How to Apply Blush

Apply blush to your face to resemble the natural glow of your cheeks and watch the compliments flow in. A hint of makeup blush...and you can look fresher and prettier. The trick lies in choosing the right blush color and learning how to apply blush correctly. But often blush remains the most misused makeup cosmetic. When it comes to applying your blush, less is best. Learn simple tips and tricks to get the blush just right!

How to Apply Blush

Determine your face shape before applying blush. Concentrate blush on the center of the face for high cheekbones. A rounder fuller face looks good with dusty pink or rose blush at the outside of the face near the hairline. Smile into the mirror to find out the 'apple spot' on your cheek. Apply blush from this spot to your hairline, taking care to blend well. There shouldn't be an obvious patch or line of color on the cheeks.

Sweep powder blushes in one direction always. Always tap off excess powder blush before applying it on the cheeks. A dot of cream blush applied on the apples of the cheeks must be worked upon to blend with the hairline. A hint of shimmering blush on the highest point of your cheeks can add a hint of drama. Choosing a quality blush brush is the first step towards the right application.

Find a blush brush that is the size of the apple of your cheek for a perfect application. A full round blush brush can give a professional look to your blush makeup. A bigger brush gives better results - one with a dome-shaped head and generous fibers. For perfect blending or precise outlines, use a good set of makeup brushes for applying blush. Compact size blush brushes are too small and the bristles are not shaped properly. Do not use the same brush that is used for applying loose powder.

How to apply blush for round faces: Give an illusion of slenderness by applying blush in a sideways V on the cheekbones. Blend it well and add a bit to the chin.

How to apply blush for square faces: Soften the square angles of the face with dab of blush on the forehead and chin. Apply blush from the center of the eyes towards the cheekbones and blend.

How to apply blush for rectangular faces: Apply blush below the outer corners of the eyes so as to reduce the elongated square shape.

How to apply blush for oval faces: Apply blush to the prominent part of the cheekbone and blend towards the temples.

Blush Color

Choose blush to suit the occasion and the time of the day. What goes well for a dramatic evening can be over the top for office wear. For day wear, choose a lighter color than you would at night. Opt for pink shades in winter while in summer opt for peachy, warm hues. Soft natural pinks, beige and peach are ideal for a bright day. Pinch for cheeks for a second or two and check your blush color.

A blush shade that mimics your natural coloring will avoid an artificial and comical look. Keep your blush color in the same palette as your lipstick shade. Check out shades of blush in natural lighting. Discard old blush shades from your makeup box. Combine shades to come up with new ones - best suited for your skin tone.

Blushers are available in powder, cream or liquid and in a wide variety of tones. Liquid and cream blush should be applied before powder. Powder blushes are easier to apply than cream blushes. Cream blushes must be dabbed on each cheek and gently blended with the fingers. You can use a sponge to smoothen it. Cream blushes work best for dry skins. For oily skin, consider using powder blush. For rosier cheeks, consider gel or liquid tints. Liquid and gel blushes are great for oily skin. Blend skin stains fast since they dry very fast.