Makeup is used to embellish our natural beauty just as much as it is used to cover up our flaws. Many people search for the “perfect” makeup brand or tool that will give them a flawless canvas, but the truth is all types of makeup have positive and negative attributes. Sometimes it is simply a matter of preference. Still, it does not stop people from comparing brands. For example, one common question many people seem to ask is if airbrush makeup is better than traditional makeup and vice versa.
Traditional Makeup
Traditional makeup is the use of foundation, powders, or liquids you can use with tools, such as a sponge, brush or your fingers, and apply it to the face. It has a rich, thick consistency, and there are endless varieties. You can choose from oil-free to light or even full coverage makeup.
The Good
- It is less expensive
- You can build the coverage you want until you are satisfied. It does a better job at giving you the most coverage if you have problem areas
- It is long-lasting (can be worn up to 12 hours)
- Self-application is easy
- Contains SPF
- You can easily control how much makeup you want to apply, and what specific areas to focus on the most. For example, you may have more than one texture or shade on your face, wrinkles, or pores
The Bad
- Not as water resistant and it has the tendency to smear on clothing due to the weather or your body’s own moisture thus increasing the need for touch-ups throughout the day
- Although most contain SPF, it can make the face appear whiter in pictures
- Using your fingers, sponges, or brushes to apply the makeup means you are more prone to building bacteria on your skin, which causes breakouts
- It can be tough to conceal imperfections such as scars or pimples
- It can appear cakey when it is not applied properly
- Finding the perfect match for your skin is challenging
Airbrush Makeup
Airbrush makeup is a recent technology that can take care of applying makeup for you with little effort on your part. The only thing there is to do is blend your favorite foundations together.
The machine works by spraying a fine mist of foundation to the skin to give you a natural-looking and even complexion.
The Good
- The foundation is thinner compared to traditional makeup and feels light and breathable on the skin
- It can last all day without the need for touchups
- There is no need to worry about it rubbing off once it is set
- It is non-comedogenic (does not clog pores)
- It is more waterproof
- It is the best option for covering up tattoos and can last up to a week
The Bad
- It is more expensive
- Less easy to manipulate or fix when alterations are needed
- Applying it on your own can be complex
- Works best for skin that is already in great condition
- It may not be an ideal tool for all skin types; specifically for aged skin, those with deep pores or skin with “peach fuzz”
- No SPF
Airbrush makeup receives a lot of unwarranted hype because magazines are notorious for using it on their models. However, editing and Photoshop are widely used in the entertainment industry to perfect a model’s appearance. It is also important to realize that brands are known to compete with one another and state why their products are better.
Bottom line: airbrush makeup is a finer product and makes blending, from your head to your neck, a breeze. Although it can be used for anyone, it works best on skin that is in optimal condition. Traditional makeup is often rich in color and appears opaque. There is a give-and-take with either option, and it will ultimately be up to you to determine what is more beneficial. In the end, makeup is only as good as the artist so remember: it is not what the makeup can do with you, it is what you can do with the makeup.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in any guest post featured on our site are those of the guest author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of Beauty that walks as a whole.
Author bio: Sarah Haskins in a freelance writer from Alabama, where she lives with her 3 cats.
