Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs Review

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June 4, 2012

During last week's heatwave, I busted out my shorts and skirts and reached for my Sally Hansen Salon Airbrush Legs "Light Glow" Leg Makeup ($13.99 at drugstores) in hopes of canceling out my ghostly pale skintone with a flawless, sun-kissed tan.

What they claim: "Imagine pantyhose-free flawless legs. Spray-on, water-resistant leg makeup stays fresh and natural looking all day. This lighweight formula is transfer resistant and optically slimming."

How to apply: Shake well. Spray directly into hand and apply on legs and feet. Blend evenly and completely. Allow to set for 60 seconds before dressing.

Keep reading to see the results!

What I thought: This stuff really lives up to the hype! I guess I shouldn't be so surprised, after all, models and actresses always achieve their flawless skin through the use of head-to-toe body makeup. But while they usually just have to look good on camera, I wasn't sure how leg makeup would work in real life.

Let's take a look, shall we?

Here are my legs before applying the Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs formula. Part of me says I should be happy with my skin, just the way it is. But another part of me wants to be a bronze goddess. It'll never happen naturally, so Sally is the next best thing...

See? Subtle, sun-kissed glow! I applied two light coats and blended well with my hands. It's just like applying foundation - you have to blend. But it was easy. I was able to cover the fronts and backs of my legs evenly and without streaking.

Here's another side by side comparison. You can't tell from my photos but the formula has a slight shimmer to it which helps reflect light and make your skintone look more even. But it's not so much sparkle that it looks like you're wearing body glitter or anything.

I wore the formula all day with sandals, then flats, with high temperatures in the 80s and the color did not budge at all. I was amazed at the staying power! I washed it off before bed because I didn't want to risk getting it on my sheets (it comes off easily with a little soap and water). I thought for sure it would smudge where my sandal straps rubbed against my skin, but it didn't.

I posted a pic on Instagram last week and got a ton of comments from people who say they absolutely love this product, too, which I was really glad to hear. This stuff has been around for ages but I just never gave it a try. Now I will definitely be using Airbrush Legs if I'm dressing up, or don't have time for a sunless tanner.

Are you a Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs fan? Why or why not?

Disclosure: I received this product free of charge courtesy of Sally Hansen months ago but just got around to using it. Love it so much I had to review. Opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Other disclosure: My husband asked me why my legs were orange. He likes me au naturel, so I will ignore his remarks.

UPDATE 6/5/12: I always forget to post what I'm wearing, so for those interested....Merona for Target shirt (similar); Necklace c/o Pop of Chic; ELLE for Kohl's skirt; Cynthia Vincent for Target wedges (similar); Express woven belt (similar)

Comments (29)

Posted in: Beauty, Sally Hansen

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Comments

I have this stuff, and use it occasionally. I also think it is great... My only caveat, the over-spray tends to get on EVERYTHING. I like to apply it outdoors, just to avoid the immense cleanup of my bathtub (not a quick task, let me tell you) but then you run the risk of WIND blowing the spray away, or the neighbors seeing you spraying yourself in bikini bottoms or hiking up your skirt, etc. So, there you go. Good stuff though!

#1 Karen on 2012-06-04 18:32 (Reply)

I just discovered this product about a month ago when Helena from Brooklyn Blonde mentioned that she loves it. So, I bought & took to use in California at Lucky FABB and was amazed at the results! Now I'm completely addicted and use it all the time!!

#2 Penny Pincher Fashion (Homepage) on 2012-06-04 18:57 (Reply)

Thanks for the review! Might have to give this a try!

#3 Elizabeth on 2012-06-04 19:54 (Reply)

I have your shoes! DV!! I am going to try this.

#4 Danielle on 2012-06-04 20:02 (Reply)

I've been using Airbrush Legs for YEARS and I LOVE it - I usually put some lotion in my hand, spray the spray into the lotion, then apply that - it keeps the spray from gooping up in any dry spots and makes application easier. Plus, no messy spray all over the place!

#5 Ashley (Homepage) on 2012-06-04 20:23 (Reply)

I picked up a bottle in high school, when it first came out. I think I tried it and had orange legs for graduation. Maybe it's time to pick it up again!

#6 Christina on 2012-06-04 21:01 (Reply)

I am trying to make peace with my pasty skin as well but it's so hard when everyone around seems to be so tan. Every now and then I break down and use sunless tanner but your results with this stuff look way better than anything I've ever experienced. I might have to pick some up next time it's on sale.

PS-I have those same shoes and wear them all the time! They are the most comfortable heels I own.

#7 Sara (Homepage) on 2012-06-04 22:28 (Reply)

If you are looking for a great self tanner, Arbonne has one that is all natural and botanical and best yet - doesn't smell!!! Again, like all tanners, you have to rub it in well, but I have been so pleased. I am extremely pale normally and have great color from using it.

#7.1 Lori Fitzgibbons on 2012-06-05 07:01 (Reply)

Since when is pure white natural skin pasty, gross, and unhealthy? Talk about a back lash to white supremacy that suddenly you are ashamed of a beautiful creamy white complexion. Hint? Most models have creamy white skin because they are smart. In Japan? Tans already went out of style and girls are back to being SMART, worshipping their natural complexions and protecting them from SUN DAMAGE (aka tan) by donning parasols. My skin has never been softer, more supple, and brighter than since I started avoiding the sun beams like rain drops. I pity the poor fool woman who is ashamed of being pale and thinks of it as sickly and ugly. Why try to be something you are not? If you have northern heritage stop for the love of God striving to be some Brazilian beach hoochie. Be an elegant, classy lady with a gorgeous porcelain complexion accented by soft hues. I do NOT want to be tan and anyone who thinks there is something wrong with me because I am NATURAL and HEALTHY and refuse to try to achieve a skin tone that is not my own, is the one who is sick. Good gravy. Why can't this product come in a really pale shade for people like me who aren't trying to fake some cheap tan? I don't WANT darker legs, I just want to make my formerly creamy white legs that way again. Waxing has done terrible things.

#7.2 Justine on 2012-08-18 02:14 (Reply)

whoa cool! nice cv for target wedges, xo

#8 Megan, The Frugalista Diaries (Homepage) on 2012-06-05 01:48 (Reply)

I have this product too! I've barely used it though because I'm usually horrible at applying things like this evenly. But I am definitely going to give it another try. Lord knows I like to be natural but these pale legs aren't good for anyone!

Thanks for sharing.

#9 Suzell Rodriguez (Homepage) on 2012-06-05 09:37 (Reply)

I like it, but the nozzles clog up before I can get both legs done! Like someone else commented, I try to do it outside, and then run back inside to rinse out the nozzle with warm soapy water. What a mess. Ideas anyone?

#10 Sarah on 2012-06-05 10:49 (Reply)

Hmm I didnt have that problem but my bottle is still very new, no clogging yet. I also applied outside because I sprayed directly onto my legs rather than into my hands (as the directions recommend), and yeah, it creates a fine mist just like spraypaint. When I'm using spraypaint, I usually use a damp paper towel to clean the nozzle. Maybe that would work?

#10.1 The Budget Babe on 2012-06-05 15:27 (Reply)

I am going to have to try this! BB -did any color transfer onto your skirt during wear? I will be curious to see how well it behaves when sweaty! LOL! I am a runner and that is probably the only reason I haven't tried a product like this! Would hate to see bronze sweat! Gross, I know. On a side note, I have that skirt and a denim.chambray shirt so I plan to copy this pairing!

#11 Robin on 2012-06-05 11:16 (Reply)

Good question, I didn't see any transfer onto my skirt but later I changed into shorts, and I noticed a little bit had rubbed off onto my leather car seats after driving for about 20 minutes (because of the heat, I think). My legs still looked okay but I had to wipe my seats - but it was just a little bit. I would probably not wear white shorts but as long as you're careful, you could probably wear a white dress and if you got a bit on the inside, it wouldn't be the end of the world

#11.1 The Budget Babe on 2012-06-05 15:19 (Reply)

P.S. As Kristal said, it will streak if you're sweating profusely so it might not survive a workout. I would just try it and see (and let us know what happens hehe).

Also, I was drinking bottled water and some of the condensation dripped on my legs - I wiped it off with a paper towel and the makeup was still intact. Just thought I'd share because you wouldn't want to be at a wedding or bar and have a little spill ruin your legs - don't worry, it won't!

#11.2 The Budget Babe on 2012-06-05 15:25 (Reply)

I bought this stuff and loved the results UNTIL I stepped outside in the Texas 100+ heat and it started streaking due to sweat. I believe this product to be best suited for wear when it's warm but not furnace hot outside.

#12 Kristal on 2012-06-05 12:01 (Reply)

Thanks for saying this. I'm in Texas too and its rather impossible to go out and not sweat. Unfortunate.

#12.1 Cat on 2012-06-05 17:17 (Reply)

wow. what a difference. your after looks great. I'm surprised at how even the color looks.

#13 rashidah (Homepage) on 2012-06-05 13:52 (Reply)

I feel a little better knowing I'm not the only one with ghostly pale legs. Thanks for the review. I think I'm going to try this product sometime!

#14 Roxanne on 2012-06-05 14:05 (Reply)

Hello, all. Long time reader here, but I never commented until now.

I have used this product for about 2 years. Let me tell you, it gets on everything! And it once got on the leather seats in my boyfriend's car, try explaining some goldish liquid on where you were sitting lol!

Anyway, I like that it hides imperfections and gives a nice sun-kissed glow to your legs. I just don't like that it'll rub off on everything. I usually try to apply it after I'm dressed so it won't rub off on my clothes as I'm getting dressed. Also a good idea to put it on with lotion because I'll end of looking ashy later in the day.

I use the deep. I'm Creole (like Beyonce) and have pale legs compared to my ethnic background, so I use it for special occassions or trips to the beach.

#15 Nimo on 2012-06-12 22:41 (Reply)

Wow...It looks great. When I saw Katie Holmes below I was thinking she could use some. Lol.

#16 Jess on 2012-06-16 21:53 (Reply)

Did anyone figure out how to fix the nozzle? Mine clogged/broke right after spraying both (thank God) of my legs FOR THE VERY FIRST TIME. The bottle is full and I tried washing it, poking it with a needle - nothing works. I don't have anymore ideas.

#17 Helen on 2012-07-05 20:37 (Reply)

@Helen I'd exchange it for a new one, sounds like you got a defective can. Don't take no for an answer!

#17.1 The Budget Babe on 2012-07-06 08:39 (Reply)

I was at the drug store the other day and came across Sally Hansen's Airbrush Legs but, in a lotion. It covers beautifully!!!

It is AWESOME!!!!!! and very easy to apply!!!!

#17.1.1 Willow on 2013-06-30 15:15 (Reply)

I have had this problem with at least 3 bottles. It is very frustrating.

#17.2 Greta Kennedy on 2012-08-13 22:55 (Reply)

Hello everyone:

I used the lotion version of Sally Hansen's Airbrush legs and what I do is add a few drops of red food color to the lotion. That way, I have more of a slight burnt look than an orangey look.

#18 Willow Star Love on 2015-09-04 15:11 (Reply)

Can suntan lotion be applied after rubbing in the airbrush lotion?

#19 Barbara ONeill on 2023-05-07 10:28 (Reply)

I would apply suntan lotion before the leg makeup (and give it some time to soak in). Hope this helps!

#19.1 Dianna Baros on 2023-05-12 17:00 (Reply)

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