Blush has been said to be the one makeup product that women tend to avoid the most. I’ve even seen great makeup looks that would have looked even greater if only blush was used to pull everything together. Ladies, no matter how you slice it, blush is a must!
So how do you figure out which blush to use? Simple, read on.
Similar to finding the right foundation, in addition to picking the right color for blush, you must also choose the right formula. Here’s a quick guide:
Dry Skin: Creme blushes tend to be more hydrating and flattering.
Oily/Combination Skin: Powder blushes work best as any other consistency can tend to slide off on oily skin.
Normal Skin: almost any blush formula works including liquid and gel formulas.
As far as finishes are concerned, shimmer is good for a youthful glow however, matte is more forgiving on all skin types. Take care when using shimmer as it can make not-so-tiny pores seem larger than they appear.
After choosing the right formula, find the right color. Your most flattering shade of blush will be the color your cheeks turn after working out or you can pinch your cheeks and see what color they turn. I’ve created a handy guide for colors based on skin tones; pick a celeb below whose skin tone closely matches yours and try the shades I’ve suggested.
1. MAC Blush in Well Dressed $18 at MAC 2. NARS Blush in Orgasm $25 at narscosmetics.com 3. NARS Blush in Outlaw $25 at narscosmetics.com 4. NARS Blush in Lovejoy $25 at narscosmetics.com 5. NARS Blush in Taos $25 at narscosmetics.com 6. MAC Blush in Raizin $18 at MAC 7. NARS Blush in Taj Mahal $25 at narscosmetics.com 8. NARS Blush in Exhibit A $25 at narscosmetics.com
You can apply blush either before you put on foundation (for a natural look), or after foundation but before powder or even after foundation and powder–it’s up to you and your routine. To get the longest lasting blush, apply finishing powder on cheeks first, then blush, and then another thin layer of blush. For maximum color payoff (and to help blush last longer), first apply a creme blush first and then a powder blush in the same color on top.
Using an angled brush like MAC 168 Large Angled Contour Brush, smile and lightly sweep the blush on the apples of your cheeks and the top of your cheekbones. If you’re using a creme blush, apply with your middle finger and lightly tap your cheekbones and tops of your cheekbones then blend with your ring finger. Then follow with a light dusting of finishing powder.
Applying blush first before eye and lip color can help to determine how much eye and lip makeup you need. Often times you can get away with just wearing blush!
And there you have it, a quick and dirty guide on blush. No longer should you be afraid of blush! Keep it as a part of your normal beauty routine and your face will thank you ;)
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P.S. Don’t forget to enter in this week’s Urban Glamour Summer Beauty SUPER Giveaway! One lucky reader will win Stila Smudge Pot in Cobalt! Entries must be in Friday, August 1st at 11:59 P.M. EST. The winner will be announced on Saturday, August 2nd right here on myurbanglamour.blogspot.com! Stay tuned!
I’m going to set up a consultation with you to help me with this blush thing. Would lovejoy look good with my complexion?
Lovejoy will look hot on you! I have it in my kit so you can see for yourself. Email me and we’ll set up a consultation ;)
You are so right! I love make-up but I am terrified of blush! I recently decided I’m going to start embracing it, as I agree it truly pulls a look together well! Thanks for the tips!
Don’t be terrified, Jess! I took a peak at your blog and saw your pic (you’re such a cutie!) and that you like MAC–you should try MAC Blush Raizin or Loverush next time you’re at the counter :)
I just bought MAC blush in Devil. What would be some good eye colors to complement? I hate matchy-matchy makeup and clothes. Thanks!
Author
Wow—Devil is a hot color!
For a more customized recommendation, tell what shade you are—name a celeb whose skin tone is closest to yours.
Based on just Devil being such a hot color, with a light hand application of it, you can wear a smoky eye done with either black, navy, purple, or green shadow. Try MAC shadows Carbon, Graphology, Humid, Nehru, or Nocturnelle.
If you want more of a natural look with Devil, go for browns and bronzes.
I have Lovejoy, Raizin and Taj Mahal ;-) I love blusher and can’t get enough of it!
NARS Blush in Outlaw is just about the most perfect shade in the NARS catalog. Flattering with just a hint of shimmer, perfect!
I couldn’t find #3 NARS blush color Outlaw on their website
I’m still a learner…chai!