Blush Placement Tips That Make Such a Difference

Blush is the one product that can completely transform a makeup look with almost zero effort. But placement matters more than most people realize. Applied in the wrong spot it can make you look older, or flat, or just off in a way that is hard to pinpoint. Applied correctly it gives you that healthy fresh-faced glow that looks like you got a full night of sleep even when you absolutely did not.

Here is what I have learned about blush placement, and the products I use to pull it off.

Forget the Old Cheekbone Rule

The classic advice to suck in your cheeks and apply blush to the hollows works for some looks but it is not the only way. Modern blush placement is all about where you actually flush when you are warm or embarrassed, which is higher on the cheekbones, the nose bridge, and even the temples. This placement looks more natural and youthful than the classic stripe along the cheekbones.

The Draping Technique

This has become one of my favorite ways to wear blush. You take blush up onto the temples and blend it along the upper cheekbone almost like a soft contour in reverse. It frames the face and gives incredible dimension. Use a fluffy brush and build slowly. The NARS Orgasm blush is perfect for this because the color is universally flattering and blendable. Find it at Sephora or on Amazon.

Cream Blush for a Natural Flush

I have been reaching for cream blush more and more because it just looks like skin in a way powder sometimes cannot. The Milk Makeup Bionic Blush or any good cream formula goes on with fingertips, blends into the skin, and gives a glow that looks genuinely healthy. Apply to the apples of the cheeks and blend upward. Find cream blush options on Amazon.

Use a Blush Brush for Powder Formulas

A fluffy dome-shaped brush makes powder blush application so much easier and more natural. My favorite affordable option is the e.l.f. Blush Brush which costs under $10 and performs like brushes costing three times as much. Check Amazon for it.

My Favorite Powder Blushes Right Now

For everyday powder blush I alternate between NARS Orgasm (a peachy pink with gold shimmer that suits most skin tones) and the Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Blush in a warm rose shade. Both blend beautifully and photograph well. Rare Beauty is at Sephora and NARS is available at Sephora and Amazon.

Less Is More

I cannot tell you how many times I have applied blush, thought it was not enough, added more, and then ended up looking like I had a fever. Build slowly, step back and check in natural light, and remember that blush deepens as it sets. You can always add but you cannot take away without starting over.

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How do you like to apply your blush? Drop your technique in the comments below, I love comparing notes.

So glad you are here. xo, Pam