Airbrush Versus HVLP

We are often asked which is better for salons – airbrush or HVLP?  What is the real scoop?

It depends – the quality of the system used has a huge impact on the results achieved.   Our recommendation is to get the best system you can afford.

What is the difference between airbrush and HVLP?

Airbrush application uses a gun that is shaped either like a pen or a pistol-like shape and is driven by a compressor. While some compressors can generate pressure from the gun of as much as 100 psi (pounds per square inch), a pressure of 20 psi is generally plenty and using too high a pressure can be dangerous to your clients due to skin penetration.  Buying a compressor with a pressure regulator is highly recommended.

Generally an airbrush application takes about 15 to 20 minutes and it gives considerable control to the technician. The pistol type gun (we carry the Iwata-Medea G6) provides more solution and shortens the application time.  The pistol type airbrushes require larger compressors of at least 1/6 HP with a tank.

Airbrush versus HVLP 

We have one customer that set up her salon with a larger Iwata compressor with its 2 regulators and hooked up her airbrush and a pistol type gun. She used the same DHA solution in each with the pistol for the large body parts and the pen-type airbrush for the face, hands, feet and detailing.  Neat!!  She goes quite fast – 10 minutes or so.

Cost of getting started in sunless tanning is cheapest with airbrush.  A basic set-up with good quality will cost under $350.  A high end system will cost around $1500.  Biddiscombe carries the Badger and Iwata brands. As to DHA solution, a skilled user will go through about 2 ounces per client or 60 clients per gallon.

Pros of Airbrush –

- Less expensive to get started.

- Relatively quiet, particularly with compressors that have air reservoir tanks.

- Systems can be quite portable.

Cons of Airbrush –

- The slowest process

- More over-spray than HVLP as a result of the higher pressures.

HVLP or High Volume, Low Pressure.  The compressor or blower which is also known as a turbine system is similar to a vacuum cleaner technology operating in reverse. The guns have a pistol type grip and operate at a pressure of less than 6 psi.

HVLP is fast.  An experienced technician can spray a client in 6 minutes or so.  It also has little over-spray.  Many states have required auto paint shops to switch from spray guns to HVLP systems because studies have shown dramatic reductions in over-spray – better for the environment and for the applicator.

In our lab, we are able to spray with HVLP without exhaust fans with virtually no over-spray.

Skilled technicians are very proficient at handling detailed application with HVLP and use 1.5 to 2 ounces per client.  Spray technique is very important.  The key is to spray from about 4 to 6 inches.  We have some salons call us about excess DHA solution usage with HVLP. After some discussion it was discovered that technicians were spraying at distances of 2 and 3 feet.

HVLP compressors are generally louder than those for airbrush.  We work with Accuspray and their new unit operates at between 65 and 70 decibels.  While this is about the level of a radio or street noise, it can be too loud for some environments. Two solutions.  First is locate the compressor in the ceiling or basement.  We know of many salons that have done this and are very happy. The other alternative is to acquire our handsome Quiet Spa™ system – the sound is then in the faint range of less than  60 D dB.

We have several customers that like the sound level as it attracts attention to their sunless program.

The HVLP system that we market sells for under $800 complete with gun and hose.  For the Quiet Spa™ system, the cost is around $1100.  We did look at other brands including one attractively designed import selling for over $5000. Accuspray makes great products and has a stellar reputation.

Pros of HVLP

- Fast.

- Low over-spray.

- Cheaper than the more expensive airbrush options.

- The unit can be used to assist in drying.

Cons of HVLP

- Higher cost as compared to entry level airbrush setups

- Sound level is a concern for some and may require attention.

- The turbine does get warm, so good ventilation is important. Our Quiet Spa system has an additional cooling fan built in.

HVLP conversion guns.  These are guns that give HVLP performance using conventional compressors (as opposed to HVLP turbines. They require compressors the size needed in an auto repair shop – 3 HP+ monsters!

Control of Over-spray- Attention to over-spray is important, otherwise a very messy salon could result.

We are always happy to share our knowledge on options and cost.  Don’t hesitate to give us a call.