Where To Put Your Blush

The Blush Guide: Mastering the Art of Cheek Color Placement

Knowing where to put your blush might seem like a minor detail, but it's a crucial step in achieving a flawless makeup look. The placement of your blush drastically alters the overall impression of your face shape, impacting everything from the perceived size of your nose to the definition of your cheekbones. This comprehensive guide delves into the nuances of blush application, offering a step-by-step approach suitable for various face shapes and desired effects. We'll explore the science behind blush placement, answer frequently asked questions, and provide tips and tricks to help you master this essential makeup skill.

Understanding Your Face Shape: The Foundation of Blush Placement

Before diving into specific application techniques, it's crucial to understand your face shape. This acts as a roadmap, guiding you towards blush placement that enhances your natural features. The most common face shapes include:

• Oval: This is considered the ideal face shape, offering versatility in blush application.
• Round: The goal here is to create the illusion of length and definition.
• Square: Softening the sharp angles is key, aiming for a more delicate appearance.
• Heart: Balancing the wider forehead with a more defined jawline is the primary focus.
• Long/Oblong: The aim is to shorten the appearance of the face and add width.
• Diamond: Highlighting the cheekbones while minimizing the narrow forehead and chin is crucial.

Step-by-Step Guide to Blush Application: Techniques for Every Face Shape

Regardless of your face shape, the general approach involves smiling to locate the apples of your cheeks. However, the extent and direction of your blush application will vary.

1. Preparing Your Canvas: Begin with a clean, moisturized face. Applying a primer and foundation creates a smooth base for your blush, ensuring even color payoff and longevity.

2. Finding Your "Apples": Smile broadly to naturally highlight the fullest part of your cheeks – these are your "apples." This is the starting point for most blush applications.

3. Choosing Your Blush Type and Shade: Experiment with different blush formulations (cream, powder, liquid, stick) to find what best suits your skin type and preference. Select a shade that complements your skin tone. Generally, peachy and rosy shades are flattering on most skin tones.

4. Application Techniques Based on Face Shape:

• Oval Face: You have the luxury of experimenting with various placement styles. Applying blush on the apples of your cheeks is a classic and flattering choice. You can also extend the blush slightly upwards towards your temples for a more lifted look, or sweep it downwards for a softer effect.

• Round Face: Apply blush along the hollows of your cheeks, slightly above the apples, and blend upwards towards your temples. Avoid applying blush directly on the apples, as this can make your face appear rounder. This technique creates a slimming effect by elongating your face.

• Square Face: Apply blush to the apples of your cheeks and blend outwards towards your temples and slightly down towards your jawline, creating a softer, more rounded appearance. Avoid harsh lines; focus on seamless blending.

• Heart Face: Apply blush primarily on the lower part of your cheekbones, blending outwards towards your jawline and temples. Avoid applying blush too high on the cheeks as it can overemphasize the wider forehead.

• Long/Oblong Face: Apply blush horizontally across the apples of your cheeks, extending slightly outwards. This adds width to your face and creates balance. Avoid applying blush too high or too low on the cheeks.

• Diamond Face: Focus on applying blush on the apples of your cheeks, blending slightly downwards and outwards. This technique softens the sharper angles of the face and draws attention to the cheekbones. Avoid applying blush too high on the forehead, which might emphasize the narrowness.

5. Blending is Key: Use a fluffy blush brush for seamless blending, ensuring a natural and even finish. Always blend upwards towards your temples to avoid harsh lines. Pay attention to the edges of the blush application to avoid any noticeable lines.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Blush Techniques

Once you've mastered the fundamental blush placement techniques, explore these advanced strategies:

• Contouring and Highlighting with Blush: Use a darker shade of blush strategically to contour your face, emphasizing cheekbones and slimming the face. A lighter shade can be used as a subtle highlighter, adding dimension and brightness.

• Blush as Eyeshadow: Using a light, shimmery blush as eyeshadow creates a cohesive and natural look, adding warmth and brightness to your eyes.

• Monochromatic Makeup with Blush: Choose a coordinating lip and eye makeup to complement your chosen blush, forming a harmonious and polished look.

• Bronzer and Blush Combination: Strategically layering bronzer and blush can create a sun-kissed, natural glow. Apply bronzer along your hairline and under your cheekbones, and then blend blush on the apples of your cheeks.

• Cream Blush vs. Powder Blush: Cream blushes often offer a more intense, dewy finish ideal for dry skin or a more youthful appearance. Powder blushes provide better control and longevity, ideal for oily skin.

The Science Behind Blush Placement: Perception and Illusion

The effective use of blush is not just about aesthetics; it leverages the principles of perception and illusion to alter the appearance of facial features. By strategically placing blush, you can create the illusion of a more defined jawline, higher cheekbones, or a more balanced facial structure. The subtle shadows and highlights created by blush placement influence how light interacts with your face, subtly reshaping the perceived contours.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Q: What if I apply too much blush? A: Don't panic! Use a clean makeup brush or sponge to gently blend out the excess blush. You can also lightly dust translucent powder over the area to soften the intensity.

• Q: What blush shade suits my skin tone? A: Generally, peachy and rosy shades are flattering on most skin tones. Experiment to find what works best for you. Fair skin often benefits from soft pinks and peaches; medium skin tones can wear a wider range of shades; and deeper skin tones look stunning with berry, coral, or plum hues.

• Q: Can I use blush as eyeshadow? A: Yes! Many people use lighter and shimmery blushes as eyeshadows, especially in the inner corners of the eyes or as a highlighter on the brow bone. This helps in creating a cohesive and youthful look.

• Q: What brush is best for applying blush? A: A fluffy, dome-shaped blush brush is ideal for blending. However, angled brushes can offer more precise placement for contouring.

• Q: How can I make my blush last longer? A: Applying a setting spray after your makeup routine will help to set your blush and prevent it from fading throughout the day.

Conclusion: Embrace the Art of Blush

Mastering blush placement is a journey, not a destination. Through experimentation and understanding your face shape, you can transform your makeup routine, enhancing your natural beauty and creating a polished, flawless look. Don't be afraid to experiment with different techniques and shades to discover what best suits your style and preferences. Remember, the goal is to create a natural and radiant look that boosts your confidence. So smile, embrace your features, and discover the power of perfectly placed blush!