Say Hello to Rosy Cheeks and Sun-Kissed Complexions

Types of blush

There are plenty of product options to choose from. Here are some types to help you find one that’s ideal for your skin type.

• Liquid blush. This is ideal for dry skin prone to rough patches and flakiness because it hydrates and evens out your complexion. We love Saie’s Dew Blush Liquid Cheek Flush because it seamlessly melts into skin for the perfect natural glow.

• Powder blush. This is perfect for oily skin because it helps control shine. The powder absorbs excess oil and offers a matte finish that combats an oily sheen. We love KAJA’s Mochi Pop Blush because it’s as blendable as a cream blush with the finish of a powder.

• Cream blush. This is ideal for normal and combination skin. It has a thicker consistency that’s blendable like a liquid but typically less dewy. Jillian Dempsey’s Cheek Tint Cream Blush offers saturated color that instantly melts into skin.

If you have acne-prone skin, look for a non-comedogenic blush that won’t lead to clogged pores and breakouts. For sensitive skin, avoid blushes with added fragrances that could cause irritation. 

Choosing the best blush color

Your skin’s undertone determines the best shade of blush for your complexion. The color of your wrist’s veins under natural light gives the best indication. 

• Green-tinted veins → Warm undertone 
• Purple, pink, or blue-tinted veins → Cool undertone
• Olive, beige, or vermilion-tinted veins→ Neutral undertone

Once you know your undertone, choose a blush shade within that family. Cooler undertones pair best with light pinks. Go for a richer, more brown-based blush if you have warmer undertones. Neutral undertones match peachy blushes best. 

Applying blush

Blush is one of the easiest makeup products to apply. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you nail it first try. 

1. Prep the skin. Blush should be applied to moisturized, primed skin. If you want to wear foundation or tinted moisturizer, use this first. 
2. Choose your tools. You can apply blush with a makeup brush, sponge blender, or your fingers. Liquid and cream blushes are easily applied with your fingers and a blender, while powder blush is typically used with a brush. If using your fingers, wash your hands before and after. 
3. Load up your tool. For powder blush, swipe the brush through the product. Then, tap the brush on the side of the compact to remove excess powder. For liquid or cream blush, dab some on your fingertips or a makeup sponge. 
4. Apply. Blush is typically applied to the apples of the cheeks and along the very top of the cheekbone (below highlighter but above bronzer), moving toward the temple. Apply a small amount of blush to the top of the nose, tip of the chin, and middle of the forehead for a more sun-kissed look. 
5. Blend. Blend the color using small dabs with a circular motion toward the hairline, adding pigment as necessary.

‍

Final tips

• Use it sparingly. Blush is often quite pigmented, and it’s easy to accidentally use too much. Start with a small amount of product and build, blending as you go.

• Apply it after bronzer. We recommend applying blush after bronzer because bronzer may cover blush’s pigment. Blush also helps blend bronzer and highlighter, so it’s best applied afterward. Highlighter can go before or after, depending on how much you want to sparkle.

• Try different placements. Blush is very versatile — try using it as eyeshadow or to slightly contour your cheekbones for a unique makeup look. 

People also ask

What makeup products are usually used with blush?

While blush can go on a clean, makeup-free face, it’s usually used to add back your natural rosy glow after using other products. These are the most common products paired with blush.

• Foundation. This product often covers up your natural flush, hence why blush is used post-foundation application. 
• Concealer. This is used after foundation to cover specific red spots and dark circles. 
• Bronzer. Bronzer is used to contour the face and add a sun-kissed glow. Blush pairs well with bronzer because it helps blend it in. 

• Highlighter. This product brings out the high points of the face, like the cheekbones and brow bone. Bronzer, blush, and highlighter all work together to contour your face and add a dewy, natural-looking glow. 

How do you match blush with your makeup?

Use the same method we discussed above about matching your undertones with every makeup product. That way, every item will seamlessly blend together. 

What are the best tools for applying blush?

• For powder blush, we recommend a fluffy brush like Dose of Colors’ Large Powder Brush. 
• A brush with dense bristles like e.l.f.’s Putty Blush Brush is perfect for blending creamy blushes. 
• Use a makeup sponge like YENSA’s Skin On Skin Beauty Sponge for liquid blush. 
• You can also use your fingertips to apply blush — just wash your hands before and after.

‍

A healthy, glowing you

Adding a new makeup product to your routine is intimidating. Luckily, this tutorial will help make the transition seamless. 

To find your perfect blush and application methods, watch video reviews on Flip. Our community is trying out the beauty industry’s best products and sharing all the details so you can click “Add to Cart” confidently.