We all know how contouring or bronzer can help snatch our face - but now, according to the hundreds of beauty gurus on TikTok, blush can have the same effect! And with Spring in bloom, the dash of pink across our face will not only life the face, but it will give us that ultimate sunkissed look. Here's how to apply the product for the perfect enhanced look...
Before we dive deep into the application process of a pigmented pink or red hue, let's discuss the base of the face. Always start off with clean and hydrated skin. And we're not just talking the classic moisturizer before any makeup touches the face. Instead, celebrity makeup artist, Sir John, suggested applying it both before and after you have your foundation on! This way, the blush will apply and sit atop the skin perfectly. "The best time to apply blush is when the skin is still wet," he shared. "The extra layer of hydration makes it softer."
Okay, now let's finally get into the star of the show. When it comes to picking a color, it's not a one size fits all. Every skin tone is gonna require a different shade of blush. "Use blush shades that are no more than two to three shades darker than your natural [flushed] tone, otherwise, you will find it difficult to blend," explained makeup artist Naoko Scintu. People with fairer complexions should choose muted hues, such as baby pink or peachy pink. Warmer complexions should opt for brighter tones. Scintu also revealed that for a more defined look he recommends a darker color on the inner cheeks and a lighter one more on top towards the outside of the face.
When it comes to the type of blush, makeup artists recommend a liquid stain blush. "They give the most natural, non-cosmetic effect, adding an awoken quality to the skin," said Cara Delevingne's MUA, Romy Soleimani. But of course, cream ones are great too. We just have to ensure the blending is done right! "I like to start in with cream blush on my fingers so you can really feel your cheeks, with an added bonus of creating a natural flush through circulation," explained Soleimani. And to further ensure it is one with the skin, she suggests a small fluffy brush to blend in a circular direction. "It will help make you look like you're naturally blushing."