buuk.top / Marcus Millan
On first impressions, the idea of airbrushed makeup is intimidating. But thanks to innovations in beauty technology, it’s gaining popularity as a DIY option outside of bridal and red carpet looks.
“Airbrushed makeup isn’t my usual method, but with the right tools and techniques, they can deliver really beautiful, long-lasting results,” explains makeup artist Jasmin Lo. “In fact, the way it layers onto the skin—as opposed to being pressed in—can result in a soft-focused, perfected look thats tricky to emulate with creams and liquids.” Granted, it can take some getting used to maneuvering an airbrush tool, but if you like the look of super smooth skin or you’re willing to invest in some beauty technology, an airbrushed makeup kit might be it.
Because the airbrush makeup application method will often forgo the use of traditional application tools, such as makeup brushes (which make applying traditional makeup a breeze), we dedicated our time toevaluating how manageable each airbrush tool is and whether the components included in each kit are easy to assemble—without the fuss of cords and bulky compression machines. We also consulted three makeup artists who shared their best airbrush makeup kit selections and broke down what exactly makes airbrushed makeupnotoriously long-lasting. Lastly, our team of beauty editors researched thetype of coverage and shade range each kit offers. Pointing out the skin-nourishing ingredients that make these airbrush liquid pigments and kits exceptional was high-priority, too.
Temptu Air Perfect Canvas Starter Kit at Amazon
Art of Air Airbrush Makeup System at Amazon
Sephora Mist Airbrush Foundation at Sephora
Kett Cosmetics Kett Mini Jett Airbrush Makeup Starter Kit at Kettcosmetics.com
Jerome Alexander Deluxe Airbrush Foundation Set at Amazon
Younique Touch Spray Foundation at Amazon
Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs Makeup at Amazon
Luminess Basic Airbrush System at Amazon
OPHIR Airbrush Makeup System Kit at Amazon
Mineral Air Complexion Starter Kit at Amazon
In This Article
Expand
Best Overall
Temptu Air Perfect Canvas Starter Kit
Amazon
View On Temptu.com
Cordless
Compact
Long-lasting
Reviewers note that this airbrush machine can easily clog up with product
Temptu is our clear winner for a few key reasons. Firstly, itscordless and relatively streamlined, so its great for daily (or at least regular) use. Lo also points out that the24-strong shade range looks as if it would work across a varied and diverse variety of skin tones.
When it comes to using the Temptu, simply load your cartridge andmist the face slowly and evenly using circular motionsto ensure a seamless, professional-looking result. Its signatory air compressor is designed withairflow settings at three different speeds,from light to medium and full air, with each speed tailored to the type of area you’re airbrushing and the type of product you are applying (whether that be the Perfect Canvas Airpod Starter Foundation this airbrush makeup kit comes with or the blush and highlighter pigment pods that are available for purchase).
Overall, we gravitated toTemptu’s ability to provide a sheer finish just as it could a full coverage finish, further demonstrating its customizable and practical.
Who Its For
The Temptu’s two-piece kit acknowledges the root of what causes users to sometimes shy away from airbrush makeup: having too many components to consider when simply trying to get the hang of misting pigment on your skin. Because of its already-assembled air compressor, the Temptu is an airbrush makeup kit that is great for beginners and those who look to achieve asemi-matte finish
. Just as you can build up the coverage you desire on your complexion, the Temptu is convenient for users who are experimenting with body makeup as well, thanks to its “full air” setting.
Price at time of publish: $215
Number of Pieces:2 |Coverage Level: Buildable | Shades: 24 | Cruelty-Free: No
Best Value
Art of Air Professional Airbrush Cosmetic Makeup System
Amazon
View On Walmart
View On Artofair.com
Precise applicator
Carrying case included
Clunky and not very portable
Only offers fair to medium complexion shades
If you want to create a glamorous, sculpted makeup look, go for this best-selling kit from Art of Air. Not only doesit come with complexion shades but also blush, bronzer, and shimmer shades to contour and illuminate your face. The airbrush tool itself is also quite precise, affording great control around tricky spots (like the cheeks, eyes, and nose).
This kit includes an impressive amount considering its price—were talking a makeup primer, an airbrush cleaner, and a variety of pigments. Plus, the portable pouch it comes with allows you to store everything in one place when traveling.
Who Its For
This pick is great for semi-newbies (just graduated from the beginner stage) because the air compression machine featureseasy-to-maneuver control settingsthat allow you to precisely spread the product without any sudden surprises. While we wish there were more shades to choose from,fair and medium skin toneswill best match the foundation shades offered. As for users who look to specifically conceal blemishes all while achieving a smooth base,
reviewers note that this airbrush foundation, in particular, doesn’t crease against the skin.
Price at time of publish: $80
Number of Pieces: 6 | Coverage Level: Buildable | Shades: 6
Best for Beginners
Sephora Perfection Mist Airbrush Foundation
Sephora
Easy to use
Gives a natural finish
Affordable
Limited shade range
Prefer a hand-held option where you can simply mist and go?With "instablend" technology and microfine pigments, this buy from Sephora Collection is surprisingly simple to get right. Lo suggests “holding it four or so inches from the face, moving slowly from the center, outwards.”
Who Its For
Since this airbrush foundation doesn’t come with the gadgets we typically associate with the airbrush makeup method, it’s just the right introductory product to experiment with.Its for beginnerswho trust the power of a makeup sponge or foundation brush, as you can mist the foundation directly onto the bristles of your brush or the surface of your sponge to then easily blend it onto your skin evenly. Or, throw on an old t-shirt and mist directly onto the skin (reviewers mention it is quite capable of staining clothes). Both approaches will give the complexionlight to medium coverage, are suitable for the user who likens a natural finish, and will especially help mattify oil-prone skin.
Price at time of publish: $8
Coverage Level: Medium | Shades: 5 | Size: 2.5 fl. oz | Cruelty-Free:
Yes
Best for Pro-Grade
Kett Cosmetics Kett Mini Jett Airbrush Makeup Starter Kit
Kett Cosmetics
Blush and highlighter shades included
Long-lasting
Bulky air compression machine
If you want to invest in an airbrush kit that’s going to deliver amazing bridal beauty results, Kett Cosmetics Airbrush Starter Kit is the one to buy. The foundations themselves are silicone-based, so you get greatlongevity for special occasions. You’ll also receive 24 versatile shades across foundation, blush, and highlighter.
Who Its For
This kit is a splurge for sure, but consider it a splurge with foundation shades that range fromfair to dark, pigments made for contoured goodness, blush color that moves through the seasons with their bright or berry tones, and highlighting pigments that showcase their true reflective nature. It’sfor the airbrush-makeup-committed looking for the full package.
Oh, and this kit also introduces the user to Kett Cosmetics’ compact setting powder, a translucent pressed powder that the brand notes “was designed to perform under the light of scrutiny.”
Price at time of publish: $661
Number of Pieces: 9 | Coverage Level: Buildable | Shades: 24 | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Best Without Machine
Jerome Alexander MagicMinerals Deluxe AirBrush Foundation Set
Amazon
View On Walmart
View On Jeromealexander.com
Easy to use
Skincare benefits
Long-lasting
Lightweight texture
May cling onto skin dry spots
This handy kit comes with a primer, foundation, and setting spray—plus two applicator brushesfor beautiful skin in minutes. As opposed to a machine-operated option, you can mist this formula right onto either your face or the brush. There are evenpeptides and hyaluronic acid in the blend for a plump, fresh finish.1
Who Its For
If the goal is to achieve a full face ofdewy airbrushed makeup, this misting set of three will deliver the result you’re looking for. The best part about this kit is that it comes with two types of Kabuki brushes (both stiff and angled) to blend and buff out Jermone Alexander’s coveted AirBrush Foundation across the forehead, under the eyes, cheeks, jawline, and neck. This kit may not offer an airbrush machine, which is known to precisely control the amount of pigment dispensed, but the complemented brushes allow you toblend away excess product from the face if you prefer a medium-coverage look
.
Price at time of publish: $65
Number of Pieces: 5 | Coverage Level: Full | Shades: 12 | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Best Matte Finish
Younique Touch Spray Foundation
Amazon
View On Youniqueproducts.com
Easy to use
Comes with nourishing ingredients
Long-lasting
Not as precise as a machine
Might feature too harsh of a scent for some
Contains macadamia nut oil (which may trigger certain nut allergies)
This pick from Younique has a long-lasting matte finish despite the inclusion of nourishing ingredients like squalane, vitamin E, and macadamia nut oil. It’s hand-heldand doesn’t come with any additional attachments, so you can simply mist it onto prepped skin and use a sponge, brush, or your fingers to blend.
Who Its For
For a full day’s worth ofmaximum coverage, this mattifying and lightweight spray foundation by Younique doesn’t feel heavy on the skin and works acrossbeige, yellow, blue, and red undertones. Because this airbrush foundation creates a filter-smooth base, it will only complement the bronzing and blush products that come to follow even more. It’s optimal for the user whohas dry skin
yet looks to achieve a matte finish without the possibility of enhancing dry patches (as a foundation with a thick consistency would). It does require a bit of patience, as reviewers recommend shaking the aerosol bottle thoroughly before use. And if you’re sensitive to the way a makeup product smells, we’d like to note some mentioned it could emit a “chemical” scent after initial use.
Price at time of publish: $32
Coverage Level: Medium | Shades:8 | Size: 1.6 fl. oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Best for Body
Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs Makeup
Amazon
View On Walmart
View On Walmart
Inexpensive
Has a nice sheen
Easy to use
Contains parabens
Can transfer if not set
Airbrushing isn’t just for your face, which is why Sally Hansen’s Airbrush Glow body makeup is such an iconic formula that’s stood the test of time. Lo has used it on clients before and suggests applying a “light layer and setting with powder for a flawless, transfer-proof finish.” Whether you want tosoften the look of scars and uneven tone or simply can’t be bothered to self-tan, this quick and easy mist has you covered.
Who Its For
We’re currently staring at a discolored scar on our shin that formed after one too many razor nicks courtesy of our summer shaving routine. You may be on the same boat, and whether you’re in the mood to wear a skirt, dress, or cropped leggings or have a sunny vacation planned ahead, Sally Hansen’s airbrush leg makeup will helpconceal blemishes in a flash. Precision is less of an issue since the drugstore-ready airbrush misthas a sheen to it. Don’t mistake this body makeup offering as a self-tanner because just as fast as you are able to apply it is howquick it’ll wash off in the shower
.
Price at time of publish: $10
Coverage Level: Light | Shades: 6 | Size:4.4 fl. oz |Cruelty-Free: Yes
Best Luxury
Luminess Air Basic Airbrush System
Amazon
Has four shades in your skin tone
Blush and highlighter included
Portable
Foundation pigments have a thick consistency
May not be suitable for individuals with sensitive eyes
This kit from Luminess comes with four customizable shades infair, warm, medium, tan, and deep tones, so you can mix and match depending on the seasons. It’s top-rated on Amazon,has a buildable natural finish, and each kit includes a blush and highlighter for glowing skin. While pricey, it’s a best-seller that’s worth the splurge.
Who Its For
Since this kit includes a manual guide and DVD dedicated to showing you the ropes of airbrush makeup, its great for the visual learner. All of the Silk 4-in-1 Airbrush foundation pigments work harder than traditional foundation would without showing it and offermedium coverage that can be built up to a full coverage finish as well.Most importantly, these pigments are enriched with hydrating ingredients and antioxidants that appeal to a variety of skin types while living up to the aesthetic of airbrushed makeup.
Price at time of publish: $132
Number of Pieces: 8 | Coverage Level: Medium | Shades: 4 per kit | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Best for the Entire Face
OPHIR Airbrush Makeup System Kit Air Compressor Cosmetic Airbrush Makeup Set
Amazon
View On Ophirairbrush.com
Lipstick, eyeshadow, and foundation included
Adjustable speed settings
Requires skill to get the eyeshadows right
If you’re looking to airbrush your entire face—including cheeks and eyes—look no further than this kit from OPHIR. Itcomes with liquid eyeshadows, blush, bronzer, and highlighterso you can paint your entire makeup look. And as if that wasn’t enough, you can finish it off with theincluded lipstick and concealer.
OPHIR solely specializes in developing airbrush makeup tools, creating a compact air compressor thatfeatures five adjustable speeds suitable for detailed designs. Whether you’re interested in this kit for artistic occasions or are ready to commit to a full face of airbrush makeup, you won’t have to worry about your everyday makeup products clashing with this airbrush foundation because this kit has all the pigments and powder you could ever need.
Who Its For
This kit is for the airbrush makeup enthusiast who already feels quite comfortable maneuvering an airbrush tool. Once you’ve mastered the art of applying an evenly airbrushed base, you can play with thepurple, pink, yellow, and electric blue eye shadow pigments
that tend to be less forgiving of one’s application technique.
Price at time of publish: $133
Number of Pieces: 13 | Coverage Level: Full | Shades:3 |Cruelty-Free: Yes
Best On-the-Go
Mineral Air Complexion Starter AirMist Kit
Amazon
View On Mineralair.com
Compact
Easy to assemble
Fair to deep shade range
Airbrush machine is tough to clean
The only hard part about using Mineral Air’s airbrush kit is adding just enough drops of the foundation into the devicesdetachable reservoirwithout the potential of spillage. Thats it. This kitcuts the time in halfyou’d spend on assembling your airbrush machine and instead features acompact airbrush device that shapes into the size of the dominant hand you’ll mist with. Free of synthetic dyes and fragrance, the foundation itself is formulated toprime and deliver fair, tan, or deep-toned pigmentwith the result of a long-lasting satin finish.
Who Its For
Work ‘till six and dining at eight? You can charge this airbrush device at home or basically anywhere you take it with you, so its supertravel-proof.We love the micro-USB charging cord, especially because it doesn’t have to be attached to the airbrush device while in use, and once its completely charged (which takes about two hours), you’ll get 30 minutes of airbrush power. While its usage time is not as long-lasting as we wish it were, thelightweight and concealable pigment offered in 11 shades makes up for it. And because it emits a fine mist, the foundation doesn’t spread onto your hairline or clothing, no matter how close or far away you angle the device against your face.
Price at time of publish: $150
Number of Pieces:5| Coverage Level: Medium | Shades: 11 | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Most Customizable
Dinair Personal Pro Airbrush Makeup Starter Kit
Dinair
View On Airbrushmakeup.com
Has sheer, matte, satin, and velvet foundation finish pigments
Mini compressor machine
Easy to clean
Pigments apply darker than they seem
Requires multi-step assembling
Long cord
Every component within this airbrush kit will prove itself useful for the beginner and the airbrush makeup acquainted alike. If you’re unsure of exactly how far or how close you should hold your airbrush tool when misting product onto the skin, the sleek distance toolincluded in this kit can be attached to the airbrush stylus to help guide you. It has its traditional features as well: amakeup cup (to pour pigment into), a (long) cord that connects the compressor machine to the airbrush, and a bevy of foundation, blush, and bronzing shades.What we appreciate most about Dinair’s Personal Pro airbrush kit is that it includes black eyeliner pigment and the Airbrush Moist and Dewy Moisturizer to achieve either amatte or glowy look.
Who Its For
Airbrush foundation with a matte finish isn’t the only answer to a long-lasting look. You can benefit from the staying power of the airbrush makeup method and evencustomize your desired finish with this kit—its foundation finishes range from sheer to matte, satin, and full-on velvet.The system is designed for both face and body makeup, and whether you want to create a crisp, smoky eye crease or a soft photo filter bronze, its weightless compressor and airbrush device can mist air and pigment across even delicate areas, such as the eyelids.
Price at time of publish: $250
Number of Pieces: 16 | Coverage Level: Medium to full coverage | Shades: 4 | Cruelty-Free:
Yes
Best Pigments
Aeroblend Personal Airbrush Makeup Starter Kit
Amazon
View On Aeroblend.com
Each shade option features eight pigments
Water-based foundation
Simple to operate
Works for all skin-types—even sensitive
Doesnt wash off easily
Just as we paid close attention to the quality of Aeroblend’s airbrush stylus, we also took note of the mineral and water-based pigments in this kit, a combination that imparts a softening effect. Thefoundation is formulated with avocado and lavender,and each shade (light, medium, tan, dark, and deep) has a custom set of eight pigments that tailor to a variety of undertones. We can also get behind the fact that these formulas are fragrance-, silicone-, mineral oil-, and cruelty-free, as well as non-comedogenic and vegan, making themgreat for all skin types—even sensitive.
Who Its For
As natural of a finish as you could want is what you’ll get with the pigments in this kit. The air pressure settings on the compressor machine give youfull control of how thick of a layer you’ll apply, concealing redness, acne, and dark spots without streaks.You’ll simply have to tap the machine on and off to start airbrushing makeup onto your skin, and reviewers note its by far one of theeasiest blending and airbrush application experiences they’ve had.
Price at time of publish: $117
Number of Pieces:8 | Coverage Level: Medium | Shades: 4 | Cruelty-Free:
Yes
Where We Stand
Overall, our pick for the best airbrush makeup kit is theTemptu Air Perfect Canvas Starter Kit, as its a go-to for novices and pros alike. If you’re a beginner, consider one of the machine-free, spray-on selects: TheSephora Perfection Mist Airbrush Foundationis a reliable, affordable pick.
How We Researched & Tested
To compile this list, our team of editors and contributorsspent hours researching the best products on the marketin this category, evaluating their key features—like ingredients, shade range, and design—in addition toreviews from customers and other trusted sources. Our team alsoincorporated their own personal experiences testing products. We then collaborated with experts to ensure our picks were the best of the best.
Attributes we evaluated each airbrush makeup kit on:
Shade range diversityNumber of pieceseach kit includesType ofcoverage and finishEase of use
What to Look For in an Airbrush Makeup Kit
Silicone-based:According to makeup artist Stephanie Cinque, any type of silicone-based formula is best when it comes to long-lasting staying power. They’re also usually innately more water-resistant, ideal for withstanding things such as humidity, sweat, and even tears. (Check out the Kett Cosmetics Mini Jet Starter Pack.)Foundation shades:Most kits come with several foundation shades, though the variety is largely not that of what you’d find in traditional foundation formulas. So, keep in mind that it may be slightly harder to find your ideal match. (The Temptu Air Perfect Canvas Starter Kit comes in 24 versatile shades!)
According to Steve Kassajikian, Urban Decay’s Global Makeup Artist, airbrush makeup is more lightweight and looks much fresher than regular makeup, whereas regular makeup provides fuller coverage. “It gives the skin a smooth, natural appearance,” he says. “Also, most airbrush makeup is silicone-based, which allows it to last longer.”
When it comes to using an airbrush makeup device, Kassajikian says it should be applied in a circular motion all over the face. “The further away you hold the device, the less coverage it’ll apply, so hold it closer to the sections that need more coverage,” he says. “Keep your hand moving during the entire application so the foundation isn’t building up or concentrating in one area for too long.”
According to Kassajikian, yes, you can use airbrush makeup to cover up stretch marks but to a certain extent. “It depends how prominent the stretch marks are,” he says. If yours are much more prominent, it may be best to reach for traditional full coverage makeup, which you can find in a makeup kit.
Why Trust buuk.top
buuk.top contributor Emily Algar has been a writer and journalist (specializing in skincare, makeup, and wellness) for over six years. In that time, she’s tried countless products and interviewed tons of industry insiders. Before that, she worked in department stores on the beauty floor.
Chelsea Avila reports on the beauty and fashion market and scopes out the best of what hair, skin, and cosmetic products have to offer. To help update this article, Chelsea kept in mind the learning curve that often comes with experimenting with airbrush makeup. She researched each and every airbrush makeup kit featured to deliver candid insight on a pigments finish, a kit’s airbrushing tools, and the qualities that make them unique to the buyer.
buuk.top interviewed three makeup artists for this story on everything there is to know about airbrush makeup kits:
Stephanie Cinque is a makeup artist specializing in bridal beauty in the Tri-State area
Steve Kassajikian is Urban Decay’s Global Makeup Artist.
Jasmin Lo is a makeup artist based in Sydney, Australia.
According to our Diversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find any airbrush makeup from a Black-owned and/or Black-founded business. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@buuk.top.com and we will evaluate the product ASAP.
Article Sources
Draelos ZD, Diaz I, Namkoong J, Wu J, Boyd T. Efficacy Evaluation of a Topical Hyaluronic Acid Serum in Facial Photoaging. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2021 Aug;11(4):1385–1394. doi: 10.1007/s13555-021-00566-0
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