A method of applying a heat-rejection coating directly on a substrate of a metallic component is disclosed. The steps include supplying a metallic component, such as of a gas turbine engine, before applying a reflective-coating mixture onto the component, wherein the reflective-coating mixture comprises a metallic pigment and a reflective-coating-mixture carrier, and wherein the step of applying is accomplished by a method selected from the group consisting of air-assisted spraying, airless spraying, brushing, and decal transfer. The component having the reflective-coating mixture thereon is fired to form a reflective coating on the component.