Airbrush Kit – ISOMA Cosmetics (Official Website)

Photo credit: World Body Painting Festival

Lightweight Portable Airbrush Kit

ISOMA offers a lightweight portable airbrushing kit that is suitable for quick airbrush applications. The ISOMA Airbrush Kit contains 1 compressor, 1 hose, 1 electrical plug, and 1 airbrush sprayer in a handy carrying case. Also included in this offer is: 1 table mounted holder (that will hold for two (2) airbrushes,) 1 extra needle, 1 extra nozzle, 1 quick disconnect attachment, 1 mini-filter, a 5-piece set of cleaning needles, a 5-piece set of cleaning brushes, and a handy and sturdy canvas tote bag to carry your airbrush kit in.

Each Portable Airbrush Kit is $195.00

You may place your order on the shopping cart here

Useful Airbrush Information
for those that wish to apply
Face and Body Painting Makeup

IMPORTANT FACE AND BODY PAINTING SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Do not use any airbrush products in the sensitive areas of the eyes and especially on sensitive individuals. Do not use any airbrush products on an individual that has a skin condition, open wound(s,) or has irritated skin. Some shades/colors (especially red and yellow) may stain the skin of some individuals (especially those with light/pale skin.) Do a test before using these or any airbrush products on anyone. Do not use any shades/colors in the hair of individuals with blond hair or sun-bleached or chemically-bleached, colored or chemically-treated hair. Such hair is generally porous and may absorb the colors, and be difficult to remove.

Remember to use all airbrush products in a well-ventilated room/area. The airbrush sprays minute airborne particles into the air which is also referred to as a very fine, invisible like mist, one must work in an area with good ventilation when using an airbrush. This is an important safety precaution to remember for the health of yourself, your model and those that may be with you for lengthy periods of time in your room or work area, especially on a daily basis. Do not use any airbrush product on individuals with breathing conditions such as asthma or lung conditions. Some airbrush users, in addition to having adequate ventilation, wear a mask and have their model also wear one during lengthy airbrush body painting sessions. And when the artist is finally ready to apply the airbrush product to the face, the models mask is then removed.

Do not permit airborne particles from the airbrush to be near or exposed to any type of open flame or ignitable source (for example: a kitchen stove; a basement water-heater or furnace; an electric room heater; lighted cigarettes, etc.) Please keep all airbrush products out of the reach of children. Do not ingest or inhale when the product is airborne. Also, when one is doing a complete body painting session, to prevent slippage, one should secure to the floor, a disposable drop cloth or use a 36″ wide roll of brown wrapping paper (that is also secured to the floor,) as a disposable floor covering, in order to collect airborne particles or any spillage that fall to the floor during the airbrushing session and also as a means to lessen one’s cleanup time after using the airbrush. Awareness and Safety should be the professional makeup artists first and main concern.

Photo credit: World Body Painting Festival

APPLICATION TECHNIQUES FOR AIRBRUSH COSMETICS

Before attempting to operate any airbrush equipment, or use and apply any cosmetic airbrush makeup products, it is important that you first read the above-mentioned words titled: “IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS”. It is extremely important for everyone to read such safety precautions before operating an airbrush/compressor and using any cosmetic airbrush makeup.

Always remember, makeup should be applied to clean, dry, healthy skin. Before airbrushing, one should cleanse the face/body well to make sure that the area to be airbrushed is thoroughly cleansed. Make certain that any previously applied makeup, moisturizer, deodorant, natural or applied oils, body perfumes, body sweat, dirt, etc. have been removed from the skin. Any of these topical substances on the skin will prevent the airbrush cosmetics from properly adhering to the skin. The use of a cosmetic cotton square or cotton ball to apply a mild cosmetic astringent on the skin to additionally ensure that the skin is free of such substances is recommended. Do not use the astringent in the area of the eyes. It is important to have the skin cleansed well and use a mild astringent product before you start your airbrushing session on clean, dry, healthy skin.

Before using any airbrush cosmetics to spray one’s face, one should prepare their subject by draping the subject with a cape (they are available for purchase in beauty supply stores), to protect their personal clothes or costume from any spillage (if you are spraying without a protective cover on the airbrush cup) and from any fine cosmetic makeup mist that will be airborne in the air once you commence the spraying process. Also, around the neck of the cape, apply a few tissues or a Masslinn brand shop towel (an inexpensive, disposable paper towel that is available at beauty supply stores,) to keep the neck of the re-useable cape clean for the next individual that you may apply makeup to. Keeping one’s tools and accessories clean and in a well-maintained condition are not only essential to their working properly and displaying a sanitary appearance, but by doing so, one enhances ones professional esteem in the eyes of others.

As mentioned above, if your subject has any previously applied makeup, moisturizer, oils or other substance on their skin, it will be necessary for you or your subject to remove such substances with a cosmetic cotton square or cotton ball and a liquid makeup remover (Cetaphil brand, which is available in many drugstores, is a gentle skin cleanser that is easy to remove,) afterwards, use a cosmetic cotton square or cotton ball and a mild cosmetic astringent to remove any remaining residue. Permit the skin to dry completely.

Shake the bottle of airbrush cosmetics well to disperse and mix any of the cosmetic ingredients that may settle to the bottom of the container when sitting for a while. Once you have thoroughly mixed the contents of the cosmetic airbrush bottle, add enough drops of the liquid makeup to the well of the airbrush cup to cover the individuals face … this amount varies from face to face, due to various face sizes, but generally speaking, 12 to 15 drops may be sufficient to cover an average face. Once you get a “feel” for working with the airbrush and different size faces, you will be able to estimate more accurately how much airbrush makeup you may need to apply to a face.

Once you are ready to start the cosmetic airbrush application, explain the airbrushing process to your subject and ask your subject to close their eyes and mouth and hold their breath during brief intervals of the spraying process. Inform your subject that you will not take long to spray their face and that you will cease the spraying process at brief intervals to allow them to exhale and breathe again. Also explain that you are doing this procedure because you do not wish for them to inhale the airborne particles of makeup that are in the air when you are airbrushing their face.

You may commence the spraying process by spraying the back of your hand or onto a tissue that you should be holding close to the subject’s face. By spraying the back of the hand or a tissue, you can test the spray flow and not spray directly on the subject first. Also, when the subject hears the spraying process begin on your hand or the tissue, this prepares the subject for the gentle spraying application on their face and they are not “shocked” and move when the spray does touch their face. When the airbrush spray touches a subject’s face for the first time, it is an unusual experience and the spray may feel somewhat cold (like water being sprayed onto the skin,) and this occurrence is often referred to by individuals as a “shock” and some individuals tend to move away from a first-time encounter of airbrush spray, until they become accustomed to the spraying process.

As you spray the face, begin with the large areas of the face first (cheeks and forehead) and then work around the nose and mouth and then the eye areas (make sure that none of the spray goes directly into the opened areas of the nose, mouth, eyes or ears). When you are near any facial hair (eyebrows, eyelashes, mustaches, goatees, full beards,) or hairline areas; use the tissue that you are holding in your opposite hand as a “protective shield,” to hold in front of such areas to prevent the direct spray or any excess spray mist from touching these areas. Otherwise, they will leave a residue of cosmetic color on the hair. Remember, some light-colored hair (blonde,) and especially chemically treated, or sun-bleached hair may absorb the airbrush shade/color and may be difficult to remove. So, using a tissue as a “protective shield” to cover such hair areas is a good suggestion to remember and a technique to use. If one does get a small residue of color on the hair, remove it quickly with a cotton tipped applicator and a little water or mild astringent. Work quickly when spraying a face and work cleanly in order to avoid making any mistakes.

Photo credit: World Body Painting Festival

REMOVAL OF WATER-BASED AIRBRUSH COSMETICS FROM THE FACE

Water-based Airbrush Cosmetics may be removed from the face by using a mild cleanser, flowing warm water and by using a clean, soft, face cloth to gently remove the airbrush makeup. Some individuals prefer to use disposable cosmetic facial wipes or baby cleansing wipes (that are generally available for purchase in drugstores,) before doing the final removal with a soft face cloth. And in addition to doing so, some individuals like to use an exfoliating beauty mitten/glove and/or a soft cosmetic face brush to additionally cleanse and exfoliate healthy skin. A clean, soft, fluffy towel is the preferred drying method. Afterwards, apply a moisturizer to the skin as one would normally do after cleansing the face.

REMOVAL OF WATER-BASED AIRBRUSH COSMETICS FROM THE BODY

If one is removing an entire body makeup application, water-based Airbrush Cosmetics may be removed from the body by using a mild cleanser, flowing warm water and by using a clean, soft, face cloth to gently remove the airbrush makeup. Some individuals prefer to use disposable cosmetic facial wipes or baby cleansing wipes (that are generally available for purchase in drugstores,) before doing the final removal with a clean, soft face cloth. And in addition to doing so, some individuals like to use an exfoliating beauty mitten/glove and/or a soft cosmetic face brush to additionally cleanse and exfoliate healthy skin. It is advisable to have available a soft natural bristle back brush so the individual may reach hard to get to areas on the back of their body. A clean soft fluffy towel is the preferred method for drying and absorbing the water from the face and body after cleansing. Afterwards, apply a moisturizer to the skin as one would normally do after cleansing the face and body.

COSMETIC AIRBRUSH REMOVAL SUPPLY LIST

If one is planning to do numerous total body airbrushing projects for personal artistic pleasure and expression or for commercial work assignments, one should have a complete stock of airbrush removal products at home or to take to a studio workplace to use. One should purchase inexpensive but good quality face cloths and towels at discount stores and have them on hand for each new model to use and keep after an airbrush session. One should also purchase and keep in stock a supply of cleansing products such as: disposable cosmetic facial wipes or baby cleansing wipes; Cetaphil (a gentle skin cleanser,) Cetaphil Moisturizer (a gentile moisturizer,) body washes, hair shampoos, hair conditioners, bars of Dove moisturizing face/body cleansers, cosmetic exfoliating beauty mittens/gloves, cosmetic face cleansing brushes, natural bristle back brushes, cosmetic cotton squares or cotton balls, baby oil, mild cosmetic astringent. One should also have a clean wide toothed comb (a professional salon type is preferred,) and several types of hair drying brushes, as well as a hairdryer for the model to use. One may also purchase disposable Masslinn brand shop towels (from a professional beauty supply store,) and disposable paper slippers (from a beauty supply store) for the model to wear and to keep their feet clean while standing or walking around bare footed in the work place, and for cold areas, one should have a supply of new inexpensive socks for the subject to wear in order to keep their feet clean and to stay warm. The cost of these items may be included into your service fee for any paid commercial assignment. However, if the project is not for a paid assignment and is merely for your own artistic pleasure and expression, then you should be expected to pay for such expenses as a professional who is providing a courtesy and service to your model who is assisting you in your personal body painting session.

Since complete body airbrushing has become an extremely popular and a frequently commercially requested service in the multi-media makeup profession, as well as for personal artistic expression, airbrush makeup artists should also keep a supply of new G-strings available for future needs if they are planning on doing numerous complete body airbrushing sessions. It is best to have spares in the event that they may be needed. Plain white ones are best, they are easier to airbrush on and they do not distract from your airbrushed body design. Also, when purchasing such items, one should not buy items with any attachments or designs such as lace, rhinestones or printed or colored patterns on them.

Photo credit: World Body Painting Festival

ADDITIONAL USEFUL INFORMATION

AIRBRUSH MAKEUP TIPS

Creating with the airbrush is an artistically rewarding, exciting, and expressive way to display one’s artistic abilities. In the multi-media makeup profession, creating unusual or fantasy looks is an additional way to earn extra income by creating unique designs that require the use of an airbrush.

Before one tries to create such designs, one should prepare well in order to save time, money, and complete the assignment in a successful manner. One should plan their design from start to finish by doing a step-by- step list of the all materials that are needed for the design and for each of the application steps that one will do during the application process. Be creative in your designs, for example: one may use a variety of items, such as bread crumbs, grains of rice, pieces of oatmeal, a thin, see-through layer of cotton, etc. adhered to the body to create texture in order to enhance one’s creation. One may also use a plastic mesh bag (the type that oranges come in at the supermarket,) to create a “mesh” look upon the skin by spraying over the plastic mesh bag and leaving its imprint on the skin. Also, various colors of finely ground glitter or the type that may be sprayed on, rhinestones, feathers, etc. are also useful for attaching to the skin in order to create numerous effects and illusions. One may attach fake hair or fur in various colors to various parts of the body to create a unique look (available from the National Fiber Technology, LLC. At: fred@nftech.com). The plastic holder that is used to hold a six-pack of soda together may be used as a stencil on the body. Remember, anything should be considered as a possible product or item to use when you are thinking of a new design. When planning a drawing of your design, remember to spray lighter colors on the face or body first, afterwards, spray your darker colors on. You will do this in order to prevent a darker color that may have been applied first, from “bleeding through” under a light color that was applied second.

One may purchase (on the Internet from one of the several distributors that are listed,) items called Pro-Shields. These products are available in various sizes and are adhered to the skin in order to cover the nipples of the model’s breasts. Also, if the artist or the assignment requires that a G-string line not show on the model’s body, one may purchase Pro-Shields that are designed to cover the lower part of the female body. They are available in various sizes and are often worn by models during body painting assignments and by professional nude dancers during their performances. They make the model feel emotionally secure by appearing less naked in front of others. Plastic or latex bald caps may also be used to cover the hair of the model’s head to create a unique fantasy or alien look. They may also be cut into a specific or triangle shape and used as a covering of the body’s private parts by adhering them to the skin in order to cover such areas. Also, foam latex, gelatin, or latex shell appliances may also be added to the model’s body to create elf or alien ears or other features. Self-made or store-bought stencils are useful for creating many unique designs and looks on the skin and hair of your subject.

One may also wish to have a variety of makeup brush sizes available to use, by hand painting in certain areas on the face or body along with the airbrush application. Remember that a brush stroke will show up more intense as compared to the airbrush application … the airbrush in addition to spraying the face and body may be used to soften the edges of makeup brush strokes. One may purchase at cosmetic stores, various shades of eyeliner products that have very thin brushes in the bottle and use these products for drawing or painting on the skin in addition to the use of the airbrush. You may also use a white eyeliner pencil or a nude or sand colored lip-liner pencil to draw designs on the skin. Such shades are light or neutral appearing and are easy to cover over, especially if they are lightly applied to the skin. Also, the use of a “French curve” template (available at art stores,) to draw smooth curves of various sizes and designs are also ideal for the airbrush makeup artist to use when airbrushing a design on your mods body. Be opened minded and think creatively, remember that often a completed airbrushed body design is a combination of products, tools, materials, and techniques that are used to create one’s design.

Photo credit: World Body Painting Festival

THE NEEDS OF THE AIRBRUSH MODEL

Discuss in detail with your model very clearly what you wish to accomplish during the airbrush session and explain each step of the application process. If possible, present them with a sketch or design of the desired look that you hope to capture. If the model wishes to bring a friend for company or for feeling more comfortable during a naked session, it should be permissible to do so. Just ask the model to remind their friend to not distract the model during the application process with jokes to make one laugh, move or to distress the model. Explain exactly what the model should expect to do and feel during the entire procedure. A well-informed model is an excellent model that will assist and serve you well during your design process. Remind your model before they come to you, to remove all makeup, moisturizers or oils from their skin, as well as exfoliate the skin, so the airbrush makeup will adhere properly. Also, ask your model several days before the application session to remove any facial hair or body hair which will affect the successful look and completion of the airbrush application. This is especially good to do if one is doing an entire body makeup since body hair can greatly affect the airbrush application and the look of your creative design. Ask your model to wear loose fitting clothes on the day of the airbrush session in order to avoid making any marks or impressions on the skin due to the article of clothing being too tight … it often takes lengthy periods of time for such marks or impressions to disappear. Also, inform your model that you have a new G-string for her to wear during the airbrushing session or if she wishes to wear one of her own if she has one, ask her to bring it with her, but remind her that it should be a plain white G-string (with no attachments such as: lace, rhinestones, printed designs, etc. on it.) She will wear the G-string during the airbrush session, until it may be time to remove it and replace it with another type of frontal covering in their private area, if this method is desired. The model should be compensated for the expense of using her own G-string, especially if it is to also be painted. Also, permit your model to stretch and relax before and during the intervals of the airbrushing session to prevent cramping of the model’s limbs and body. Lavatory breaks are always expected and are a welcome “break time” from the airbrush session.

Have a clean, well ventilated, quite area for your application session with good lighting. If you are doing an entire body makeup, make sure that the room/area has a comfortable temperature for the model that will be nude. Having a television set with a video playing your models choice of movie is an excellent idea to help the model pass the time away during the lengthy and tedious application time, or else have some music that the model prefers to listen to, your model may also bring a book to read during the application time (a music stand to hold the model’s book would be a good suggestion to remember and to have available for her use). Also, have disposable paper slippers or socks for the model to wear until you are ready to airbrush their feet. Socks are a good to have available in order to keep their feet warm (on a cold floor,) and clean during the application process and during any walking around the room time to stretch, relax some, or to take a lavatory break.

Keep drinking water and some easy to eat foods that the model prefers to eat during the application period. Remember some applications can take hours to apply, so one needs refreshment and nourishment to prevent dizziness during long standing periods. Most importantly, one must have clean shower facilities with warm running water to remove the airbrush makeup after its application life. And as mentioned above, you should have available such items as: body washes, cleansers, as well as fresh, soft wash cloths and body scrubs (one with a long handle too) so the model may remove their makeup with ease from the front and back of their body. Some individuals prefer a beauty mitt/glove and/or a cosmetic cleansing brush to cleanse their face and body and exfoliate the skin. Do not permit such items to be used on anyone who has a skin condition, open wound(s), or irritated skin. Also, have a face and body moisturizer available for the model to use after their cleansing shower.

THE AIRBRUSH MAKEUP ARTIST

The airbrush makeup artist should as any true professional in any field, be professional at all times. One should present the appearance and decorum of a professional and ones working area, equipment and materials should be professional in appearance and well maintained. Before your model arrives, make sure that your equipment is working properly in order to avoid any delays or a last-minute cancellation of the session due to a problem with one’s equipment or a missing product that is needed. Have everything that you will need, presented in the order that it will be used and in a professional manner. Like an airplane pilot does before take-off, go over your list of needs and check each one off the day before the model arrives. Be professional … be prepared.

Photo credit: World Body Painting Festival

AIRBRUSHES AND COMPRESSORS

Many makeup artists who do a great deal of airbrush work require a heavy-duty airbrush compressor for doing extensive airbrush applications. Many makeup artists who specialize in airbrushing have stated that they prefer the Japanese Iwata airbrush and compressor. The Anest Iwata Corporation of Japan is the manufacturer of premium-quality airbrushes, compressors, and accessories. During their almost 100 years in the industry, they have established a reputation for having set the standard for excellence by producing the finest quality airbrushes and compressors in the world.

USEFUL IWATA AIRBRUSHES FOR THE AIRBRUSH MAKEUP ARTIST

If you plan to do airbrushing, make sure that you purchase two airbrushes in the event one may become lost, have a problem due to it being dropped and damaged, etc. Having a spare airbrush is like having a spare tire in the trunk of your car … it is a wise and important safety measure. Plus, you have the benefit of having two different airbrushes to use when applying various colors to your subject. The below listed airbrushes are presented for your consideration.

1 – IWATA ECLIPSE HP-BS MODEL – This airbrush is idea for the makeup artist that is interested in an excellent quality and all-around everyday airbrush for applying natural, beauty, character and special effect makeup applications. It features a 0.35 mm needle and nozzle combination with a 1/16-ounce reservoir cup, and has a new gravity-feed funnel design. The new improved funnel design makes it easy to clean and for the airbrush makeup to flow easily through the chamber and onto the skin.

2 – IWATA ECLIPSE HP-CS MODEL – This is also an excellent airbrush for the professional makeup artist. It has a very large 1/3-ounce cup for the makeup artist that desires a larger cup for holding more makeup than the above model. It features a 0.35 mm needle and nozzle combination for spraying fine-detail and at the same time providing a fast, smooth flow of makeup to the skin. Also, this model features the new funnel design that makes it easy to clean and for the makeup to flow through the chamber and onto the skin.

3 – IWATA ECLIPSE HP-BCS MODEL – This is an excellent airbrush for the makeup artist that desires to have available a large quantity of airbrush makeup without having to stop and re-fill a smaller size airbrush cup. It is a bottom-feed airbrush with a 0.5 mm needle and nozzle combination and is a high performing, high makeup flow, all-purpose airbrush. It is superb for the larger jobs that require a large amount of airbrush makeup to be placed in one of several size makeup containers that are detachable. This model is capable of using various size detachable makeup containers that simply slide in and out of the airbrush. The detachable containers vary in size and are subject to the choice of the makeup artist

IWATA STUDIO SERIES IS-50 SILVER JET COMPRESSOR

This is an excellent compressor for the professional makeup artist to use. It is suitable for the film or television studio, film/TV location camper, photographer’s studio, wedding makeup area, the artists private studio, etc. It is available in an attractive silver color and is very professional looking, as well as being powerful, compact, reliable and reasonably quiet. It features a sturdy holding/carrying handle on the top, a working pressure from 10 to 18 psi and has a pressure adjustment knob, pressure gauge, and an airbrush holder created in the front of the compressor. It is an ideal compressor for cosmetic airbrush application. The compressor weights 6.3 pounds and is 6 x 6 x 6 inches in size. It is 115 volts/60 HZ – 130 watts and features a pistol-grip filter and comes with a coiled air-hose. It provides exacting air pressure the minute you turn it on.

IWATA AIRBRUSH ACCESSORIES

If you should decide to purchase one of the above-mentioned airbrushes and compressor, it is suggested that you also consider purchasing one of the Iwata-Medea Quick Disconnect Adapters, so you may quickly detach the airbrush from the air-hose quickly for cleaning purposes or for changing airbrushes when one is in a hurry. They are ideal to have and use. It is also suggested that you purchase one of their portable Table-Top Cleaning Stations to prevent overspray when cleaning your airbrush. If one desires to purchase the Iwata Eclipse HP-BCS airbrush, one should also purchase their set of High Strength Translucent Jar and Cylinder Bottles; they are the most complete bottle assortment available. One may also wish to purchase a Tabletop Airbrush Holder which attaches to a tabletop, makeup room counter, etc. The holder has a resting space for holding two airbrushes.

Iwata airbrush products are distributed by Iwata-Medea, Inc., which is the exclusive importer, marketer and distributor for Iwata professional airbrushes, compressors and related accessories in North and South America, and in parts of Europe.

The Iwata-Medea, Inc. website is: www.iwata-medea.com

Iwata-Medea, Inc. may be contacted at: info@medea-artool.com

The Iwata-Medea, Inc. address in America is:

Iwata-Medea, Inc.
P. O. Box 14397
Portland, Oregon97293 – U.S.A.

Telephone: 503 – 253 – 7308 – Fax: 503 – 253 – 0721

Photo credit: World Body Painting Festival

AIRBRUSH REMINDERS

This simple reminder cannot be expressed too much, “A clean and well-maintained airbrush will always work properly.” Many novice airbrush makeup artists seem to think that their newly purchased airbrush will always work properly until it is several years old and needs a repair and/or part replacement. This is a major misconception. Maintenance is the key to the successful performance of an airbrush and the application of cosmetic airbrush makeup. Generally speaking, the main reason for many airbrushes to not properly work is poor maintenance. Clogging of the airbrush (improper cleaning,) is the number one problem that many new airbrush makeup artists encounter. Cleaning the airbrush after each use is essential to it functioning properly the next time that you may wish to use it. A simple rinsing, flushing, and cleaning after each usage with the recommended cleanser for the cosmetic airbrush product that you are applying will help it perform effectively when you use it the next time.

REMOVING AIRBRUSH COSMETICS FROM THE AIRBRUSH

ISOMA suggests that water-based airbrush cosmetics be thoroughly rinsed with warm water from the airbrush after each use. Afterwards, make sure that the well of the makeup cup and the airbrush needle chamber are clean, by spraying warm water through the airbrush chamber several times. Afterwards, (on Iwata airbrushes,) retract or remove the needle, fill the well of the makeup funnel designed cup with warm water and lightly place your index finger on the tip of the airbrush (in order to prevent any air from escaping from the tip,) then press and pull back the lever to permit the air to flow through the airbrush chamber … but since the tip is blocked by your index finger, the air that is being released through the airbrush will “gargle or bubble” back up into the well of the makeup cup. This process pushes back any loose cosmetic residue into the well of the makeup cup and enables you to flush it out with warm water. One should also use a cotton-tipped applicator to pick up and remove any see-able makeup residue that one may notice remaining in the well of the makeup cup. When one is through cleaning and thinks that the airbrush may be cleansed well, spray some warm water through the airbrush and onto a white tissue in order to see if the water sprays clear and does not display any cosmetic coloring. Repeat this spraying process again to ensure that the final spray is clean and until the airbrush is only spraying out air. After repeated usage of the airbrush, a more thorough cleaning process is suggested by taking the airbrush apart as suggested by the manufacturer and cleaning it with an airbrush kit and maintaining it as it is suggested in the owner’s manual.

It is advisable for the airbrush makeup artist to read their airbrush owners-manual in order to know how to operate, clean, and maintain their airbrush. It is also advisable to purchase an airbrush cleaning kit from an art store or airbrush store that carries airbrush products. This type of kit consists of several special small cleaning brushes of various sizes that are made especially for cleaning the inside chamber of airbrushes, by removing small particles of cosmetic airbrush residue that have remained in the inner chamber of the airbrush after it was used. It is best to do this cleaning before the makeup dries and hardens inside the airbrush, making it difficult to use your airbrush and to also later clean it.

Also, knowing in advance what type of problems that the user may encounter is helpful by enabling one to quickly recognize and resolve the problem. For example: if an airbrush has bubbles appearing in the well of the airbrush cup when you are trying to airbrush a subject, this is usually a sign that the airbrush was not properly cleaned and has a clogged nozzle cap or it may be due to a cracked nozzle which will have to be replaced. Understanding how your airbrush works and is maintained is the key ingredient to the successful use of the airbrush and the application of the airbrush cosmetic.

AIRBRUSH REMINDERS

REMOVING AIRBRUSH COSMETICS FROM THE AIRBRUSH

Photo credit: World Body Painting Festival

MIXING COSMETIC AIRBRUSH SHADES/COLORS

Airbrush Cosmetics are ready to use as they are, there is no need to mix them. But if one wishes to create a different shade or color they may mix their airbrush cosmetic shades/colors to create additional shades/colors. One should start by gradually adding one drop at a time to the airbrush shade/color (unless you have a specific idea of how much color you may wish to add,) afterwards, shake the mixture very well to blend the shades/colors together. Test the new shade/color on your arm or the arm of a friend to see how it may appear on actual skin. Make sure that you permit the shade/color to completely dry, because during the drying process you will see that the color changes into several different looks until it is completely dry. Only when the shade/color is completely dry will you see the actual shade/color of the new mixture.

When creating a new shade/color, you should start by only adding a drop at a time of a color to the main color that you wish to change. You may wish to use the following suggestion as an example: add a drop or more of African Ebony (a black shade) to a shade/color will darken the cosmetic airbrush makeup. Adding a drop or more of Arctic White (a white shade) to a shade/color will lighten the cosmetic airbrush makeup. Adding a drop or more of green or a yellow to a color that is too pinkish or red will help to neutralize the pink or red in that shade/color. You may use the below color mixing formulas as a simple guide for mixing colors:

BASIC FACTS ABOUT COLORS

PRIMARY COLORS

Red, Yellow and Blue are Primary Colors and if you mix the Primary Colors as suggested below, you will create the below colors:

If you mix red with yellow, you will create orange.

If you mix yellow with blue, you will create green.

If you mix blue with red, you will create violet.

SECONDARY COLORS

Secondary Colors are created by mixing the Primary Colors and if you mix them as suggested below, you will create the below colors:

If you mix red with yellow, you will create orange.

If you mix yellow with blue, you will create green.

If you mix blue with red, you will create violet.

TERTIARY COLORS OR INTERMEDIATE COLORS

TERTIARY COLOR (also referred to as INTERMEDIATE COLORS,) are created by mixing one Primary Color with one Secondary Color and if you mix them as suggested below, you will create the below colors.

If you mix red with orange, you will create a red-orange.

If you mix yellow with green, you will create a yellow-green.

If you mix blue with violet, you will create a blue-violet.

If you mix red with violet, you will create a red-violet.

If you mix yellow with orange, you will create a yellow-orange.

If you mix blue with green, you will create blue-green.

TINTS, TONES AND SHADES

TINTS, TONES, and SHADES are created by adding WHITE, GRAY, OR BLACK.

TINTS are created by mixing WHITE to a color.

TONES are created by mixing GRAY to a color.

SHADES are created by mixing BLACK to a color.

As for mixing natural skin tone airbrush shades; one may make them lighter or darker by mixing them together or by adding a drop of the white or black. Or one may decide to mix some of the other colors with them to create a unique look. If you do decide to experiment by mixing various shades/colors to create your own unique or custom-made shades/colors for your specific needs. Remember to make notes in reference to the newly created shade/color and even dab a bit of the color on your note paper with a cotton-tipped applicator so you may visually see the new color when you wish to review it again for possible consideration and use.

Photo credit: World Body Painting Festival

AIRBRUSH SUPPLIES

In addition to your airbrushes and compressor, you should have a variety of other supplies at your disposal in case they are needed. ISOMA has listed just a few items to give you a basic idea of what an airbrush body makeup artist may wish to have on hand for use. Each list of supplies will vary for each airbrush makeup artist … just as the contents of each makeup case will vary from makeup artist to makeup artist. The below items are listed as a reference guide for your consideration, you may wish to add to it.

Acetate Sheets – Acetate sheets are for creating your own custom-made stencils. You draw your design on one and then carefully cut out your design afterwards you place your stencil over an area of the skin and spray over the cut-out area of the stencil in order to leave a coating of spray to make the imprint of your design on the skin. Acetate sheets may be purchased at art stores.

Cotton Roll – A roll of cotton (rolls of cotton are available in drugstores,) may be used for a variety of effects, such as for creating a design on the skin by placing a very thin layer of cotton (that has been lightly pulled apart to create different shaped spaces/holes in the layer of cotton,) over the skin and then lightly spraying over the cotton with an airbrush color. The color residue leaves an unusual pattern on the skin … this technique works similar to a stencil application.

French curve – A French curve is a template (they are available for purchase at art stores,) that is used to draw smooth curves of various sizes and designs and are ideal for the airbrush makeup artist to use when airbrushing a design on your model’s body.

Rubber Pad – A rubber pad is used for placing an acetate sheet over it and then using an X-ACTO knife to cut out the custom-made design that has been drawn on the acetate sheet. The use of this pad prevents one from cutting the below surface (such as a table,) with the blade of the X-ACTO knife. They may be purchased at an art store.

Sponges – Various size and textured sponges are useful for creating various textured effects on the skin. One may use natural sea sponges or man-made sponges for this effect. One may also cut various shapes out of a block of foam latex sponge and create a custom-made sponge design for texturing the skin. One dips the desired sponge into some liquid makeup in order to absorb some makeup and then they stipple the sponge over the skin/body (that has been previously colored and dried,) this application technique leaves a textured effect on the skin in a different color than the base color of the skin. Scenic artists have used this effect for years to create stippled effects on the walls of film and television studio sets. Such sponges may be purchased in art stores and paint supply stores.

Spray Masks – Spray masks are used by airbrush makeup artists and their models to breathe through while the airbrush makeup artist uses the airbrush for lengthy periods of time during body airbrushing sessions. They may be purchased at art stores and paint supply stores.

Stencils – Stencils are sheets of acetate material that have designs cut out of them. They may be the types that are either home-made or purchased in a store. Various designs are available for purchase at art stores and stores that sell airbrush supplies and accessories. They are used by holding them on the skin and spraying over them a few times in order to get the desired color coverage. When the stencil is removed, it will leave the cut-out design impression on the skin of the area that was open on the stencil. They are washable and re-useable.

Tape – Blue 3 M brand tape (available at art stores and paint stores) It is a very useful tape that is used by scenic artists and house painters to apply over freshly painted trim surfaces in order to prevent the freshly painted trim from being painted on when the wall next to it is being painted. This type of special tape has a light, medium and heavy holding adhesive on the tape … many makeup artists prefer the medium hold adhesive tape. This tape may be adhered to the skin and used to mask off certain areas of the skin and to hold stencils or other items in place on the skin. This type of tape is also useful for masking various areas of the body (such as the bra strap area,) in order to create a sunburnt look on the shoulder. This tape has many uses. And since it has a lower adhesive hold than regular tapes, it is easy to remove from the skin and is less likely to cause any irritation on the skin (however, do a test on any individual to test for sensitivity to this tape.) This product is also available in different size widths and the larger size may be cut into a pattern and use as a stencil on the body.

X-ACTO knife – An X-ACTO knife is used for cutting out custom made designs that you may wish to cut on a sheet of acetate.

Photo credit: World Body Painting Festival

AIRBRUSH MAINTENANCE TOOLS AND ACCESSORIES

For any serious repair of your airbrush, it is suggested that you return it to the manufacturer for professional service and parts. They do it best.

Airbrush Cleaning Kit – This is a kit that consists of several types of small round brushes (similar to the type that are used for cleaning a baby bottle … but the airbrush cleaning kit brushes are much smaller,) they are useful for cleaning the inside of the airbrush chamber. They may be purchased at art stores or stores that sell airbrush supplies.

Brushes – Various size stiff brushes are useful for cleaning the inside of the airbrush cup and the large chamber of the airbrush. They may be purchased at art stores or paint stores that sell small brushes.

Clean Soft Cloth – A soft clean cloth is used for wiping away any excess Medea Super Lube after lubricating the needle of the airbrush to prevent any excess residue from clogging the nozzle.

Cotton Tipped Applicators – They are cotton tipped applicators that may be used for absorbing or picking up any see-able color residue in the tip of the airbrush nozzle or the cup of the airbrush and for cleaning the large inside chamber area of the airbrush. They may be purchased at drugstores.

Medea Super Lube – A lubricating product that is made especially for lubricating the needle of the airbrush, after applying, wipe any excess with a soft, clean cloth. Remember, over lubricating may leave a residue and clog the nozzle. Medea Super Lube may be purchased at art stores or stores that sell airbrush supplies.

Nozzle Spanner – A nozzle spanner is an important tool that is made especially for removing the nozzle of the airbrush. One is always supplied with your airbrush. Extras may be purchased at art stores or stores that carry airbrush supplies.

Petroleum Jelly – Petroleum Jelly is a useful substitute in an emergency for when Medea Super Lube is not available. A small size may be purchased in drugstores. When using this product, make sure you remove the excess with a tissue or soft cloth in order to not clog the nozzle with any excess residue of petroleum jelly.

Reamer – A thin needle-like tool that is used by some airbrush makeup artists by inserting it gently into the airbrush nozzle to help clean it, by removing any substances that may be blocking the nozzle. They may purchase at an art store or a store that carries airbrush supplies, or one can create one with an old airbrush needle by having the old needle evenly ground down some.

Tweezers – Tweezers are useful for holding small pieces of the airbrush parts when removing or replacing them back onto the airbrush. They may be purchased at drugstores.

Ultrasonic Cleaning Tank – A useful item for cleaning small parts such as the nozzle assembly (needle cap, nozzle cap, head cap, and the nozzle,) that have been removed from the airbrush and left to soak and clean slowly in the Ultrasonic cleaning tank. The parts are cleaned by the action of the ultrasonic waves generating micro vacuole bubbles that repeatedly expand and contract. The bursting of these bubbles removes any cosmetic residue that may be adhered to the various airbrush parts that are difficult to reach during the normal cleaning procedure. Ultrasonic cleaning tanks may be purchased at art stores or stores that sell airbrush supplies.

DISCLAIMER

The information presented on this site is for your reading pleasure only. ISOMA is not responsible for any misuse or accidents and in no event shall it be held liable for any damages (indirect, consequential, or otherwise) that may occur as a result of reading this material or as a result of a product or product application.