When the Sephora Airbrush Foundation was compared to the high-end Dior Airflash Foundation, it piqued my curiosity. The Dior Airflash Foundation is renowned for its luxurious formula and high price tag of $68. To find a similar product at a more affordable price is always enticing. Claims that the Sephora Airbrush Foundation could rival the Dior version, especially with a price difference of nearly half, added to the intrigue. This review delves into the nuances of both foundations to determine if the Sephora Airbrush can stand up to its high-end counterpart.
Price and Shade Range
Dior Airflash Foundation:
- Price: $68
- Shade Range: Dior offers a comprehensive range of shades designed to cater to a broad spectrum of skin tones. The foundation comes in 14 shades, from very fair to deep, ensuring a match for most skin tones.
Sephora Airbrush Foundation:
- Price: Approximately $34, making it a more budget-friendly alternative.
- Shade Range: Despite being more affordable, the Sephora Airbrush Foundation also offers 9 shades. While this is fewer than Dior’s range, it still provides options that cover a variety of skin tones. However, the shade options may not be as inclusive, which is something to consider.
Shade and Oxidation
I selected the Sephora Airbrush Foundation in the shade “Light.” Unfortunately, this shade has a slightly pink undertone and is darker than my natural skin tone. In natural light, it is noticeably darker, which might not be ideal for those with a lighter complexion. For a closer match, I would suggest opting for the “Fair” shade, which has a more yellow undertone and might blend better with lighter skin tones. The “Medium” shade, in contrast, is too dark and should be avoided if you have lighter skin.
Interestingly, the foundation does oxidize slightly. This means that while the pink undertone becomes less pronounced over time, it does not entirely correct the color mismatch. It’s important to test the foundation and observe how it settles throughout the day.
Coverage
The Sephora Airbrush Foundation offers buildable coverage. It effectively evens out skin tone with a medium coverage level. However, it may not be the best choice if you are looking for full coverage or need to conceal significant blemishes or imperfections. The foundation provides a skin-like finish, allowing some natural skin texture to show through, which is ideal for a more natural look. It pairs well with a radiant primer, enhancing the glow and providing a luminous effect. Despite its buildable nature, it remains lightweight and comfortable on the skin.
Longevity
The wear time of the Sephora Airbrush Foundation is somewhat limited, lasting around 4-6 hours before it begins to fade. A notable observation is that while the foundation diminishes, blush and other cheek products remain visible. After approximately 4 hours, the foundation may not look as fresh or flawless as when initially applied. This could be a concern if you need your makeup to last throughout a long day or event.
Application Tips
Spraying the foundation directly onto your face can be messy and may lead to product wastage. For a more controlled application, I recommend spraying the foundation onto a makeup brush or sponge and then applying it to your face. This method delivers a lighter, airbrushed finish and minimizes the risk of excess product buildup. It also avoids clinging to dry patches, which is beneficial for those with dry skin. However, be mindful that the foundation can become streaky if not blended quickly and thoroughly.
Comparison with Dior Airflash Foundation
Dior Airflash Foundation:
- Price: $68
- Shade Range: 14 shades
- Coverage: Offers a buildable medium to full coverage. Known for its ability to create a flawless, airbrushed finish with good longevity.
- Longevity: Typically lasts longer than the Sephora version, often remaining intact for 8-12 hours.
- Application: Also comes in a spray format, but often recommended to be sprayed onto a brush or sponge for optimal application.
Sephora Airbrush Foundation:
- Price: $34
- Shade Range: 9 shades
- Coverage: Provides buildable medium coverage with a skin-like finish. Less coverage compared to Dior Airflash.
- Longevity: Lasts around 4-6 hours, with noticeable fading after a few hours.
- Application: Similar spray format; applying to a brush or sponge is recommended to avoid messiness and ensure even coverage.
Final Recommendations
The Sephora Airbrush Foundation offers a beautiful finish, particularly when used with a radiant primer. It is a commendable alternative for those seeking an affordable option compared to the Dior Airflash Foundation. However, its limited wear time and slight color mismatch may be drawbacks for some users. If longevity is a crucial factor for you, investing in the Dior Airflash Foundation might be a better choice.
For those on a budget, the Sephora Airbrush Foundation is worth considering for its natural, airbrushed finish and comfortable wear. However, if you need long-lasting coverage and a broader shade range, the Dior Airflash Foundation remains the superior option.
