• Connecting the Standard Belloccio System
• First, layout all the components of the system.
• Unravel the cord to the 12V DC power adapter and plug the adapter end into the compressor and have the plug ready to plug into an 110V electrical outlet. (Note: Belloccio also offers an optional “On-The-Go” Rechargeable Battery Pack. These are great if you do not have access to an outlet, or if you are traveling. When fully charged the battery packs run time is over 2 hours.)
• Unravel the rubber air hose. Take one end of the hose and connect it to the compressor by pushing it all the way onto the compressors air outlet. Take the other end of the hose and connect it to the airbrush by pushing it all the way onto the airbrushes air inlet.
• Insert the airbrush into the holder.
• Now, plug the cord into an 110V electrical outlet and you’re ready to go.

Airbrushing Fundamentals

Basic Airbrush Usage and Techniques

• Single-Action Airbrush – Our single-action style airbrush provides a continuous flow of air through the tip of the airbrush, regardless if the trigger is pulled or not. The continuous flow of air is perfect for drying the makeup as it is sprayed – To achieve different coverage use the airbrush to apply different layers that are dried between each application. For a sheer coverage apply one even layer of airbrush. The airbrush operates very simply, as a pull of the trigger is all that is needed to spray the makeup out of it.
• How to hold an airbrush - Hold the airbrush like you would hold a pen with a loose wrist and your index finger on the trigger.
• Triggering the airbrush - For the best even results gently pull the airbrush trigger about a 1/4 to 1/2 way back for a very light feathered and soft spray. Never pull all the way back on the trigger when applying makeup as this results in a heavy, blotchy and uneven coverage.
• Airbrush spraying distance - For best coverage hold the airbrush approximately 6 to 8 inches away from the face as this will allow you to spray light feathered and soft layers. Spraying with the airbrush too close to the face will cause the makeup to look blotchy and caked.
• Airbrush in circular motions - Always keep the hand moving in consistent circular motions to obtain that natural and flawless look. Always keep a steady circular motion when spraying, as abruptly starting or stopping the spray will cause blotchiness and hot spots.
• Less is more - When applying makeup by airbrush always remember that less is more. Foundation should be applied lightly in multiple fine sheer layers to obtain full coverage.

Compressor Airflow Control Settings

• Powering On - Push the button nearest the center of the air compressors top to turn it on and off.
• Airflow Control Mode Button - The specially designed airbrush compressor features 3 airflow control settings. Toggle the button next to the power button to select between the light, medium and high airflow control settings.
• Use of Airflow Control Settings - The airflow settings allow you to have precise control of makeup application, depending on the need for sheer to full coverage or when blending, contouring and highlighting.
• High Setting: The high setting is recommended for use applying anti-aging moisturizer primer, tanning and when cleaning your airbrush.
• Medium Setting: The medium setting is ideal for applying foundation. This setting is recommended for applying light sheer layers of foundation on each pass over the face. This setting is also great for blending and contouring with bronzers, blushes and highlighters.
• Light Setting: The light setting will provide a very light sheer layer on each pass over the face. If you feel that the medium setting applies makeup too heavily when blending and contouring then switch to the light setting for lighter coverage. This setting is commonly used when spot concealing blemishes like age spots, scars, acne, wrinkles, etc…

Airbrush Exercises

• Practice with water first
• Once you have airbrush put together turn on compressor. You will notice there is constant airflow through the airbrush. Feel the different speeds of the compressor using air only first to get use to the feeling of the air on your face. Then place water in the cup of the airbrush to practice applying. This will help you feel how it is applied without wasting your product. Practice pulling the trigger back 6 to 8 inches away from your face to see how much product is released and the spray pattern of the airbrush. You’ll feel the fine spray mist on your face and get a good idea of what it would be like to airbrush on your makeup.
• It will have a larger spray pattern the further you pull the trigger back. Practice allowing a few seconds for dry time before applying the next layer. Practice applying a light sheer layer and repeat the process until you have a good feel for the coverage
• For closer application for covering blemishes or texture in the skin have the compressor setting on Low and slightly pull the trigger back to release a small amount of water while practicing. You will typically be about 2-3 inches away from the face.
• To apply foundation over face, neck and chest place the compressor on medium.
• For best results remember these key airbrush makeup principles:
• Apply in fine sheer layers:Less is more
• Always keep the airbrush in motion: Always keep a steady circular motion when spraying
• Starting and stopping: Abruptly starting or stopping the spray will cause blotchiness. Practice pulling back and releasing the trigger when starting and stopping application. This is the key technique to avoid blotchiness.

Distance from face: Stay 6 to 8 inches away from your face to prevent the makeup from being caked on or blotchy. The airbrush should only be moved closer to the face when spot covering or concealing blemishes and scars.

 Makeup Application

Preparing the Makeup

• Shaking Makeup - Always shake makeup for a minimum of 5 to 10 seconds before each use to avoid poor and uneven coverage.

Prepping the skin for foundation

• How to use the Anti-Aging Primer – Belloccios Moisturizing Primer is made with natural ingredients. The Primer prepares your skin to receive makeup foundation. It Primes and makes a smooth and even surface while moisturizing and hydrating the skin. The skin will then be ready for a long lasting flawless makeup application. This Anti-Aging Primer can be used before, during or after makeup is applied.

• Tips for using Belloccio’s Anti Aging Moisturizing Primer:
• For a matte finish apply 4-6 drops of Belloccio’s Makeup Primer prior to makeup application. This will give your skin a smooth flawless surface for your makeup to lay on that will last all day!
• Add 2-4 drops of Belloccio’s Makeup Primer into your foundation for a Semi-matte finish. This will give your skin a natural glow while naturally keeping the skin moisturized and hydrated.
• To achieve a Dewy complexion apply Belloccio’s Makeup Primer after you have applied your foundation. This will give your skin that youthful glow and still fight the signs of aging!

Applying Foundation

• Layer Application: Sheer, Medium and Full Coverage
• The great thing about airbrush makeup is a small amount will cover your skin and give you exact coverage you are looking for. It’s easy to apply too much foundation which is why you want to pay attention closely to see that once your skin starts to look beautiful and flawless you will stop applying product.

• Matching Your Skin Tone
• With Belloccio airbrush makeup you are able to custom blend your perfect foundation color to match your skin perfectly. Our 3 step shade finder walks you through understanding your undertone, surface tone and range from lightness to dark to pick your perfect foundations. As the seasons change so does your skin, and that’s why it’s important to learn how to mix foundations, as you’ll always be able to match your skin color using an airbrush.
• The most effective way to match your skin tone is to shake your makeup, put a few drops on your finger and put a stripe on your cheek. If it blends with your color, perfect. If one is too dark and one is too light, mix them. It’s one of the very best benefits of Airbrush Makeup – you can create your own palette. Finally a color that works for you!
• Mixing Foundation Colors by Back Bubbling
• Fill the airbrush cup with foundation colors you’d like to mix then cover the tip of the airbrush with your fingertip or a tissue to block airflow from the nozzle. Now pull the trigger back and forth slightly (about ¼ of the way back) to begin back bubbling. The air will reverse its flow back up into the cup and mix the makeup in the cup. You will see bubbles form in the cup as the colors are mixing.
• Allow air to dry makeup

Bronzer, Blushes & Highlighters

• Bronzer
• Application will be best using 3-4 drops of product and the compressor setting on low. Apply Belloccio Bronzer on the face, neck and body. Applying bronzer after foundation will create a natural sun kissed glow to make any makeup look polished.
• To correctively enhance the features you were born with, apply bronzer below cheek bones no further in than the corner of your eye and no further down than the bottom of your nose.
• You can also bring a little up in the temples of your forehead as this is a natural section that the sun hits. This corrective technique will not only give your cheek bones a lift and pop but with applying a small amount on the temples you can create a beautiful glow to your skin.

• Blush
• Follow the guidelines below for a corrective blush technique that allows all women to look their best:
• Blush can be applied before or after Belloccio Foundation. For a natural looking blush from within, you will want to apply prior to your foundation.
• For all you blush lovers; apply after foundation. Start light and work your way with more if desired.
• Apply blush no lower than the bottom of your nose and no further than in the pupil of your eye. This will not only enhance your cheekbones, but also look as natural as possible with your desired look.

• Highlight
• Application will be best using 3-4 drops of product and the compressor setting on low. Apply Belloccio Bronzer on the face.
• Apply under the eye area and bring up around to the eyebrow this will suddenly make tired eyes look BRIGHT and AWAKE!
• Apply highlighter under the brow bone to give a pop to the eyebrow.
• Apply above the bow of the lip to give the illusion of a full plump lips or even counterbalance dark shadows on the face.

• Finishing the Makeup Process

When you are finished with your makeup application always clean your airbrush. A dirty airbrush will compromise the finish of you next airbrush session.

Airbrush Cleaning & Maintenance

Ensures that you are ready to produce perfect results for the next use.

Daily Cleaning

• Cleaning inside the cup - Spray out any left over makeup in the airbrush cup. Pour belloccio airbrush cleaner onto a cotton pad, paper towel or cotton swab then wipe out excess makeup from inside of the cup. A cotton swab with cleaner is recommended to clean inside the needle passage in the bottom of the cup.

• Cleaning by Back bubbling - Back bubbling disperses the residue buildup in the tip and cup of the airbrush.
• Fill the cup with belloccio airbrush cleaner then cover the tip of the airbrush with your fingertip or a tissue to block airflow from the nozzle, now pull the trigger back slightly (about ¼ of the way back) to begin back bubbling. It is normal for the cleaner to bubble over the edges of the cup if it has been filled too high with cleaner or the trigger has been pulled back too far.
• After back bubbling, use the high airflow setting to spray out the remaining liquid into a tissue until the spray becomes clear. Repeat this process if necessary to obtain a clear spray.

• Cleaning the Airbrush Needle – Removing, cleaning and lubing the airbrush needle is recommended after each use to ensure trouble free operation.
• Twist off the back end or “handle” of the brush. This exposes the back end of the needle. Unscrew, but do not remove, the “needle chucking nut” which holds the needle in place. Gently remove the needle and pull it over a tissue soaked with airbrush cleaner to clean it.
• While the needle is out of the airbrush, take the airbrush cap and tip head off the front of the airbrush, so that you can clean the makeup build-up on the airbrush nozzle with a cotton swab without interference from the needle. If necessary the nozzle can be removed, cleaned and replaced back on the airbrush.
• A drip or two of airbrush lube near the middle of the needle is recommended before replacing the needle back into the airbrush to ensure smooth operation. Do not over lube the needle as excess lube can be transferred to the nozzle.
• Carefully replace the needle into the airbrush and give it a gentle tap to make sure the needle is seated all the way into the airbrush nozzle. Now tighten the needle chucking nut to hold the needle in the proper position. Replace the handle onto the back of the airbrush and you’re now ready to spray.

• Airbrush Cleaning Station - Airbrush cleaning stations pots provide a simple, self-contained receptacle for airbrush cleaning. They are easy to use for cleaning your airbrush without messy overspray and will also allow you to save time between color changes.
• Insert airbrush into the insertion port. Use cleaner in the airbrush, and trigger the airbrush to blow cleaner through the airbrush and all the spray will be trapped in the jar. Repeat this process if necessary to obtain a clear spray.
• The cleaning station also serves as a convenient stand for holding your airbrush when not in use.

Quick Cleaning

How to clean the airbrush in one minute or less

Excess product gets poured in the sink with water running, place water in cup and pull back trigger all the way throughout the cleaning process. Let the water run through the airbrush then add the cleaner in the cup while maintaining the trigger pulled back. The take Q-tip to clean the inside of the cup and then inside the front of the needle cap still with the trigger pulled all the way back, so the needle doesn’t touch the Q-tip. Twist Q-tip counter clock wise inside the needle cap to avoid unscrewing the nozzle. Run the water through once more, untwist the back and take the needle out. Wipe with a tissue and place the needle back into the airbrush and tighten the chucking nut. Use compressor setting on High.

Airbrush Troubleshooting

The majority of airbrush problems are related to the lack of regular thorough cleanings.

Common mistakes when using an airbrush

• Not cleaning the airbrush after each application
• Applying too much product
• Holding the airbrush incorrectly when applying
• Moving the airbrush too quickly when applying makeup
• Putting too much product in the cup
• Pulling the trigger all the way back while applying your airbrush foundation.
• Not keeping the airbrush brush in constant motion (holding it still) will cause blotchiness

Troubleshooting Problems & Solutions

• Heavy, Blotchy or Uneven Coverage
• Airflow Setting to High – Lower Airflow setting
• Holding airbrush too close to the face - Stay 6 to 8 inches away from your face to prevent the makeup from being caked on or blotchy
• Allowing too much makeup to flow by pulling trigger too far back – Only pull the trigger about 1/3 to 1/2 way back for a very light feathered and soft spray. Pulling the trigger past the midpoint can result in a heavy, blotchy or uneven coverage.
• Airbrush Not Spraying
• Clogged Nozzle – Remove and clean nozzle
• Damaged Nozzle – Remove and replace with new nozzle
• Tip Head is Loose – Tighten Tip Head
• Needle not Moving – Tighten loose needle chucking nut
• Air Pressure to Low – Adjust to higher airflow setting
• Grainy or Textured Spray
• Air Pressure to Low – Adjust to higher airflow setting
• Dried Makeup on End of Needle – Remove, clean and lube needle
• Dirty Airbrush Nozzle – Remove and clean nozzle
• Makeup too thick – Use fresh makeup from a thoroughly shaken bottle, possibly have applied too much makeup.
• Bubbling Fluid in Cup
• Clogged or Damaged Nozzle – Remove and clean or replace nozzle
• Tip Head is Loose – Tighten Tip Head
• Spray Cannot be Shutoff
• Clogged or Damaged Nozzle – Remove and clean or replace nozzle
• Dirty or Stuck Needle – Remove, clean and lube needle
• Needle not seating all the way into the nozzle due to loose needle chucking nut - Push needle in until it seats in the nozzle, then tighten needle chucking nut
• Sticky Trigger – Trigger and air valve packing need to be lubed
• Sprays Double Lines or Heavy on One Side
• Split Nozzle Tip – Remove and Replace
• Bent Needle Tip – Remove and straighten or replace
• Nozzle Tip Not Centered in Tip Head – Remove and clean airbrush tip head threads and head thread assembly on airbrush
• Dried Makeup on End of Needle - Remove and clean needle
• Dirty Airbrush Nozzle – Remove and clean nozzle
• Makeup Blobs at the Beginning of a Stroke
• Spraying makeup before moving your hand – Have your hand in motion before triggering makeup flow
• Makeup Blobs at the End of a Stroke
• Stopping the airbrush movement before shutting off makeup flow - Follow through with your airbrush stroke until after the trigger is released to shutoff makeup flow
• Splattering

Allowing the needle to snap back into the tip – Always release the trigger gently to avoid splattering