Here's How to Pick Your Perfect Blush
Yes, a natural-looking glow is within your reach.
When picking out a blush, there are some questions you need to ask yourself first. Is your skin oily or dry? Bumpy or smooth? What season is it? All these factors come into play when finding your perfect glow-giver, according to Laramie, makeup artist and founder of Book Your Look.
Each type of blush has individual qualities that make it great (or not-so-great) for certain complexions and needs. But even if you've found your perfect shade and figured out how to apply it to according to your face shape, you still need to find the right format.
Note: Whichever type of blush you use, Laramie recommends layering similar products, i.e. don't apply a cream blush over translucent powder, or use powder blush over liquid foundation. Otherwise, you could end up with a less natural-looking finish. Read on to find out your best blush formula — and how to use each one.
Not only is it easy to blend, but it comes in a ton of colors, works well on people with larger pores, and is available at both low- and high-end price points. That said, it's not super long-lasting, so you'll need to reapply every few hours to maintain your glow. And while it works well on just about everyone, you should be careful using it if you bumpier skin (cream blush is better, see next slide!).
Best for: All skin types, especially smoother complexions.
How to apply it: Another benefit of this pick is that it's also the easiest to apply, provided you're using the right applicator. "If you're going to spend money on any tools, spend it on a blush brush!" advises Laramie. "It should be dense, natural or vegan hair, soft, and easily able to diffuse the color." Just add a little color to your brush, then sweep onto your cheeks according to your face shape.
Dewy finish and high-staying power? This balance makes cream blush an excellent option for nearly anyone. Plus, it's easy to use, comes in tons of colors, and gives the face a fresh, youthful look. Talk about a triple threat.
Best for: All skin types except oily.
How to apply it: Laramie recommends lightly swirling a small skunk brush into your blush, then stippling some of the product off into a tissue to avoid excessive application. Next, apply it with very light, short strokes, then use a damp makeup sponge to blend it.
"Gel blushes are great for summer," says Laramie, who adds that they're a quick way to bring a healthy glow to your face. The downsides: Gel blush doesn't last super long and typically doesn't show up well on deeper skin tones.
Best for: Light to medium skin tones.
How to apply it: Gently put gel on the apples of your cheeks and blend with your finger tips. Just make sure not to apply too much — it's easy to go overboard with this pick.
Want a dewy, long-lasting look that works wonders for your face in any season? Laramie recommends stain blushes, as they stay on all day and give you a natural, healthy radiance.
Best for: All skin types, people who tend to sweat.
How to apply it: Lightly tap the product onto the apples of your cheeks, then blend it with a damp makeup sponge. Be warned: Apply a little at a time — once it sets into your skin, it's hard to blend out. They don't call it a stain for nothing!
Pin This Handy Guide!
Add this handy infographic to your Pinterest beauty board so you'll never forget which type of blush does what — ever again!
Sam's enthusiasm for makeup is only rivaled by their love of all things relating to cats. In their spare time, they enjoy watching scary movies, putting avocado on everything, and seeing how many shades of the rainbow they can dye their hair before 30.
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