There are a ton of myths out there about airbrush makeup so let's clear some of them up now!
Myth 1: Airbrush makeup feels heavier/thicker on skin than regular applied makeup
Fact: Airbrush makeup actually feels lighter in most cases on the skin compared to traditionally applied foundation because it's sprayed on to the skin slowly and built up slowly to ensure even coverage. HOWEVER (and this is important!) if your makeup artist is heavy handed applying traditional foundation he/she will also be heavy handed with the application of airbrush makeup. So in other words if your makeup artist likes a heavy/thick coverage on the skin you will get a heavy coverage no matter what application is used.
Myth 2: Airbrush makeup flakes and melts off
Fact: This is absolutely untrue or as my English hubby would say "rubbish!" If your makeup melts off or flakes off it's because your skin was not properly prepped before foundation was applied OR your makeup artist has no idea how to airbrush properly and has applied too much product onto your skin and/or has not bothered to "set" your makeup after the application. In this case, flaking and/or melting of makeup would happen whether you were airbrushed or not.
Myth 3: Airbrush makeup is just a gimmick /a way for makeup artists to charge more for their services
Fact: Airbrush makeup has been around for a very long time. It's not a gimmick. For years, airbrush makeup was mainly used in the film industry and then quickly became a favourite among makeup artists working in the High Definition TV industry. The benefit of airbrushing in an HD environment is that the skin is not touched while the makeup is being applied as the product is sprayed on to the face directly. Traditionally applied makeup uses sponges/brushes to apply the foundation on to the skin and that application 'can' leave marks that are visible when viewing on an HD screen. I say "can" not "does" because if a makeup artist is truly experienced he/she can use traditional application or airbrush application for HD work and get flawless results because they understand how to apply a perfectly flawless look using either application.
So why is it more expensive? The cost of airbrush guns, compressors, airbrush makeup, cleansers and proper airbrush training is expensive. It makes sense that airbrush makeup application should cost more than traditionally applied makeup. It is afterall, an additional skill. Those makeup artists who claim they won't charge you more for airbrush makeup application will likely pad their rates in some other way but either way, you will pay more.
Myth 4: Airbrush makeup is better than traditional applied makeup
Fact: False. Airbrush makeup is no better or worse than traditionally applied makeup. Well applied makeup is well applied makeup. Period. What are the advantages to airbrush makeup? Airbrush makeup is known to have extremely good longevity on the skin and is basically on your skin until you take it off. Professional brand makeup traditionally applied by a professional makeup artist will provide you 12 - 15 hours of staying power. So both options are very good - it just depends on your personal requirements and preference.
My final thoughts and advice...
Airbrush makeup is great and a real "show stopper" at weddings. People often huddle around me as I'm airbrushing the bride because it something different and interesting. If you're curious to try airbrush makeup book a trial and ask for it! It's really an interesting and fun experience. Just remember, with the right makeup artist if you choose not to have airbrush makeup on your wedding day you will also look flawless and gorgeous!
