How to Apply Blush

It's been a while since I've done an "How to post". I chose to tackle blushes as it may be one of the trickiest parts of make-up application, especially for a beginner. 

Blush should be applied with a light hand so that it gives a natural flush to the cheeks and not look overdone.

Blush can be applied in straight swipes across the cheeks and also in circular motions. Application techniques will depend mainly on the texture of the blush.

Here is a face chart, with different face shapes and where the blusher should be used.

It's wise to choose your blush type according to your skin type. Powder and gel blushes are good for oily skin; cream is best for normal to dry skin. Select a colour that will accent your existing best facial features and that won't overpower your face. Bright red may not look great on a pale person but can be terrific on a bronzed, brown or dark skin tone.

If you're pale, try a soft pink color or maybe even something with a little tan and pink in it.

Depending on your skin tone, you might need a lighter or a darker color. Dark skin needs a lighter color, whereas light skin may need a more natural color such as brown or tan.

Another key part of proper blush application is a good quality blush brush; never use a small, cheap brush. If you use a cheap brush, you'll have a cheap looking result. Avoid makeshift items such as cotton wool balls or powder puffs as these do not work well with the pigment in the blush and will result in you looking like a clown. If you’re planning to wear full makeup, don’t apply blush until the rest of your face is complete. Apply blush last.

Prepare. If you’re using a powder, lightly sweep a medium-sized fluffy brush through the blush and then tap it to remove any excess. If you’re using a cream or gel, dab a little on your ring finger.Start with just a little blush — it’s easier to add more to your face than to take off too much of it. Put a big smile on your face so your cheeks perk up (these are the apples of your cheeks) 

Apply the blush to the centre of the apple on one side of your face, blending the color along your cheekbone. If you’re using a cream or gel, dot the color first, then use your finger or a makeup sponge to blend it in. For the most natural look, always concentrate the color on the apples of your cheeks and blend outward well. 

Make strokes with the brush from your cheeks (from your nose) to the side of your face (towards your ears). Try not to make diagonal lines, as these won't appear natural but will risk being clown-like. Excess product can be blended toward the ear from the middle of the eye. Make sure to dust excess powder from blush before blending.

For a more youthful look, make sure to apply the blush on each side no lower than your nostril and no closer to your nose than your pupil.
If you accidentally apply too much powdered blush, cover it with translucent powder to tame the colour. Excess cream can be blotted with a tissue. If you overdo it with a gel, wash it off and reapply sparingly.

Repeat on your other cheek, taking care to match the placement and color of the blush on both cheeks. Aim for symmetry. Dust your face with a translucent powder to set your new look. The translucent powder brings inner warmth into the cheeks.

*NYX Cosmetics,  are available in Jamaica at Significant Details; Shop #34 Pulse Complex, 38A Trafalgar Road, Kingston 10. 876-906-5474