Blush is often forgotten when it comes to makeup, but its benefits cannot be underestimated. The right blush can accentuate your blush, making you look younger, healthier and prettier in no time. Even so, many women feel unsure about choosing the right type of blush and how to use it. Don't worry - start with Step 1 below to learn all about applying blush!
Step
Part 1 of 2: Choosing Blusher
Step 1. Choose a color that matches your skin tone
When choosing a blush color, making sure it matches your skin tone is important.
- This means that the color you choose should be as close as possible to the color of your cheeks when you are blushing naturally. Choosing a color that doesn't suit your skin will make your blush look unnatural and even too flashy.
- One of the best tips for determining the color of your natural cheek tone is to clench your fists for about 10 seconds. The color that appears around your fist is the perfect color for your blush!
- In general, people with pale skin prefer bright pinks that mimic the color of their natural cheeks. To create a more dramatic look, peach and mocha tones are also suitable.
- Yellowish skin tones will work well with an orange or pinkish blush that will lighten the skin, and give it a healthy tone.
- Dark skin tones will go well with bright oranges, pinks, and reds that will make you look fresh and radiant.
Step 2. Determine the type of blush
There are many blush formulas available in the market, including powders, creams, gels, and liquids. The best choice for you will depend on your skin type and preferences.
- Powder blush is suitable for oily to normal skin. This blush is also suitable for warm environment, because it will not fade from the face.
- Cream blushes are suitable for drier skin as they are more moisturizing. This blush is also suitable for older skin, as it won't get trapped in fine lines and wrinkles like powder blush.
- Liquid and gel blushes are perfect if you want a precise and long-lasting look. Often this product can also be used as a lip blush.
Step 3. Buy a sponge/brush to use it
The best tool for applying blush depends on the type of blush you are using:
- Powder blush is best used with an angled blush brush or a wide, fine powder brush.
- Cream blush is best used with your fingers or with a medium-sized flat brush.
- Liquid and gel blushes are best used with your fingers, or with a synthetic makeup sponge.
Part 2 of 2: Using Blusher
Step 1. Choose a well-lit location
It's important to use blush in a well-lit room, otherwise you might use too little of it. Natural light is best, but a well-lit bathroom or a lighted dressing table will do the trick.
Step 2. Apply primer and foundation first
Blush should be used after applying primer and foundation. A coat of primer will neutralize skin redness and keep you looking fresh for longer, while foundation will even out skin tone, and give your face a flawless look.
Step 3. Apply blush according to your face shape
While traditionally blush is only used at the top of the cheekbones, this method is not suitable for everyone. You should consider your face shape when applying blush:
-
round face:
To make them appear thinner, apply blush to your cheekbones (which you can find by pulling your cheeks like a fish), and spread it upwards and forwards toward your temples.
-
Long face:
To soften a long face, apply blush slightly below the top of your cheekbones (the circular part), but don't go too far down.
-
heart shape face:
To balance a heart-shaped face, apply blush at the top of your cheekbones and run it through your hair.
-
Square shape face:
To soften a square face, apply blush straight across your cheeks, starting about 2.5 cm from either side of your nose.
-
Oval shape face:
For an oval face, you can apply blush at the top of your cheekbones, and blend it around the edges. To locate the top of the cheekbones, all you have to do is smile!
Step 4. Use the right technique
The technique of applying blush will vary according to the type of blush and the tool you choose.
-
Powder blush:
To give your blush a powdered form, tap the brush against the powder blush, then tap the handle to remove any excess. Use circular motions to apply powder to your cheeks.
-
Cream blush:
To give your blush a creamy look, tap a flat brush or your finger into it, and then sweep it onto the part of the cheek you're aiming for. After that, use circular motions to spread the cream from outside to inside your cheeks.
-
Liquid or gel blush:
Use your fingers to apply two dots (or more) of liquid or gel blush to your cheekbones, then use your ring finger or a synthetic sponge to apply the product in a patting motion.
Step 5. Know how much blush to apply
Most people are afraid of using too much blush, so they tend to use too little.
- However, you need to make the color stand out - don't let the color blend into your skin like foundation.
- Keep in mind that it's easier to add more blush than to take it off. As such, you should use it a little at a time, layer by layer until the color is just a notch or two above what you think is natural.
- If you accidentally add too much, use a dry cloth to remove some of the color.
Step 6. Complete with translucent powder
To complete your makeup, prepare a translucent powder that is slightly shiny.
- Use a small brush to brush a small amount of powder on the outer corner of the eye, then in a circular motion, blend it over the top edge of the blush.
- This will define your cheekbones and help your blush look more natural.
Step 7. Understand the difference between blush and bronzer
Some people don't understand the difference between blush and bronzer, and how to use each.
- Blusher is used to tone your cheeks and make your cheeks appear brighter, as if they were a natural blush. While bronzer is used to give a healthy, radiant look to the entire face.
- To apply bronzer, use a powder brush to apply a thin layer over the areas of the face that are exposed to natural sunlight - the forehead, chin, and bridge of the nose.