As we all know, applying makeup has become an artistic creation. Keeping this in mind, it is important to know that with so many types of blush to choose from, it might be helpful to know exactly what is out there. Also, what type of blush will work better for you based on your skin type and the affect you are hoping to achieve. Not only that, but where you place it on your face is also important. Lastly, using the right makeup brushes can be key in how blush is applied.
Blush Types
Bronzers
If you are looking to create a tanned look, then this is the way to go. However, if you have a darker skin, a bronzer will provide a natural blush look. Naturally, the lighter your skin tone is, the lighter the shade should be used. How and/or where to apply:
Cream Blush
Do you have dry skin? Cream blush may be the answer. The reason is that most cream blushes are made with rich moisturizing ingredients that will help provide texture and a luminous glow. How and/or where to apply: Cream blushes are applied over your foundation before you apply your face powder.
Gel or Liquid Blush
Gel or liquid blushes are great for those of us who have oily to normal skin. This is because these blushes are long lasting and are usually oil free and water resistant. If you have mature skin gel blush is ideal for that subtle look. Gel or liquid blushes can also be used by those of us who have dry skin due to their ability to be absorbed into the skin. Liquid is easier to smear while gel is thicker and more controlled. It’s also less likely to smear during the day. How and/or where to apply: These blushes should be applied over your foundation or bare skin to get a soft, fresh scrubbed look.
Powder Blush
Actually powder blush can be used on all types of skin, however, it is considered one of the best blushes to use on oily skin because it helps to reduce the shine. It is also the easiest of the blushes to apply and blend, however, it is also messy and can wear off easily. How and/or where to apply: Apply powder blush after your face powder to achieve a translucent glow. Apply the blush in a round shape in your cheek area and blend stroking the brush outward towards your ears but only brush in one direction. You may want to apply small dabs of the powder on your chin as well as your forehead with a slight blend to make the color appear more naturally on your face.
Shimmers
Shimmers are considered the best choice to use for night time wear. The reason for this is that a shimmer produces a natural shine and gives your complexion that beautiful glow. How and/or where to apply: Apply the shimmer carefully on the bones of your cheeks near your eyes. The shimmer can also be applied on the forehead, upper lips and inner corners of eyes to get that intense glow on your face.
Tint Blush
Tint blush is a type of makeup product that is spread onto the cheeks to give you that natural glow. Tint blushes typically are available in a light red or pink and comes in powder, liquid, and gel forms. When properly applied, a cheek tint will result in you having that healthy, natural colored flush on your cheeks. How and/or where to apply: Always wash your face to rid it of any dirt or grime. After washing and rinsing your face, apply a facial moisturizer to prevent dry skin. Next, apply your normal foundation if that is what you use, and then you can move on to applying the tint. For just a hint of color, dab a small dot onto the end of your finger. Then smile and find the apples of your cheeks (the round part that looks puffy when you smile). Next dab the tint onto the apple of one of your cheeks and use a makeup brush or sponge to spread it up and back toward your hairline. Blend it into your skin with a makeup sponge or the tips of your fingers after washing them off.
For a more prominent look, use a thin streak of tint rather than the dot. Spread the thin line from the apple of your cheek up toward the hairline at an angle. Next blend the tint into your skin with a makeup sponge or brush.
As for what color to choose for your skin tones, you might want to consider the following:
- Fair: Cotton candy colored pink, mauve, or a reddish pink. If the shade is bright be sure to blend it well.
- Medium: Peach, russet, and brick are the more flattering shades especially if you have olive or caramel complexions.
- Dark: Sheer berry, red, and wine.
If you haven’t been using blush for a while, go for it. Don’t be afraid to give it a try and go easy at first. Blush can actually help your skin to look more alive and draw more attention to your eyes in a positive sparkling way.