It wasn’t really that long ago, just a few years actually—that airbrush makeup systems seemed completely out of reach to everyday consumers. While they’re still considered a luxury by many, they’re becoming more attainable and affordable with each innovation that hits the market. One of the most recent is the TEMTU AIRbrush Makeup System Starter Set. I think one of the reasons I didn’t try it sooner is because I was under the impression that it was really complicated to use. I took one look at the AIR pods that contain the foundation, and I was convinced that it was something I didn’t want to get involved with. Another case of Amber Judges a Book By its Cover and Couldn’t Be More Wrong. I’ve written about other airbrush systems in the past, and I’ve called them “easy to use”. But NO. This one—it’s REALLY easy to use! Scout’s honor. I think I even tweeted something the first time I used it, to the effect of “Sorry other airbrush systems, but TEMPTU just kicked your butts!”
The system itself is a lightweight, compact, and portable device that is ready to go—after you’ve attached two cords, and an AIR pod. One cord is the air hose, and the other is the AC adapter, both of which took me just a few seconds to do. The most challenging part will probably be understanding the AIR pods.
With the Starter Set, you’ll receive:
- TEMPTU AIRbrush Makeup System
- 1 AIR pod Foundation pack (contains 2 x 0.28 oz AIR pods)
- 0.28 AIR pod Blush
- 0.28 oz AIR pod Highlighter
The AIR pods are a key element to this system, and are actually a genius way to dispense product to the airbrush itself—because other systems require that you place a few drops of your product in the stylus, and then click your heels and hope that you’ve mixed the colors right (or don’t run out before you’ve finished your face). I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had to stop and reload foundation in other systems, but that doesn’t happen with TEMPTU because the foundation AIR pods provide a consistent flow of foundation that is plentiful—each one should last from 2-3 months. The blush and highlighter AIR pods that come with this set will last even longer.
After you pop the cap off of the back of the pod, you’ll reveal where the real magic happens—the back of it is what attaches to the airbrush stylus. The pod literally does all the work for you…no more mixing or dropping in pigments! These are actually more like cartridges that you just swap out before and after you use them. You have your foundation AIR pod in, use it—then swap it out for blush, use it—swap it out…etc. You press the button on the side of the stylus, and slide each pod off and on as needed. It truly couldn’t be any easier.
Each AIR pod has the dispenser built-in, in which the air and product flows from during application:
Applying my foundation with this is similar to what I’ve experienced with other systems; hold the stylus several inches from my face, pull back on the trigger, and apply in circular motions until I’ve reached the desired effect. But the real difference is in how user-friendly TEMPTU has made it for anyone to use an airbrush machine. You don’t need to be a makeup artist, or receive a full instructional course prior to using it. If you’re afraid of using too much or too little, there’s a knob on the front of the compressor unit that allows you to control the overall flow of the product. I’ve been using mine at just slightly more than the “START” position, but you can adjust it accordingly.
For the Before & After photos: I used the Ivory foundation AIR pod, then applied blush and highlighter with TEMPTU’s Pale Pink blush and Sunset Glow highlighter AIR pods. The only other makeup I’m wearing is mascara—I also sprayed a little of the Pale Pink blush on a finger tip and applied it on my bare lips for a little color. (I did not set this with a finishing powder, but you definitely can if you choose.)
Aside from ease of use, the foundation itself is just a fantastic product. It’s oil-free, long-wearing, and it hasn’t migrated or oxidized on me at all during the many times I’ve worn it. It never feels heavy, and I think it just looks like skin once it’s applied. You simply purchase AIR pod replacements when yours are empty, they’re available for purchase separately. There are 12 foundation shades, and an incredible assortment of blush and highlighter shades to choose from for individual purchase—in addition to a bronzer.
Sephora is the exclusive retailer for this product, so I definitely recommend popping in so you can see if they can demonstrate how to use it, in-person. Here locally, my stores have one on the makeup stations for the Sephora artists to use—so check in your local store to see if they do as well. This isn’t a cheap date—if you buy just the unit itself, it’s $225, so I highly recommend buying the Starter Set at $295, because it’s a great price break for getting your AIR pods included! And I understand that this isn’t the kind of device for everyone to just run out and buy. But for those who are either in the business, getting into the business, or just want a great airbrush machine for high definition-ready looks—this is an amazing tool that makes it easy to achieve professional results.
Price & Availability: $295, sephora.com
