Airbrush Makeup for Your Wedding: Everything You Need to Know

Whether you’re going for a glamorous, dramatic look or a natural, glowing complexion on your wedding day, you want it to look just as good at the end of the reception as it did when you first put it on that morning. While we love a good high-definition foundation for concealing imperfections and giving you that perfect base for makeup, another option for beautiful coverage and wear is airbrush makeup. It's a popular choice for brides because of its lightweight finish and durable, long-lasting formula, and this type of makeup is a pro makeup artist’s staple for flawless, complete coverage that won’t budge. 

“The benefit of airbrush makeup is that it is long-lasting, and gives a smoother appearance to the skin,” says celebrity makeup artist Nydia Figueroa. “It applies a buildable layer of lightweight makeup, such as foundation, blush, and more.”

If you’re not familiar with airbrush makeup, don’t sweat it. We tapped Figueroa to break down all the ins and outs of airbrush makeup and help you decide if it’s the right choice for your wedding-day glam.  

What Is Airbrush Makeup?

Airbrush makeup is a professional formula and technique that involves spraying foundation directly onto the skin with an airbrush gun. The specially-formulated airbrush makeup is loaded into a handheld device and sprays out with the help of forced air in a fine mist onto the skin. 

The Difference Between Airbrush Makeup and Regular Makeup

Airbrush refers not only to the technique of spraying on makeup with an airbrush gun but also to the formula of the makeup itself. Airbrush makeup tends to be very thin, which is what allows it to pass through the airbrush gun and spray out in very fine particles. Although the formula is thin and runny, airbrush makeup actually tends to be more concentrated in terms of color and coverage.

“Other than the application process, the main difference comes down to longevity,” says Figueroa. “Since it's not applied using conventional methods such as brushes or sponges, you can guarantee that the product spreads evenly on the face and stays put. It prevents any smearing or gaps that could be caused by the bristles of a brush or the absorption of a makeup sponge.”

The Pros of Airbrush Makeup for Your Wedding

There are some undeniable benefits to choosing airbrush makeup for your wedding. We explore some of this makeup style's best qualities below.

The coverage is buildable.

Because airbrush makeup is applied in such a thin layer, it doesn’t sit on top of the skin like traditional foundation. This is what gives airbrush makeup its signature lightweight, buildable coverage that lasts all night long.

It's transfer-proof and lightweight.

When applied in a consistent, even layer, airbrush makeup doesn’t transfer and stays looking and feeling very natural on the skin. Some brides even say airbrush makeup doesn’t even feel like they’re wearing anything at all.  For this reason, airbrush makeup is a great choice for brides who love a more natural bridal makeup look.

It works for mothers of the bride and groom, too.

Airbrush makeup isn't just for the bride—it's for all members of her bridal party. It’s particularly ideal for mature skin, as it tends to look less cakey than regular makeup, which means it's a worthwhile investment for the mother of the bride and groom.

The Cons of Airbrush Makeup for Your Wedding

Here's the thing: airbrush makeup isn't for every bride-to-be. Here, we explore some of the downsides of airbrush makeup to help you decide whether or not this is the best choice for your big-day needs.

It won't give you a glam, full-coverage look.

For some brides, the lightweight finish is a major plus—but others who are used to wearing a full-coverage foundation every day or want that high-glam look on their wedding day, airbrush makeup might not be enough coverage.

It's harder to touch up.

Figueroa also adds that it’s harder to touch up the makeup once it’s done because the long-lasting formula sets instantly.

It's not the best option for dry skin.

Figueroa also cautions against using airbrush makeup on dry or flaky skin, as the fine mist can often attach itself to the dry spots on the face.

You either need to practice with an airbrush makeup tool or hire a pro.

“There is a longer learning curve to the tools required to perform airbrush properly,” explains Figueroa. Before you get married to the idea of airbrushing makeup on your wedding day, make sure it’s something your makeup artist specializes in. 

Airbrush Wedding Makeup Tips

If you're hiring a professional, ask to see examples.

If you’re hiring a makeup artist for your wedding and you’re considering airbrush, ask them if they have any photos in their portfolio that showcase airbrush makeup so you can see the finish.

Do a few tests if you're doing your own airbrush wedding makeup.

Doing your own airbrush wedding makeup? Definitely do a few test runs prior to the big day to get used to the application method, make sure the color is right for your skin tone, and test the longevity.

Of course, if you're going the do-it-yourself route, you'll need to stock up on reputable airbrush makeup system. We like the Mineral Air Complexion Starter Kit ($150), which can be purchased on Amazon. Temptu's offerings are also standouts; in their starter kit ($195), you'll find everything you need to pull off airbrush makeup for your wedding. All you have to do is pair their device with a foundation pod before spritzing on even, just-right coverage (this is a great option for bridal parties, since you can simply swap out the pods to match each VIP's skin tone).

Be absolutely sure that this is the right makeup style for you.

Figueroa suggests upgrading to airbrush makeup if the pros outweigh the cons for you. “It looks amazing in pictures,” she admits. “Just make sure that you have a professional trial with an artist that has been trained in airbrush application.”