As I offer both traditional and airbrush makeup applications I often get asked what is the difference between the two. As the preparations are so different yet end up looking the same - they both have benefits.

So, what is the difference between the two and why is it popular with weddings?

I decided to look into airbrush makeup over 12 years ago - the cast of friends were said to have had it and I thought they all looked lovely toward the last few series. I had a trial of it and to be honest I wasnt completely blew away with it at first. I had had it applied at about 10am in the morning and thought I looked fine but nothing special. As I had a particularly busy day in the salon - I completely forgot about it and met up with friends for an after work drink (yeh I actually used to do that!!!). As I checked myself in the mirror - I couldn't believe how fresh I looked - I am one of these types who makeup likes to dissolve from my face and when I have been busy I look VERY washed out. But no, this was still very much there and it looked better than it had done when it was first applied. I was confused and excited at the same time. I mentioned it to my friends that I had my makeup done and one of them commented saying they meant to say how well I looked. I decided to go for it. I thought if this stayed on me - then it would be perfect for brides. It wasn't plain sailing - it did take some getting used to - blocked airgun, too much moisture on the skin would cause it to slip, hot spots - where I would try and cover a spot and it was left as a dark patch on the skin, looking dark and false as its first applied but then settling a bit later. The system I use is the Dinair - which is an American company and the foundation itself is a water based makeup so it will appear to be a matte finish but with an application of oil, a dewy finish can be achieved. Other systems on the market are Kett, Temptu, Mistair and Airbase among others.

Reasons why this is the preferred choice for brides.

Lightweight application with coverage that can be built up and custom mixed for each skin tone.

Suits most skin types as it works well without moisturiser,

and can be matte or dewey.

Great for those who fear makeup as it looks 'at one' with the skin giving a natural, fresh look.

It lasts so well that there is little need for touch ups.

Is touch proof, heat proof and tear proof and will get brides through the ceremony without tear stains.

Very refreshing to the skin especially on hot wedding mornings as its so cool on the skin.

Is great for mothers of the bride who are frightened of looking too 'over made up'.

It lies over the skin and does not soak into fine lines giving a more youthful look to the skin.

Photographs beautifully without the need for retouching.

Lasts and lasts without clogging up the skin ( I have known some to wear it the next day at breakfast!!)

I could go on and on about the benefits, but even though its fab - there are a few who just don't like it. And that is fine too - I offer both for that reason. Some just don't like the fact that although it looks good, they don't feel like they are actually wearing any - its so soft and dry it literally does feel like like soft peachy second skin, whereas traditional foundations do feel like there is more makeup on the skin and your more aware its 'there'.

Here is a little gallery of some wearing it and some who are not - bet you can't guess which one.

Did you guess right?

Airbrush is 1,3 & 6 - the rest are Anthony Braden liquid minerals - an equally lovely foundation which lasts very well, but it's the airbrush that will look good when you wake up in the morning after a heavy drinking session.

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