7+ tips for applying blush to help achieve a flawless look

Blush is a staple to every makeup collection. It's one of the original ways to make a face pop with new life, adding just a hint of color to stop the face from appearing washed out. Even though blush is one of the most used types of makeup out there, it's not always the easiest to figure out.
There are quite a few ways to make blush work for your face. It starts with knowing where specifically to apply the blush — yes, it goes on a certain part of your cheek — to choosing the proper shades and the correctly sized applicators. Blush doesn't have to be an intimidating part of your makeup routine, and here are a few ways to make it a bit easier.
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1. Apply blush on the apples of your cheeks to your ears
Blush is meant to accentuate your natural cheeks and add just a hint of color. It's important to keep that in mind not only with your application method but in the color you choose as well. Only you can figure out what works best with your face shape and skin tone, but here are some universal tips to help show you the way. You can find the tutorial here.
2. Be cautious with shimmery blushes
There's nothing wrong with wearing a little sparkle on your cheeks, but it's important to remember that a little bit goes a long way. For one, highlighter is not blush and should not be used as such. To avoid looking like a disco ball don't wear highlighter and a shimmering blush at the same time. If you choose to wear a blush with shimmer, use it sparingly and don't extend all the way to the hairline. Get the tutorial here.
3. Choose the right blush brush
When it comes to choosing a blush brush, size does matter. Using too small of a brush doesn't disburse enough color evenly, and using too big of a brush smothers the cheek with too much color. For powder blushes, using the right size blush is key to making sure your cheeks end up looking their best.
View the blush brush tutorial here.
4. Blush tips for round face shapes
Round faces are just as beautiful as any other face shape, and there are certain ways to apply makeup that help that beauty stand out more. Because of the circular nature of round faces, those with them should keep in mind where they place blush on their face. Instead of only putting color on the apples of your cheeks, which is less flattering, try putting it towards the higher points of the face. Be sure to go with a lighter shade no matter where you place it. Check out the tutorial here.
5. How to properly use a cream blush
If you've got dry skin, using any form of powder makeup can draw attention to flakey, dry patches. Cream blushes are best for dry skin because they blend more smoothly and add a slight amount of moisture to where you're applying it. Plus, cream blushes are more consistent with the natural oils in the skin, making the color resemble more of a natural flush than something you applied yourself. Get the tutorial here.
6. Which blush shade is best for you?
With so many shades out there, it may be hard to figure out which one will work the best for your skin tone. Ones that are too light will look too chalky on the skin, while ones that are too dark come off more like paint. Everyone has a natural pinkish hue, and the secret to finding it is within your lips. Find out more by viewing the tutorial here.
7. Smile while you apply blush
The right place to put blush may seem like a no-brainer, but there's actually a little bit of a science to it. Try smiling to find the best place to put blush on your cheeks. It doesn't take a super huge, wide smile, either — try a simple grin or smirk just to perk up the apples of your cheeks and provide a guide along the cheekbones. Find out more about it here.
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