Thursday, July 17, 2014

Airbrush Makeup

A Sure Way to a Flawless Finish

Airbrushed makeup has been around since the 1980's. First used for special effects and fantasy it quickly spread to use for bridal, special occasion and photography.  More recently it has come to dominate the gold standard for television and film because of its sheer flawless finish.  It stands up to HI-DEF without looking "makeupy" but giving the illusion of flawless skin.  Today it is in growing demand in salons and clinics because of the popularity of high definition photography and selfies in addition to the classical bridal, graduation and special events.  It is certainly a way for a salon/clinic to set themselves apart from the department store counters.

What makes it special?
Airbrush makeup creates a polished look that is simply not achievable with traditional application. In order for the makeup to go through the gun, its particle size is much smaller.  Properly applied, it lays down a very thin layer of makeup that seems to disappear on the skin rather than sink into pores or lines.  Unlike traditional makeup it doesn't absorb into the skin leaving blemishes exposed, rather it diffuses them so they are much less noticeable.  If you ever see airbrushed makeup that looks chalky or heavy, it is not properly applied.

Airbrush makeup is basically water and mineral pigment.  It comes in three formulas water based, silicone based and water proof.  Water based is made of water and finely ground pigments that allow the skin to breathe, is hypoallergenic and has no sticky feel.  The silicone based formulas are designed to be long wearing with no fading. Silicones can slightly fill in depressions are are popular to hide skin imperfections.  Water proof is just that, designed for long term wear and must be removed with a specialty product.  They are selected to use to camouflage/hide tattoos or other skin discolorations for several days at a time. They are not bothered by moisture or sweat.

Airbrush makeup does not transfer.  Slight rubbing or brushing against someone or something does not remove the makeup.  The only way non-waterproof formulas will transfer is if they get wet.  So it is best to blot, not wipe tears or other moisture.

Airbrush application of makeup also helps reduce cross contamination from client to client or artist to client.  With the use of the airbrush gun, the need to use fingers is eliminated along with the risks of spreading germs.

Clinics can benefit from offering these services and also to providing their clients with products and the at home airbrush devices. Clients can learn to airspray their makeup in 10 minutes or less and always have a flawless finish.  If they want the at home devices, and we know they are buying more at home devices all the time, why shouldn't you be the one offering them.  That way you will be able to select the best products for their use and have a little to tuck away for your retirement.  EstheticsNW.com offers Kett Cosmetics airbrush products and kits as well as in clinic training on how to offer these services. For complete information please contact our offices: 888-561-8068.

Sunday, June 22, 2014

Sun Protection for Outdoor Workers

Every year thousands of people spend long days working in the sun. If you or a loved one work in the sun, you need to know the facts. Those who work outdoors or those who spend their summer days outdoors are prime candidates for developing not only unattractive brown skin lesions but also actinic keritosis and skin cancer.  The reality is the longer you are exposed to the sun, the higher the risk for developing some form of skin cancer. 
Every year more than 3.5 MILLION cases of basal and squamous cell cancers are diagnosed. Although not fatal, the treatment is uncomfortable and can be disfiguring. Melanoma is the cancer that kills.  In 2014 there are expected to be over 76,000 new cases of melanoma diagnosed. From these there will be over 9700 deaths. This is very sad considering skin cancers are very preventable. 
Wearing loose fitting or UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing and or hats.  Each year more of these products are available on the market so there are a lot of choices.  If you feel you cannot afford to protect yourself with this consider the cost, both financial and physical, of developing skin cancer. Another option might be to put up some sort of canopy over the work area - not an easy thing for say the construction industry but industry has overcome bigger challenges.  
The other big thing is to use SPF daily and have it available to re-apply several times as needed to protect a burn or replace that which has lost its effectiveness due to perspiration or rubbing.  Shop around and find one that doesn't have any greasy feel and is easy to apply - two big complaints.  Those that work outdoors need to reapply every two hours. Web MD notes that the spray form is flammable so should not be applied while smoking or near heat or an open flame. 
Those you love may grouse over these recommendations, but the life they can protect and save is their own.

For more about sunscreens, visit our webpage: http://www.estheticsnw.com/sunscreens.htm