Thinner, ProLong, and ProLong Gloss: What's the Difference?
When browsing through the myriad of ProAiir products available, have you ever wondered how the various makeup additives are used? While ProLong, ProLong Gloss, and Thinner are similar, they are different in ways that will be explained here. Read on and you too will know why all three are needed in your toolbox!
ProAiir Thinner
ProAiir Thinner is formulated to thin the consistency AND opacity of any and all ProAiir makeup. Adding Thinner to makeup will yield a more translucent or 'watercolor' effect. Simply add a few drops directly into any makeup to enhance the flowability. At ShowOffs, we recommend adding a single drop at a time until the desired consistency, color and opacity are achieved.
ProLong
ProLong works with all ProAiir makeup products and has several different uses! ProLong is a fantastic thinning agent that will NOT affect pigmentation when added to Hybrid makeup or Ink. That's right; unlike ProAiir Thinner, ProLong will thin the consistency of the makeup without compromising the bold pigmentation.
In high temperatures, makeup may thicken as evaporation occurs. Such thickening can lead to airbrushes clogging. Don't despair. Using the twist cap provided, add a few drops of ProLong to your Hybrid or Ink and shake well to restore the liquid to it's original consistency.
Adding ProLong to makeup is also a great way to help alleviate airbrush tip dry! If you notice makeup collecting at the tip of the airbrush, adding a bit of ProLong will help prevent those pigments from gathering around and clogging the needle.
When using trays or palettes with DIPS to blend colors and load brushes, nothing should ever go to waste. Adding a few drops of ProLong to dry makeup will reactivate it for use the next time around. Because ProAiir makeup and ProLong are alcohol based, you never have to worry about bacteria. There's no need to clean those brushes either. Bristles loaded with dry DIPS are ready for action as soon as they come into contact with ProLong.
When working with ProAiir SOLIDS, ProLong is the recommended solution for activating the concentrated cake pigments (never use water with SOLIDS - or any ProAiir makeup for that matter). A couple of drops of ProLong onto a SOLIDS cake and a good swirl of the brush or sponge and you're ready to go. Keep in mind that with any new cake makeup, a bit of work may be needed to break through the outer membrane and into the first layer of pigments. ProAiir SOLIDS is a super long lasting makeup that is perfect for extreme conditions! In a pinch, 91% or 99% Isopropyl alcohol can be used in place of ProLong. The color will be a bit translucent, but it'll still look great and last a long time.
ProAiir makeup and ProLong are alcohol based, making them very sanitary and resistant to bacteria. Nevertheless, for ultimate comfort and protection, brushes can be cleaned between customers with ProAiir ProCleaner! Post signs around your booth or set-up letting customers know that you use only sanitary, skin safe makeup made in the USA.
For a dazzling, sparkling splash of color, mix ProLong with your favorite mica or glitter powders and turn those dry powders into brush on, water resistant makeup that adheres well to the skin.
Lastly, use ProLong to preserve and extend the life of completed designs. To prolong the art, use the spray pump provided or spray through an airbrush to mist lightly over the finished makeup. Spray ProLong over any makeup, even water based, to enhance the durability of the work!
ProLong Gloss
ProLong Gloss has the same amazing features of ProLong, but with a satin finish. To brighten up art with a nice sheen, consider using ProLong Gloss in all the same ways described above.
There you have it! Now you know how you can take advantage of these great products to adjust makeup opacity and consistency, extend the durability of masterpieces, create unique products of your own, and reconstitute makeup products that might otherwise go to waste. Each plays an important role in the ProAiir family of makeup and will likely, sooner or later, find a home in your kit.