Applying Blush

You probably have your routine when putting on makeup like every woman does. First the concealer, second the foundation, third the eye shadow. The last step in my cosmetics regimen, after filling in my eyebrows, is putting on blush. I think it's the easiest step and the one that really can pull together a look. Applying blush is really one of the simplest aspects of makeup and can make a world of difference. However, if done wrong, the consequences are not so pretty.

To put on your blush, use either the small brush that comes with the blush compact or (my preference) your own stiffer blush. You want a brush that's stiffer and not too loose because you don't want the blush to go everywhere; it needs to go on in small, more concentrated strokes. You want to pick a color that resembles your skin tone and won't contrast too sharply. If you're fairer skinned, go for a shade of blush that is a light dusty rose or if your skin is more on the olive side, feel free to go for some deeper shades. As with all makeup, blush should look natural and should contribute to your whole presentation; you want people to notice your beautiful face instead of just your blush.

When in doubt of how much blush to apply, err on the side of not quite enough; you'd rather have people not notice than notice something scary. Remember also that blush isn't like foundation—you don't apply it all over. I've seen people who tried that and it's an unfortunate look. The place to apply the blush is on the apples of your cheeks, the top of your cheekbones. If you go too low you could end up looking somewhat clownish—bad idea. It's more kosher to go higher, because it's not as noticeable as swinging too low. Your strokes should be light and shouldn't look like lines of pink on your face. Instead the strokes should create the effect of the blush blending in to your foundation. Again, blush shouldn't stand out but work together with the rest of your makeup to enhance your features and highlight your facial assets.

Blush is one of the most basic cosmetics and can do wonders to brighten up your look. It's not hard to do once you know how and then you'll always look dazzling and ready to go!