hair and Makeup for Help

Choosing between airbrush makeup and traditional makeup for your wedding day is a personal choice. This means weighing the pros and cons while factoring in things like budget, your skin, and how important things like photo readiness and long-lasting wear are to you. 

The good news is there’s really no wrong or right answer when picking. With a bit of research and a conversation with your makeup artist, you’ll be rocking a flawless look on your big day, no matter which one you choose.

Need help figuring out what’s best for you? Want to try it out before making a final decision? Reach out to Jeanne’s Hair and Makeup and we can help you arrive at the perfect solution for you. We offer on-site, mobile hair and makeup services, as well as here in our professional hair and beauty studio. Our mission is to make hair and makeup a fun, easy, outstanding part of your wedding experience, with results you feel giddy about.