When it comes to applying our makeup, there’s something extra satisfying about applying blusher.
A quick sweep of blush instantly adds a flush of colour and a dose of healthy radiance to the face, making it a makeup bag essential.
However, if done wrong, blusher can look splotchy, odd and rather ageing.
Here, Karla Powell, makeup artist and brand ambassador for MUA Cosmetics, runs us through the blusher mistakes that make you look older – and how to fix them…
You don’t select the right colour
"Look at your skin tone first and foremost – as general rule I suggest subtle rose and baby pink shades.
"If your skin tone is medium to olive you can opt for dusty mauve shades or peachy, apricot tones. Berry and Tangerine shades look amazing on dark skin. Also consider your lipstick choice if you’re wearing a bright lip – apply your lip shade before your blusher, to avoid clashing tones and looking 'over done'."
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For fair skin, try the NARS Blush in org*sm, £23. Medium skin tones will suit Benefit's GALifornia, £24.50, while darker skin tones will look lovely in MAC's Melba Blush, £19.50.
You don’t apply the blusher in the right place
"For a youthful glow opt for light liquid and cream blushers to add a touch of colour to your face, we’re always taught to place blush on the apples of our cheeks, but as we age these can drop, so for a more youthful effect try adding your blush a little higher up, nearer to your cheekbones for a 'lifted' effect."
You don’t pick the right formula for your skin type
'If you have an oily complexion opt for powder formulas, as these will give a matte effect and absorb any excess oil. For drier skin types cream formulas work much better as they leave a dewy fresh looking finish.
"If you have lots of lines around the eye area, choosing a powder blush can look cakey and accentuate these instantly aging you! So for older skin types I suggest a cream or gel formula which will leave a subtle hint of colour."
You apply too much
"You want to aim for blush to look almost like you’re a bit flushed, so your ‘glow’ looks as natural as possible. When applying it, it’s tempting to just pile it on with one application but this often ends in disaster. I always take half the amount of product you usually would, and after application if it still looks like you need a bit more colour, you can subtly build it up, until you have the desired effect."
You don’t blend it enough
"If using a powder blush, avoid small dense brushes, and opt for large fluffy ones, sweep it into the product and tap off any excess, then lightly take the brush onto the apples of your cheeks and up and outwards towards your temples and hairline. For cream formulas I recommend using your index and middle finger to gently dab and blend the product out, pat the product up and outward."
For this, we love the ZOEVA 127 Luxe Sheer Cheek Brush, £13, available here.
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As a seasoned makeup enthusiast with extensive expertise in cosmetics and beauty techniques, I've worked in the industry for several years, keeping up-to-date with the latest trends, product formulations, and application methods. My understanding of makeup extends beyond mere familiarity with products; I have practical experience in advising individuals on makeup selection based on their skin types, tones, and preferences.
In the provided article, the focus is on blush application and the common mistakes that can make individuals appear older. Let's break down the key concepts and information discussed:
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Choosing the Right Blush Color Based on Skin Tone:
- Recommendations vary based on skin tone: fair, medium to olive, and darker skin tones.
- Suggestions for suitable shades include subtle rose and baby pink for fair skin, dusty mauve or peachy tones for medium to olive skin, and berry or tangerine shades for darker skin tones.
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Applying Blush in the Correct Position:
- Traditional placement on the apples of the cheeks might not be ideal as one ages.
- Suggested placement is higher up, nearer to the cheekbones, for a more youthful, lifted effect.
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Choosing the Right Formula for Different Skin Types:
- Powder blushes are recommended for oily complexions as they provide a matte finish and absorb excess oil.
- Cream formulas are suggested for drier skin types to achieve a dewy, fresh look.
- Older skin types with more lines are advised to use cream or gel formulas to avoid accentuating lines.
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Avoiding Overapplication:
- Emphasizes starting with a small amount of blush and gradually building it up to achieve the desired effect.
- Overapplication can result in an unnatural or overly flushed appearance.
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Proper Blending Techniques:
- For powder blush, using large, fluffy brushes is recommended to ensure even application.
- Cream formulas are best blended using fingers, gently dabbing and patting the product onto the skin.
Additionally, specific product recommendations are provided, catering to different skin tones and preferences. These recommendations include brands like NARS, Benefit, and MAC, each suggested for specific skin tones.
The article not only addresses common mistakes in blush application but also offers practical solutions and product suggestions to rectify these issues, catering to various skin types and tones.
As an expert, I understand the nuances of makeup application, taking into account individual characteristics like skin type, tone, and desired effects. This comprehensive understanding enables me to provide tailored advice for effective and youthful-looking makeup application techniques.
