Updated by Alyssa Bueno on August 30th, 2024 The best thing about being a nail tech or being a nail salon owner? It's having the latest nail art tools at your disposal for your masterpieces, from nail lamps to airbrush systems. As you know, you'll need right nail tools to do nail care and gel polish application. Are you having trouble figuring out what to do with your new Airbrush Mini/Max? Don't worry! We are here to help you with our tips and tricks! When it comes to creating an Ombré effect, using Airbrush is one of the quickest and simplest methods. Airbrushing refers to applying nail art that uses a small, portable airbrush to spray paint on the nails. If you don't want to waste time waiting for your nail polish to dry before adding nail art designs on top, this technique is your best option. Learning a new tool can seem daunting at first, but you'll realize how easy it is to use once you've finished reading this guide. If you want to avoid a clogged airbrush and an uneven or spotty color, it's time to follow the proper usage and cleaning steps! What's the difference between the Airbrush Mini and the Airbrush Max? There are two different models of the iGel Airbrush: the one with the smaller compressor (Airbrush Mini) and the bigger one (Airbrush Max). Pros of Airbrush Mini: • Convenient for travel• Lightweight to use Cons of Airbrush Mini: • Has smaller compressor• Short battery life due to smaller features Pros of Airbrush Max: • Professional-looking• Built-in inkwell• More pressure to generate when in use• Longer battery life Cons of Airbrush Max: • Not travel-friendly It all boils down to personal preference. Traveling with the mini is more convenient because of its smaller size. However, other nail techs prefer using a bigger airbrush device due to its thicker handle or heavier grip. The iGel Airbrush Max may be more difficult to transport when you're on the go, but there's an inkwell built-in! Aesthetically, it's a more professional-looking option for nail salons. The larger the device, the more pressure it can generate and the longer its battery can survive because of this feature. Overall, ombré effects can be achieved with either instrument. How does the Airbrush work? Both the Airbrush Mini and the Airbrush Max are airbrush guns with a single motion. An automatic flow of compressed air will be generated when the trigger is pressed. There's a huge compartment for controlling airflow, maximizing and decreasing the airway in the tailpiece of a handpiece. The front of the airbrush is made up of three components: a rubber ring and two metal components to protect the needle. Note: You can watch our YouTube video tutorial on using and cleaning your Airbrush Mini here. If you want to see more product tutorials and live videos, you can join our iGel Beauty Facebook community. Can we use regular nail polish in the Airbrush System? Yes, you can use your regular nail polish in the Airbrush system. Just make sure not to smudge and be extra careful when spraying it on your nails since it has a more refined and smoother texture than gel. You can apply a Top Coat and cure your nails after being completely air-dried. How to use your Airbrush? STEP 1: First, attach the handpiece to the air compressor by twisting it into place. STEP 2: The next thing that you have to do is to half-fill the cup with pure acetone. STEP 3: Add 3-4 drops of your preferred iGel Beauty Gel or Lacquer Polish. STEP 4: A gel brush or a soft bristle paint brush should be used to properly mix the solution. STEP 5: Perform a spot test with a small amount of spray. Spray solution through the nozzle as needed by adjusting a screw on its tail to loosen its airway and open it up. When the trigger is pressed, the air is released. The pigment is released when the trigger is pulled back. Once the desired effect is achieved, spray from left to right in layers. How to clean your Airbrush? STEP 1: Add more acetone to the cup and stir well. STEP 2: Remove any remaining color from the sides using a delicate gel brush. STEP 3: Spray indefinitely until the container is empty. Repeat until the device or cup is clean. STEP 4: Use alcohol swab, cotton pad, or lint-free towel to clean the airbrush handpiece cup. STEP 5: Remove the front and back metal caps and wash the surface with a soft cloth. STEP 6: Carefully wipe the needle and avoid bending it. STEP 7: Recap and replace all components as soon as it's done. General Reminders: • Airbrushing allows quick and easy ways to apply the polish and lets you get creative with it. Airbrushes that are specifically designed for nail applications are the safest and most reliable tools to use. • One must take proper safety precautions when using an airbrush since you will be dealing with solvents and chemicals which can be hazardous when inhaled or applied to the skin. • It is crucial to ensure proper ventilation in the workspace and wear protective gear to minimize any potential health risks associated. • Ultimately, the choice between traditional application and airbrushing boils down to personal preference and the desired outcome for each individual nail artist/user. • iGel Beauty caters to customers worldwide and aims to provide an affordable and quality Airbrush option that allows them to keep up with the trends. The fun doesn't stop when you're doing nail art; the more nail tools, the better! You can add the airbrush system to your nail collection! You can join our iGel Beauty Facebook to learn more about iGel Beauty product tutorials and upcoming releases.