In Bollywood, makeup isn’t just about looking good—it’s about creating cinematic magic under the brightest lights and closest cameras. Whether it’s for a bride’s perfect moment, a red carpet showstopper, or a magazine cover shoot, the makeup style chosen is as important as the outfit. Here’s an in-depth look at when and why Bollywood stars use airbrush makeup and glam makeup, with real-life examples and insights.
- Airbrush Makeup – The HD Hero
What It Is:
Airbrush makeup is sprayed on in a fine mist, creating a flawless, lightweight, and smooth finish that is ideal for high-definition (HD) film or close-up photography. Unlike traditional makeup, it provides a seamless look, covering imperfections without looking heavy or cakey.
Where It’s Used in Bollywood:
- Bridal scenes in films
- Close-up shots in HD films and commercials
- Fashion magazine photoshoots
- Celebrity weddings
- Beauty and skincare product ads
Bollywood Examples with Sources:
Anushka Sharma – Bridal Scene in Ae Dil Hai Mushkil
- Use: Airbrush makeup was used to achieve a natural, glowing bridal look, ensuring Anushka looked flawless in close-ups during the film’s wedding sequences.
- Source: Vogue India features on her wedding look.
Priyanka Chopra – Real-Life Wedding
- Use: Makeup artist Yumi Mori used airbrush to ensure the perfect, long-lasting look for Priyanka’s wedding events.
- Source: Brides Today (India Today Group)
Deepika Padukone – Tanishq Bridal Photoshoot
- Use: For the bridal photoshoot, airbrush was used to maintain a radiant glow, ensuring the jewelry popped in high-resolution photos.
- Source: Harper’s Bazaar India, featuring makeup artist Namrata Soni.
Kareena Kapoor – TV Commercials for Lakmé & Lux
- Use: For beauty product ads, airbrush makeup ensured that Kareena’s face looked smooth and flawless under camera lights.
- Source: Elle India and behind-the-scenes interviews with makeup artist Mickey Contractor.
- Glam Makeup – The Spotlight Star
What It Is:
Glam makeup is the ultimate showstopper. With bold lips, dramatic eyes, contoured cheeks, and glittering highlights, this style is designed for maximum visual impact, perfect for stage performances, red carpet events, or music videos.
Where It’s Used in Bollywood:
- Award shows & red carpets
- Music videos & item numbers
- Reality show appearances
- Film promotions & press meets
Bollywood Examples with Sources:
Deepika Padukone – Cannes Film Festival
- Use: Deepika went for a bold, glamorous look with deep red lips, dramatic contouring, and shimmering eyes to shine under the spotlight.
- Source: Filmfare and Femina coverage of her Cannes appearance.
Nora Fatehi – Dilbar and Music Videos
- Use: Known for her statement-making looks, Nora’s glam makeup included shimmering eyeshadow, bronzer, and sculpted cheeks, perfect for dance sequences and close-ups.
- Source: Femina interviews and MUA tips.
Janhvi Kapoor – Filmfare Awards 2023
- Use: Janhvi opted for sharp eyeliner, glossy lips, and a glowing finish, which added to her flawless red-carpet look.
- Source: Filmfare red carpet coverage.
Malaika Arora – TV & Talk Show Appearances
- Use: Malaika’s signature glam includes dramatic eye makeup, defined brows, and glowing skin, ensuring she stands out under TV lighting.
- Source: Vogue India features on her TV appearances.
Airbrush vs. Glam: Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Airbrush Makeup | Glam Makeup |
| Coverage | Light, buildable, flawless | Medium to heavy |
| Used In | HD shoots, bridal, ads | Red carpet, dance, fashion shows |
| Tools | Airbrush machine | Brushes, sponges |
| Longevity | Very long-lasting, sweat-proof | Long-lasting, touch-ups needed |
| Finish | Smooth, poreless, natural | Defined, dramatic, radiant |
| Top Celebs Using It | Priyanka Chopra, Anushka Sharma | Deepika Padukone, Nora Fatehi |
| Primary Sources | Vogue, Brides Today, Elle India | Filmfare, Femina, Bazaar India |
Why It Matters:
In the fast-paced world of Bollywood, stars need more than just makeup—they need a camera-ready finish that can withstand the pressure of bright lights, long shooting hours, and close-up shots. Airbrush makeup is the go-to for achieving a flawless look under HD cameras (think bridal sequences and fashion shoots), while glam makeup is all about making a bold statement on stage, the red carpet, or in music videos.
Key Takeaways:
- Airbrush Makeup: Ideal for flawless skin in HD or close-up shots, providing a natural finish for bridal looks or product campaigns.
- Glam Makeup: Used for bold, dramatic visuals that capture attention on the red carpet, dance floors, and fashion stages.
