11 Life-Changing Blush Tips Every Woman Needs to Know

11 Life-Changing Blush Tips Every Woman Needs to Know

Kathryn Wirsing/Designed by Dana Tepper

Of all the beauty products out there, blush is one of the most effective at changing your whole look — just a pinch can make you look healthier, dewier, and more youthful. At the same time, it's one of the most confusing for many makeup users. Here's how to make this super flattering, and surprisingly versatile, product work for your face shape, skin tone, and lifestyle.

1. Use your face shape to determine the best application technique.

Blush affects the way your bone structure looks, which means you need to take your bone structure into account before applying it in the first place. Follow the super simple chart below for where you should be sweeping on your cheek color, or check out our more detailed guide.

2. Blot your blush with a tissue — not powder.

Many folks finish off their look by dusting a layer of translucent powder overtop, but makeup artist Laramie Glen warns that this can give your skin a dull look. Instead, blot your blush by holding a tissue to your cheek, then lightly pressing with a makeup sponge.

3. Pick a shade that works with your skin tone.

Blush isn't a one-size-fits-all kind of deal — you need to choose the right shade to flatter your complexion. Paler women should opt for light pinks and peach shades for a pretty flush of color, according to Glen, while golden and olive skin tones can aim for brighter hues with warm undertones like apricot to deliver radiant results. On darker skin tones, cranberry and bright apricot give your face an ethereal glow.

For more info, check out our guide to picking the best blush for your skin tone.

4. Skip shimmer if you have bumpy skin.

Shimmery blush can make skin look luminous, but Laramie warns against using it on uneven textures — the shimmer can magnify pimples, bumps, and large pores. For more textured skin, stick with matte finishes.

5. Make blush your ultimate multitasking tool.

One of the best things about blush: You can use it on any facial feature! Add a veil of pink to your lids, a healthy tint to your cheeks, and a sheer wash of color to your lips — all with one product. Follow our easy tutorial on getting this glowing look.

6. Always use primer to make your look last.

Primer isn't just for your T-zone — it's great for making your blush last, too. If your cheek color tends to disappear by the end of the day, use a primer prior to applying it. This simple step gives the color something to "stick" to, making it last longer and look more even.

7. Find the right formula.

Picking the right blush is about more than just the shade — you need to find the perfect formula, too. Powder blush is great for people with large pores and is widely available at any price point, while creams deliver a dewy finish and have high staying power. Gel blushes are a great choice for summer since they add a gorgeous glow without being greasy, whereas stains look dewy and last for ages, even if you tend to sweat quite a bit. For more details on how to apply each one, check out our ultimate guide to blush formulas.

8. Combine blush with contouring to slim a round face.

If you want to add a little extra sharpness to your jawline and cheekbones, strategically use blush, bronzer, and highlighter. Just make sure to blend, blend, blend — you don't want any harsh lines, particularly when this many colorful elements are involved. Follow our contouring tutorial to get a sculpted, yet natural, look.

9. Layer your formulas for long-lasting results.

Gearing up for a long day or a special occasion where you won't be able to touch-up your blush? Layer a powder blush over a cream or gel formula for a beautiful, customized look that won't quit. But remember: You're applying double the formulas, not double the color. Use each product sparingly to avoid going overboard.

10. Mute a bright blush with foundation.

Tone down a bold blush by applying a sheer foundation over it, rather than layering the blush atop the foundation as is standard practice. This gives your cheeks a subtle glow without looking too over-the-top.

11. Dot on a little lipstick as a makeshift cheek color.

If you're in a pinch and don't have any blush on hand, add a little color to your cheeks with a bit of lipstick. Just make sure to blend quickly — if it's a highly pigmented lipstick

, it could set fast and look blotchy.

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