How to Apply Blush Perfectly

Learn how to apply blush and you'll have a healthy glow that flatters your face whenever you need it.  Thanks to blush makeup, you don't have to do cardio or stand out in the cold to achieve that look. To get a natural blush effect, you need to know which blush suits your skin type and how to apply blush.

Type of Blush
The style and color of blush you use depends on your skin tone, skin texture and general beauty preferences. Blush comes in two main categories, dry and wet. Dry blushes feature powders and minerals, and wet blushes include gel or cream selections. Dry or wet, you can always find heavy or sheer blush options.

Powder blush. Powder blush is the most popular type of blush sold. It can be any hue, and very easy to blend. The powder works well for most skin types, but is particularly good for oily skin. The drawback of powder blush is that it usually contains some talc, which can irritate sensitive skin as well as make wrinkles stand out.

Mineral blush. Mineral blush is the hottest new trend in the blush market. It replaces the traditional talc powder with healthy minerals that many companies claim will help improve your complexion. It's as versatile and as easily blended as powder blushes, but it can still sink into wrinkles.

Gel and liquid blush. Gel and liquid blushes are popular for their staying power and concentrated color. They blend well when properly applied, but they dry quickly and often end up looking smeared or clownish if not done right. These blushes can be waterproof, and they can also combat excessively oily or sweaty skin.

Cream blush. Cream blushes are also well known for their concentrated color and long wear. The chief benefit of cream blushes is that they can contain moisturizers, which are perfect for dry skin. Since the blush requires only a small amount, creams are also great for saving space and money.

Color
Once you know the texture of blush that works best on your skin, you now need to choose a perfect color. Blush hues should always match the color your cheeks really turn when flushed with blood. If an exact match cannot be found, then you should use something that complements or highlights your natural color.

If you're not a fan of your natural cheek color, you can also match your blush to your lipstick. The best way to do this is to find a hue containing elements of both your natural flushed skin and your lipstick tone. This trick will tie the assorted cosmetics together.

Whatever hue you choose, remember that blush can also be divided into day and night tones. Day tones are usually a lighter and brighter shade of your perfect blush color. Night tones are typically a darker and smokier shade of your perfect blush color.

Another way to transform your blush into a highly personalized color is to add a little bronzing powder to the area before or after the blush. This not only helps create a tanned tone, but it can also add a little depth to your blush if used sparingly. Nevertheless, bronzer should never be used as an outright replacement for any blush, as it won't look natural.

How to Apply
Remember to apply your blush lightly, since it's always easy to add a little more. If you put too much blush on, fixing it can require washing your face and starting your makeup all over again, which can be a real drag if you are in a hurry. Whatever the amount, always make sure to blend your blush in after application so the hue doesn't seem too harsh.

Cream, gel and liquid. If you're using a cream or gel blush, it's best to apply it with your fingertips on the apple of the cheek, and then sweep it toward the temple. Just make sure to wash your hands well before and after application.

Like any blush, you should always blend the color after initial application. Make sure to use different fingers to blend than you used to apply; otherwise, you'll just be caking on more blush.

Powder and mineral. If you're using a powder or mineral blush, it's best to apply it with a brush on the apple of the cheek, and sweep toward the temple. These blushes call for a soft oval or round brush. Lightly dust the brush into the blush, and then tap off any excessive powder. Repeat the process as needed to create the shape and shade desired. Use a separate large and fluffy brush to blend the color in after the initial application.

Where to Apply
Always smile or suck in your cheeks when applying blush. It helps reveal your natural cheekbone and the "apple" of your cheek. The apple is that rounded front part of your cheek, near the nose. Never apply blush on your lower cheek. That will make you look old and haggard. Also avoid stripes of blush. You may think you are accentuating your cheek bones, but you're only giving yourself "blush bars."

If you have a round face, try to sweep upward from the apple of the cheek to the temples. This will help create a more angular appearance. It also helps create a slimming look, which is useful for thicker faces. If you have a thin face, try applying your blush more outward than upward from the apple of the cheek. This will help create the illusion of width.

Anyone with a triangular face can break the rules a bit. Sweep the blush in a triangle, widening toward the temple and the jaw. The back, lower cheek should have a little color to help add the appearance of width at the jaw line.