Blush: The Comeback Queen in Your Makeup Kit
According to some experts, a natural flush is an indication of good health and vigour, so perhaps super flushed cheeks could be your symbol of physical well-being. While blush has been a beauty staple for centuries, the way we wear it today is a far cry from the looks flaunted by ancient Chinese courtesans and the 1920s flappers. Need I say it’s very demure and more mindful?
If you've been scrolling through TikTok lately, you've probably stumbled upon a wave of blush-obsessed creators; it’s called the “blush blindness." They’ve scrubbed, swathed, and slathered to conjure up concoctions and show us the perfect pink glow ever. Think Barbiecore, but make it blush. From cream blushes to cheek tints, the options are endless. Thanks in part to new, creamier liquid formulations like those from Rare Beauty or the deeply pigmented sticks from Rhode and Milk Makeup. Blush is like the little black dress of makeup—it's a versatile must-have that can be dressed up or down for any occasion.
But are you even wearing your blush the correct way? If not, we’re here to breakdown some of our favourite hacks, straight from the vanity bags of the top celebrity makeup artists, beauty entrepreneurs, and influencers. Trust us, your cheeks will thank you.
The palm-to-cheek method
Worried about looking flushed in the wrong places this summer? Fear not! Katie Jane Hughes, Hailey Bieber's go-to makeup artist, has the perfect hack to keep your blush game on point. Try the palm-to-cheek method. Warm up your blush on your hand, pick it up with a brush, and stipple it onto your cheeks for a natural, flushed look. And remember, most cream blushes are perfect for lips too. So go ahead and get creative.
Blend it like Laney Crowell
Laney Crowell, the brains behind Saie Beauty, is here to teach us the art of blush blending. Apply your base shade to the apples of your cheeks and blend outwards. Then, add a pop of colour to the lower part of your cheeks for a stained-glass effect. That’s it!
Blonzing
Tired of the same old blush routine? Alissa Holmes has a game-changing hack that'll make you feel like a sun-kissed island princess. Instead of applying blush directly to the apples of your cheeks, try using it as a bronzer.
The trick? Choose a rusty-orange shade, apply it to the high points of your face, and blend like a pro. This will give you a naturally tanned, sun-kissed look that's perfect for summer days or whenever you want to channel your inner beach goddess.
Let your mood decide the colour
Ever wondered how a simple swipe of blush can completely transform your look? Christen Dominique from Dominique Cosmetics spills the beans on the art of blush selection. According to her, blush isn't just a product; it's a mood changer.
Want to radiate a fresh, youthful glow? Opt for soft pinks and lavender shades. Craving a sultry, mysterious vibe? Plums are your go-to. Aiming for a sun-kissed complexion? Warm reds and oranges are your best bet. And for an effortless, everyday look, neutral mauves and rosy pinks are the way to go.
Pink under-eye blush technique
Like us, have you been obsessed with Gigi Hadid's naturally radiant, rosy glow? The makeup artist behind her flawless skin shares his secret: a unique blush technique that involves a little baking and a lot of blending. Blush on the apples, bake with white, add pink, and blend with a brush. Simple, effective, and easy.
The beauty-blender hack
Got a round face? Namrata Soni’s beauty blender hack is your secret weapon. According to this celebrity makeup artist, with just a few swipes, it can sculpt your cheekbones, add a radiant glow, and even give your face a more angular look.
