Top 10 FAQ About Airbrush Makeup

Airbrush makeup has become increasingly popular over the years and as a result, people are more curious about the process, its results, and whether or not this is the ideal choice when getting their makeup professionally done.

I have compiled a list of the most common questions I receive about airbrush makeup which I will share with you along with the answers I provide to my clients.

- What is airbrush makeup exactly?
  - Airbrush makeup is a technique applied with the use of an air compressor machine and an airbrush gun applicator as opposed to “traditional” makeup which is applied with the use of makeup brushes. Typically, most makeup artists only airbrush the foundation on the skin although it is possible to airbrush other areas of the face including blush on the cheeks and even liquid eye shadows.
- Which is better in your professional opinion, airbrush or traditional makeup?
  - This is a great question and one that I am asked quite often. I never like to say one method is absolutely better over the other because it truly depends on the individual and the overall look we are looking to create for the complexion. I think that airbrush is definitely the ideal choice for someone who never wears makeup as it is super natural looking while still lasting all day. If you wear makeup on a daily basis and never tried airbrush makeup, I always encourage at least experiencing it for a makeup trial as it provides flawless results and does not feel like you are wearing makeup.
- How long will the airbrush makeup last?
  - Both airbrush and traditional makeup are built to last the entire day without any real touch ups. Depending on your skin type, exactly how long it will last could vary but you could expect lasting results even if you got your makeup applied very early that morning. I would say that I do believe airbrush makeup is going to last slightly longer than the traditional makeup due to the fact that it is a more sheer and lightweight formula. The formula is also water resistant.
- Do you still use primer, powder, and/or setting spray with the airbrush application?
  - Although I was told primers, setting sprays, and even powders are not a necessity when using airbrush makeup, I still always use all three products in conjunction with airbrush makeup because I believe that any product I can use to extend the wear of the makeup, I will want to use it as it provides what I call extra makeup insurance. In other words, all these products will provide makeup longevity throughout the day. So the answer is no, it might not be required but yes, I absolutely will use primer, powder, and setting spray with an airbrush makeup application.
- Which airbrush machine do you use?
  - I had done a lot of research before I invested in a machine and find Dinair Airbrush Makeup to be the best. I like the system and their actual makeup as it applies smoothly, lasts all day, and I can custom blend the colors too if I need to which provides a client with a true customized foundation match.
- I have sensitive skin, does airbrush makeup cause breakouts?
  - Since the airbrush makeup is applied gently on the top surface layer of the skin as opposed to traditional makeup where the brush directly brushes the foundation into the skin, I definitely think the airbrush makeup is the better option because of how it is applied and much less actual product is applied onto the skin.
  - It is always wise to set up a makeup trial and test the airbrush makeup to ensure your skin does not react to it but I have found that in all my years of doing makeup, I have never had a client complain after a trial that the makeup did not work with their skin or that it caused a reaction.
- What foundation do you prefer on yourself personally?
  - For my every day makeup, I prefer to use a sheer liquid foundation or tinted moisturizer as opposed to airbrush makeup as it is just quicker for me to apply on myself than setting up my airbrush machine every day and I just feel as thought I have more control of the product than airbrushing myself (it’s easier for me to apply to others than myself in other words). However, I have played around with the airbrush makeup and do very much like the results so for a special event, I will use this from time to time for an extra flawless finish, especially during the spring/summer months when there can be more humidity.

- I don’t have the best skin, will airbrush makeup cover all my imperfections?
  - No matter how much coverage is needed, I will still use concealers first to cover up any imperfections and then airbrush over it. This is a great combination as the concealer will cover up the areas that need a higher concentration of makeup while the airbrush makeup locks everything in and smooths over the surface of the complexion.
- How much coverage does airbrush makeup provide?
  - When done correctly, airbrush makeup is meant to be very smooth looking by providing a flawless finish without the appearance of wearing any makeup. Your complexion should still look like your skin with an overall effortless look.

Is airbrush makeup more natural looking than traditional makeup or vice versa?
- Although I can apply both airbrush makeup and traditional in a natural way, at the end of the day, airbrush makeup will always be the more natural choice. This is due to the actual application technique and the fact that you end up wearing much less product on the face as opposed to a traditional makeup application.

Still have a question regarding airbrush makeup? Please feel free to contact me directly as I would be happy to answer any additional questions you might have along with giving you my professional and personal recommendation on what is best for you and your skin! 🙂

How to Cover Up Under Eye Circles and How to Use a Color Corrector

Posted on September 24, 2018 by melimakeupartist under concealer, face makeup, makeup, makeup artistry, makeup techniques, makeup tips, YouTube

Here is a quick video going over ways to cover up under eye circles. I discuss this topic by introducing two different demonstrations. The first is the easier demo for someone who does not have much darkness but still would like to address this area of the face. The second demo is specifically for someone who has more prevalent dark circles to cover up and needs to address this makeup issue more seriously.

In order to take your concealer skills to the next level, a color corrector will need to be incorporated into your daily makeup routine. Color correctors may add some confusion and be a source of intimidation but I explain the proper use in the video along with what shade you should be looking for.

By the end of the video, you will learn how to eliminate the appearance of dark under eye circles along with understanding the purpose of using a color corrector.

How to Choose the Right Blush and the Blushes in My Makeup Kit

Posted on September 17, 2018 by melimakeupartist under blush, makeup, makeup artistry, makeup techniques, makeup tips, YouTube

In this video, I share all the blushes I keep in my professional makeup kit and how I go about choosing the right blush for my clients based on their personal coloring (skin tone, eyes, and hair). For beginners and most people in general, I do recommend a powder blush as opposed to a cream formula because it is much easier to apply. I also tend to stick with matte blushes only (I explain why in the video) so this is something to look for the next time you go makeup shopping. The blushes featured in the palettes are all by MAC:

Light to Medium skin tones:

Sincere (neutral, light apricot beige) – Ideal as a starter blush for anyone who has never worn blush before, anyone who has pink undertones to their skin, or anyone looking for a blush that won’t add too much color to the face as this will appear very natural on the skin
Melba (salmon warm pink) – I use this the majority of the time, it is universally such a beautiful shade that adds color to the face but not overly bright
Peaches (coral) – Great for those who have warm coloring and also a nice pick if you have red hair
Mocha (medium cool pink) – I like this for a person who has cooler coloring, such as a person with blue eyes and dark hair
Fleur Power (bright warm pink) – This works on most skin tones but especially great for someone who has a medium to olive skin tone or a tan. This will show up nicely, adding a little more color than some of the other shades listed above.
* Fashion Frenzy (hot bright pink) – I always like to keep a hot pink for those who love to wear blush and want their cheeks to really pop. This works on pretty much all skin tones since it is highly pigmented and shows up very easily.
[*Discontinued shade similiar to the MAC’s Dollymix blush]

Dark skin tones:

Shadester (brown beige) – This shade is actually meant to be used as a contour color but it can be used as a blush, more so on a medium skin tone
Raizin (deep warm auburn) – One of the best colors to use on a darker complexion, the color is richly pigmented and looks natural once applied
Loverush (deep red wine) – This also has a nice pigmentation but appears brighter on the cheeks, very pretty
** Sweet as Cocoa (natural bronzy color with gold shimmer) – This is a natural looking blush that compliments a darker complexion nicely while also serving as a bronzer on medium skin tones
** Format (deep shimmery bronze) – A popular blush on a darker complexion that provides a shimmer and will appear fairly naturally, not too bright
** Ambering Rose (red and gold shimmer) – I would say this is universally a nice color for any complexion because it warms up on the skin and really brightens the complexion because it has red and gold in it
[*** Blushes that contain a shimmer and are not matte]

I also mention a shade that is not in a palette, it is a single blush by NARS – Sex Appeal. I love this color on exceptionally fair skin tones. Although it looks like a very pale color, it actually pulls up beautifully on the cheeks. It is a very light, pale peach pink color. I also always like to use this on someone who is fair with red hair or strawberry blond hair.

I strongly believe that blush can enhance everyone’s complexion so finding the right shade is the first step. In a future video, I will demonstrate the application along with the exact placement.

Best Lip Pencil for Full Lips & Nude Lip Application Demo

Posted on September 17, 2018 by melimakeupartist under lip pencil, lipstick, makeup, makeup artistry, makeup techniques, makeup tips, YouTube

I created a video to discuss what lip pencil I think works best if you have full lips along with sharing a quick nude lip application demo showcasing two of my favorite lip products that I use on a daily basis. The NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in “Bahama” paired with Chanel’s Ultra Wear Lip Colour lip stain in “Merry Rose.”

How a Makeup Artist Can Change Your Life! – 5 Reasons to Hire a Professional

Posted on September 12, 2018 by melimakeupartist under bridal makeup, eye makeup, face makeup, makeup, makeup artistry, makeup techniques, makeup tips

No matter what your background in makeup is, whether you are someone who doesn’t leave the house without makeup, perhaps one who defines wearing makeup as simply applying mascara every once in a while, or you just flat out never wear makeup whatsoever (don’t worry, I’m not judging), the value of hiring a professional makeup artist can be life changing.

Makeup artists are typically hired in situations where a person is going to be photographed a significant amount, such as a wedding–which for many can be the most photographed day in a person’s lifetime. It is also extremely beneficial to hire a makeup artist for head shots or for promotional purposes that will be featured on a website or advertisement. For movies and television, a makeup artist on set is without question.

These examples provide many instances in which hiring a makeup artist is the way to go versus applying makeup yourself–even if you happen to know the basics of makeup application or wear makeup on a daily basis. I tell people all the time, I was always one to apply makeup everyday but it was not until I pursued it professionally that I really knew what I was doing. My evidence of this is when I look back at old photos and see a world of visual difference between applying makeup myself and then applying it myself once I became a true master of my craft.

Here I will explain in further detail a few of my top reasons why it is essential to hire a makeup artist for your next big event, photo shoot, or even for application techniques for your everyday use. If you are having second thoughts due to cost or simply thinking, “it’s only makeup,” then this article will definitely shift your perspective into the direction of going professional.

Attention to Detail – Makeup artists are pretty much natural born visual perfectionists. I can at least speak for myself and assure you it starts at a young age. I was the type of person as a child, if I was creating a poster and the title was not straight or centered enough, I would feel the need to fix it immediately due to my innate attention to detail and need for it to be aesthetically pleasing. Makeup artists have an eye to really apply makeup in a way that is precise and looks good from all angles. The end goal is to also create facial symmetry such as drawing eyeliner at the same thickness/length on both sides.

Long-wearing Products – A true makeup artist will not only have a very well stocked makeup kit of the best products in the industry and an eclectic assortment of colors but also products with the best performance to ensure that the makeup will last all day with little to no touch-ups. This is very important, especially in situations where the makeup is applied very early in the morning and expected to last until the very end of the night. Makeup artists will use the correct products to extend the longevity of the makeup so you will not have to worry about it disappearing a few hours later into the day.

The Perfect Match – Aside from the actual makeup application, I would say there is also confusion surrounding makeup when it comes to the color selection process. Being able to match foundation or simply choosing the best colors to suit a person’s skintone, hair, and eye color is often times a challenge for most people so leave it up to your makeup artist to know what shades best suit your personal coloring along with coincide with your style preferences.

Photo Ready – I never fail to mention to people that makeup can very well make or break a photo. The way the makeup appears in person and in a photograph can actually vary so this is where a makeup artist comes in to know how much makeup is needed to really photograph well. A person should look like their best photographed self once their makeup is applied professionally.

Accentuate Your Best Features – As a makeup artist, I would say this is the most important reason as to why hiring a professional makeup artist is a necessity. From ample experience working with all ages and races paired with a skilled eye, makeup artists can look at a face and know what to do to best accentuate a person’s facial features. In addition, if a client has specific requests such as making the eyes look bigger, defining the cheekbones, evening out the complexion–you name it, you better believe a makeup artist has the solution and will make it happen! 😉

I hope this has provided some valuable insight as to the many benefits of hiring a professional makeup artist. They are skilled at what they do to execute a flawless finish while also committed to creating a personalized look to make you look and feel like the best version of yourself!

NARS Climax Mascara Review and Demo – Are You Ready to Climax?

Posted on September 7, 2018 by melimakeupartist under eye makeup, makeup, makeup artistry, makeup techniques, makeup tips, mascara, YouTube

I announced on my Instagram yesterday that I am very excited that I finally received the new NARS Climax mascara in the mail yesterday. I had been wanting to try this since it came out and just got a chance to wear it for the first time today. I recorded a short YouTube video which is also posted onto this blog to show a demo of the mascara along with a review.

The NARS Climax mascara is $24 and I purchased it from the NARS website directly. If you are in need of a new mascara, I would highly recommend it! The mascara gives a voluminizing effect that provides length, thickness, and a curl to my natural lashes. I would always recommend using a mascara primer prior to mascara application (in this video, I skipped it so I can test the results without it) but my lashes still looked pretty nice after I applied two coats!

How to Apply False Lashes on Yourself – Everything You Need to Know!

Posted on September 3, 2018 by melimakeupartist under eye makeup, false eyelashes, makeup, makeup artistry, makeup techniques, makeup tips, YouTube

Here is the first actual makeup video I posted on my makeup channel last night. This is a quick how to video on how to apply false lashes by yourself. I break down the steps in terms of how to prep the false lashes, how to apply them effortlessly, and just some general makeup tips that are helpful when applying them yourself.

In terms of supplies, you will only need:

A pair of false lashes (I am using Ardell Wispies in this video)
Duo Striplash Adhesive (this is the eyelash glue, buy the white tube with the blue writing, this has the clear version)
Black eyeliner pencil (or if you prefer gel or liquid liner, these will work too. Colored eyeliners are also okay to use for this step if you choose to)
A pair of scissors
Mirror

Applying false lashes by yourself definitely takes some practice, so don’t be discouraged if it takes you some time to get the hang of it! Practice and patience, like most things in life is all it takes.

Meli Makeup Artist – I Have a YouTube Channel Now

Posted on September 3, 2018 by melimakeupartist under makeup, makeup artistry, makeup brushes, makeup techniques, makeup tips, makeup trends, YouTube

So it’s official, I created a makeup YouTube channel! This project has been an ongoing one listed on my summer to do list and summer might be coming to an end but at least I finally can check this off the list!

Here is the link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKvPG7wazLrCG1vxhG8APig
Short link: https://bit.ly/2oynAqh

Last night I uploaded two videos so far. The one I posted on this blog is just a quick introduction video. The purpose of my channel is to teach people the basics about makeup application, techniques, products I use, and also address any questions that people ask me about makeup. Over time, I have met people who are quite intimidated by makeup (hence they hire me the professional) and that is why I want to be able to teach people about makeup, especially the people who never wear makeup. The best thing is, it is never too late to learn and pick up a trick or two!

This will mainly serve as a hobby as does this blog, both creative outlets in which I can share my passion and profession with my friends, family, clients, and anyone who is interested to learn more! Thanks for tuning in and thank you for connecting! 🙂 Also, please do not hesitate to send me makeup questions at any time (that’s what I am here for)!

My Makeup Process of Creating the Right Look

Posted on April 24, 2018 by melimakeupartist under bridal makeup, Instagram, makeup, makeup artistry, makeup techniques, makeup tips

I just recently posted this information on my Instagram but thought this was a great post for aspiring makeup artists, clients, and other artists to read. I wanted to share a more in-depth way I go about creating the right look for my clients and brides. My goal is to fully understand the desired look and then go through the design process through my makeup artistry to get to the final look at the end.

Bridal look I created for Fatima

– I first ask if there are any photos of makeup styles to look at prior to the makeup application to get a general idea of the look that I am asked to create. If there are no photos or ideas, I will proceed with asking some thorough questions to ensure I understand makeup preferences and the overall vision.

– I like to also learn in advance how much makeup one wears on a regular basis (if any) so I can gauge the comfort level of how much makeup to apply. For more natural and clean looks, I will opt for a neutral color palette and make sure there’s a smooth blend with the application. I never want someone to feel they are wearing too much makeup as often times, less is more.

– I will ask very specific questions regarding: Placement (ex: Do you wear top and bottom liner normally?), Color preferences (ex: Do you feel more comfortable in warmer tones such as golds for the eye shadows?), and Intensity (ex: Do you like a more dramatic look or more natural?)

– In situations people are meeting me for the first time and I’m designing a look in advance for an event, I will show as I go. Meaning I will show with a mirror the steps of the makeup application as I am applying the makeup to make sure we are both on the same page. As I mentioned earlier, I really take the time to listen and understand so I can translate this information into the final look at the end.

– Once I’m completely done with the makeup application, I will fully examine everything from every angle. Then I will tweak anything if needed and make any changes. I essentially edit (or fine tune as I like to call it) and really blend everything more thoroughly. I’ll then record everything I used along with the exact placement so I can replicate the look in the future for the day of the event.

This pretty much explains my creative process behind how I go about makeup artistry from client to client. Aside from having the right skills, I think it is a necessity to truly get to know your client and really understand what they are looking for from the very beginning.

Duo Eyelash Adhesive – Black vs. Clear Glue -Does it Make a Difference?

Posted on November 26, 2017 by melimakeupartist under eye makeup, false eyelashes, makeup, makeup artistry, makeup techniques, makeup tips

When it comes to applying false eyelashes, Duo Eyelash Adhesive is hands down the eyelash glue of choice by professional makeup artists. There are a few others that exist but there is nothing that can compare to this brand.

Now this is where things get a little more tricky. Duo offers a clear glue (it goes on white and dries clear) or a black glue. So which is best?

The reason behind providing the choice of a black glue is that when it dries, it gives the appearance of wearing black eyeliner. This saves a step from applying actual eyeliner if it already looks like you are wearing it. As a concept, I think this is brilliant!

However, the glue can sometimes be a little messy and smudge or move around during the application. This is where things can get sticky (figuratively) because fixing this is not easy. It would look like smudged black eyeliner and once it dries, it is fully set.

This is why I always prefer the clear Duo Eyelash Adhesive. Since it dries clear, it doesn’t show up. Meaning if the glue smudges during the application, it does not matter as everything is hidden.

The best technique when applying false eyelashes is to first apply all your eye shadow followed by lining the eyes on top (if you want to skip eyeliner altogether, this is an option too although I always think false lashes should be paired up with a little eyeliner). Then you can go ahead and apply the false eyelashes over top the eyeliner as close to the lash line as possible. I sometimes will also take it a step further and go over the top liner again once the glue is dried to make sure the eyeliner is extra smooth and defined. I also like to do this as it conceals even more the fact that I applied a set of false eyelashes.

Given the choice, I will always recommend the clear Duo Eyelash Adhesive!