Pro Tip Series || You're making me B L U S H ||

Photo by Glamour Magazine

When it comes to writing blogs and sharing information, it's always my number one goal to make sure it's not information you've heard a billion times over. That being said - sometimes information needs to be reiterated throughout the changing trends and seasons.

I'm going to split this pro-tip blog into a few sections so I can go into detail for each new technique or tip. First topic up is BLUSH. One of the most overlooked parts of a makeup bag - and sometimes just all together completely forgotten. Blush serves so many purposes.... it makes you look younger, your skin looks fresher and your cheekbones look higher! An instant miracle product in a few swipes of a brush.

They often talk about the face as a metaphor for a pictures - you paint a pretty picture, and your brows are the frame... blush is the tool that allows us the definition/clarity in your face. The details in a photo. Though not required, blush - when used properly - makes a drastic difference.

Absolutely love the formula, color range and texture of benefit blushes! Some of my all-time favorites shown here - including dandelion & hoola! Photo courtesy of benefit Cosmetics.

For powder foundation wearers, try applying your blush before your foundation. This will give you a more natural blush look - like it's coming from your skin instead of just hanging out on top of it. Liquid is a little trickier - use cream blush under your foundation. Don't miss this -----> Foundation MUST be applied with a brush or beauty blender to make sure you're not just mixing it all up. Stipling is the preferred method, but gentle buffing would be okay too.

I stumbled across this photo on Pinterest & thought it was a perfect demo on how to place blush for your own face shape. Photo courtesy of Boots (UK).

For extra staying power, layer a gel or creme formula under your powder blush. This will also give you more depth and richness to the color.

When it comes to choosing blush colors, most of us females are often easily confused when faced with too many options at the makeup counter. Here's an easy way to find a perfect natural tone to your blush: using your thumb, press against your index finger right above the top joint on the inside of your hand (palm facing you) for a couple seconds. This will cause increased circulation to the pad of your finger. Use the color of your blood-filled finger tip to help find your natural blush undertone. Pigmentation can be as sheer or opaque as you prefer, but anything with this tone will work perfectly!

PRO-TIP: Use a bright pink or red tone to the apples of your cheeks (smile while applying to help you locate those pockets) and a coral/orange tone on your cheekbones. James Vincent, celebrity MUA & Director of Artistry for Ardency Inn, used this trick often on red carpets, photo shoots and runway. The warmer tone on the high points of your cheekbones creates an effect of heat rising. Check out some of the best summer blushes:

1. Milani Baked Blush in Luminoso 2. Too Faced Papa Don’t Peach Peach Infused Blush 3. NARS Orgasm Blush 4. Benefit Coralista Boxed Blush 5. Too Faced Perfect Flush Blush in Sparkling Bellini 6. Clinique Peach Pop Cheek Pop Blush 7. NARS Bumpy Ride Blush 8. Too Faced Love Flush Blush in Love Hangover 9. Charlotte Tilbury Cheek to Chic Swish & Pop Blusher in Ecstasy 10. Essence Silky Touch Blush in Autumn Peach || Photo by: @perilouslypale via Pinterest

This is probably the weirdest technique I've ever published, but just trust me on it.... The best time to stock up on blush?? Halloween. Yes, Halloween. Sounds crazy to use cheap drugstore makeup, but we're not going for the makeup section - head over to the special effects/face painting section. Fake blood makes the perfect cheek and lip stain! It's cheap, lasts forever and one tube will give you months of use. Don't forget to throw away after 6 months - keep it safe and sanitary. You can even make your own if it's not Halloween season. Check out the recipes by clicking here.

Have questions, comments or need some clarification on all things blush? Contact me via the contact tab or by commenting below. As always, I offer one-on-one and small group classes to give more personalized information and the opportunity to ask questions, select products, and instruct on how to use some supplies already in your makeup bag.

The next pro-tip blog will cover foundation & concealer - if you have anything you'd like to make sure I cover, submit those questions/comments by June 26!

Xo - jb

Posted by:

Jill Brooks

Beauty Expert & Image Consultant

Licensed Cosmetologist & Paul Mitchell Honors Graduate

Certified Makeup Artist | Lash Technician

Stylist at Salon South, Columbia, TN

Hair | Makeup | Wardrobe | Lashes

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