How to Use an Airbrush and Make Beautiful Body Decorations

Create body art with an airbrush.

The airbrush is one of the most versatile products when it comes to face and body makeup application. You can create very natural makeup looks using an airbrush or you can also create dramatic body decorations with this tool. The airbrush lets you spray on realistic looking tattoos and various body art designs, all with the push of a button. Try making a unique Halloween costume for yourself by spraying your body in shades of blue to become a real life Avatar.

Things You'll Need

• Nontoxic/cosmetic grade airbrush paint
• Airbrush application kit
• Stencils
• Small touch-up brush

Instructions

1. Exfoliate your skin and remove any body hair the day before you airbrush. Shower before you airbrush and moisturize your skin. Let the moisturizer dry completely on your skin before you move forward with airbrushing it, as the moisturizer may present a barrier for the airbrush paint to stay on your skin.

2. Pour a few drops of paint into the airbrush's paint compartment. Do not pass the fill line of the paint compartment.

3. Hold the stencils up and place on the skin in the area where you plan on creating your design. Stencils are available in a broad range of designs from tribal to fantasy designs.

4. Point the airbrush nozzle about an inch away from your stencil. Push the trigger on your airbrush back to release the paint. Spray the airbrush paint over the stencil using an up and down motion and work your way from the outer portion of your stencil in. You will need to go over the area again with the airbrush to get more coverage. Stop airbrushing once you feel you have the shade of color you are looking for.

5. Remove the stencil and use your touch-up brush, if necessary, to smooth over or blend in any areas that appear uneven.

References

• The Makeup Artist Handbook: Techniques for Film, Television, Photography, and Theatre; Mindy Hall, et al.; 2008
• "Dinair: Stencils for Airbrush Makeup"