Airbrush vs. Traditional Wedding Makeup
As New Jersey wedding makeup artists, we receive many questions from brides about airbrush vs. traditional makeup. Airbrush became quite the craze a few years ago, so many brides are aware of it. However, we’ve found that this trend isn’t the best fit for everyone. Find out why our artists prefer traditional makeup—and get some bridal beauty inspo along the way!
Airbrush vs. Traditional: The Basics
It’s no surprise that airbrush makeup, with its satiny finish and long-lasting wear, is popular among brides. After all, you want your makeup to last through a full day of portraits and partying! And, not just last, but look 10/10 the whole way through. But did you know that traditional makeup is just as effective, if not more so?
The truth is that traditional methods have come a longggg way since your mom’s wedding in the eighties. Not only that, but traditional makeup is much more accommodating to different skin tones and types than airbrush makeup. And we get it—the word “traditional” tends to make brides cringe with the thought of orangey, caked-on foundation. But these days, going traditional gives you the freedom to flex your coverage from super light to full glam! Whereas even the most talented artist won’t have the same kind of control with an airbrush.
The Downsides of Airbrush
We asked a few of our Verve on Location artists, Asha, Diana, and Tina, for their thoughts on airbrush makeup. While they acknowledged how beautiful it can look, they all preferred traditional. Here’s why!
Doesn’t Work for All Skin Types
If your skin is very oily or dry, it will be difficult for your artist to achieve the desired finish. The makeup will be prone to flaking and sitting unevenly atop the skin, accentuating texture.
Limited Shades
A skilled makeup artist can blend dozens of personalized shades with traditional foundation. However, the formulation of airbrush makeup doesn’t allow for the same customization. Your artist will be limited to whatever they have, which may not be the ideal match for your skin tone.
Less Coverage
Due to particle size, the finish of airbrush makeup is much lighter. That isn’t always a bad thing! But, if you’re looking for the full coverage that traditional makeup provides, you won’t find it. Airbrush formulations aren’t very flexible, so they’re difficult to blend if you try to apply a second coat.
Hard to Touch Up
Our artists have found that traditional makeup moves well with the skin throughout the day. It wears naturally, and it’s easy to touch up when needed! On the other hand, airbrush tends to crack after long hours of wear. It’s also hard to touch up without becoming patchy.
Unreliable
Airbrush canisters can be finicky and break easily. They also tend to ‘spit’ foundation!
The Bottom Line
The most important thing to remember when having your wedding makeup done is to trust your artist. You wouldn’t tell a doctor which instrument to use or a painter which brushes to select. So, why would you dictate your makeup artist’s tools? Remember that you’ve hired a professional for a reason. Trust that they will make the best decision based on their comfort level and your skin type! Whether that means whipping out the airbrush or going the traditional route, you can rely on their expertise.
Doing some research ahead of your hair and makeup trial? Check out our top 10 tips to be prepared! Or maybe you’re in the market for a reliable team of beauty pros for your New Jersey wedding. If that’s you, look no further than Verve on Location! We’ll come directly to you and your ‘maids for a stress-free experience that will leave you feeling like the most beautiful version of yourself. Get in touch today!
