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What makes blush such a game-changer? As with a bold red lip or rich eyeshadow, think of blush as the accessory that makes or breaks your beauty look — the right hue instantly amplifies the vibe you’re going for, but the wrong shade can spell complete catastrophe. Not only does blush add color to your face — mimicking the naturally pinkish flush that some people get when they’re cold or embarrassed — it also creates a bit of dimension and visual interest.
“Blush can add life to dull skin,” says AJ Crimson, founder of AJ Crimson beauty. “It’s like a touch of happiness for the cheeks. It also can be that pop of color one needs when they don’t feel like wearing a full face or to accentuate features.”
And just like with other makeup products, you can always switch up which blush you use depending on the occasion.
“Any time is the best time to wear blush,” says Renée Loiz, celebrity makeup artist and founder of Color May Vary. “From being a regular in your everyday makeup routine to adding more at the end of the day for a night out, blush comes in handy anytime you need it.”
The different types of blush
No matter your typical makeup style — whether it’s a more fresh-faced feel or a totally glammed out look — there are countless varieties of blushes to choose from, ranging from cream to liquid to powder.
“Cream gives more of an intense color and is good for drier skin,” Loiz says. “Powder gives a softer look, but can be built up for more intensity. It’s good to use in oilier skin and can be used on top of a cream blush to set.”
Want to go ultra-vibrant? Try liquid blush, which has a lot of pigment and doesn’t require much to truly make a statement. “You really need just a drop or two,” Loiz says. “But it sets quickly to the skin, so you have to move quickly to blend it out evenly.”
One option for a more low-maintenance look is a cheek tint, which easily blends into skin without leaving powdery residue. Tint offers a natural dewy flush to the cheeks and can also be applied on the lips, giving you a multipurpose product that you’ll get tons of use out of.
How to find the best blush for your skin color
So, how do you know which blush is best for you? It all comes down to your personal preference, advises LA-based makeup artist Natasha Maldonado.
“Powder blush works best for clients who prefer a mattefied appearance, whereas creams and liquids melt right into a dewy assortment,” she says. “Soft pinks and muted mauves work well with fair complexions — rich berry and coral tones play well with deeper skin tones. From my experience, I find that cream blush formulas add hydration along with pigment, which is often flattering on mature skin.”
Since blush is typically intended to mimic the color of the rush of blood to the cheek area, it can include any shade in the red, pink, peach and purple color families, depending on a person’s complexion.
According to Crimson, for pale to light skin tones, reds and light pinks work well. For medium to golden- warm complexions, light pinks and peach tones are a good place to start. And for deeper complexions, he recommends bright pinks, fuchsias, oranges and warm plums.
How to apply blush
Everyone’s blush-applying technique is different. The key to a successful blush application depends on the formula you use.
“With creams and oils, I love using fingers or medium-sized blush brushes and beauty blenders,” Crimson says. “For powders, I use a fluffy powder brush to apply light layers and build, especially if you are new to blush. Use a medium-sized brush if you have some experience.”
Looking to give your face a subtle lift? Apply along the cheekbone toward temples in a sweeping motion. If more fullness is what you’re after, smile and apply to the apples of the cheeks. And if you feel like you may have overdone it on the pigment front, never fear: You can always add foundation on top of the blush to diffuse the coloring.
Below, check out the 20 best blushes for every skin color that you can start shopping right now.
Hourglass Vanish Blush Stick
Best Blush Stick
A great option for beginners, Hourglass’ lightweight cream blush is super buildable and easy to work with. “The stick application practically makes applying blush foolproof and seamless,” Maldonado says. “I love to use this on brides — the silky cream-to-powder formula seeps into the skin, adding a natural pop of color for a timeless finish.”
NYX Professional Makeup Powder Blush
Best Blush for Fair Skin
A silky, light pink blush is ideal for fair skin, adding just a touch of color without being over-the-top. NYX’s powder formula is richly pigmented and provides lasting wear. It also has a bit of luminosity that’s striking all on its own.
