Where to apply blush to suit your face shape
The secret to achieving a radiant, flushed glow? The perfect blush. Keep scrolling to find yours.
Blusher is your cheat code for achieving a radiant glow all year-round. After nearly disappearing from the makeup scene a few years ago, there’s no denying that it’s made a major resurgence in recent months. Making frequent appearances in viral social media beauty trends and iconic red carpet looks, this mood-boosting must-have has now earned a permanent spot in our makeup bags.
While finding the perfect blush can be tricky, our beauty collection has a wide range of affordable blushers to suit your skin tone and face shape. Not sure where to start? Follow our guide below to find your match.
Why does where you apply your blush matter?
The placement of your blush will help shape, define and enhance your natural features. Below are the most popular areas:
On the apples of your cheeks: This creates a youthful appeal by adding a flush of colour onto the centre of your face.
High on your cheekbones: This lifts the face and creates a sculpted, more angular appearance.
Along your temples: Applying blush here can elongate the face and give it a more oval shape, great for creating a sun-kissed effect.
Do you know your face shape?
The first step to applying blusher is identifying your face shape. Start by pulling your hair back and looking in the mirror to analyse your features. Not sure what shape you have? Here’s a quick guide to help you.
Oval: Your face is longer than it is wide, with balanced proportions.
Round: Your face has equal width and length with soft, curved edges.
Square: You have a strong, angular jawline, and your face width and length are similar.
Heart: Your forehead is wider, and your chin tapers to a point.
Long/Rectangular: Your face is noticeably longer than it is wide, with a defined jaw.
Once you’ve identified your face shape, you can tailor your blush placement to accentuate your features and balance your proportions. Here’s where to apply blush based on different face shapes:
Round face
- Apply blush slightly above the apples of your cheeks and sweep it diagonally towards your temples. This creates the illusion of length and adds definition to the face.
Oval face
- Blend the blush onto the apples of your cheeks or high on your cheekbones. This helps balance your natural face shape.
Square face
- Apply blush just below your cheekbones and blend it upwards towards your temples. This softens the angle of your jawline and creates more of an oval look.
Heart-shaped face
- Sweep the pigment from the apples of your cheeks to your temples. This balances the sharpness of the chin and creates a more symmetrical appearance.
Long face
- Apply horizontally across the apples of your cheeks but not too high on the cheekbones. This helps to create the illusion of a shorter face.
Diamond face
- Blend onto the apples of your cheeks and sweep slightly upwards towards your temples. This highlights your cheekbones and helps soften the angularity of your face.
How to choose the right blush formula
Choosing the right formula depends on your skin type and desired finish. Keep scrolling for the breakdown:
Powder blush
Powder blush is a great option for those with oily or combination skin. Its versatile and easy-to-apply formula blends seamlessly into foundation while absorbing excess oil, making it great for all-day wear — especially in hot or humid climates. To apply, use a fluffy or angled makeup brush for a smooth finish.
Liquid blush
A rising star in the blush world, liquid blush is your ticket to creating a dewy complexion. A must-have for embracing the ‘clean girl’ makeup trend, use the applicator to dab 1–3 dots onto your skin, then blend with a beauty sponge for a flawless finish.
Cream blush
For those who are looking to achieve a natural, dewy finish, cream blushers are your go-to. This formula blends effortlessly into the skin and its buttery texture adds a touch of hydration for a radiant glow. Apply with your fingers or a stippling brush for the best results.
How to find your perfect blush shade
Unfortunately, blush isn’t a one-shade-fits-all product. The colour you choose should depend on your skin tone, undertone, and overall desired finish. With so many options to choose from, you can easily express your artistic side with vibrant hues. However, if you're looking for a subtle shade that’ll complement your everyday aesthetic, our list below shows which shades suit each skin tone.
Blush for fair skin
For lighter skin tones, it’s important to choose soft blush shades to prevent an overpowering (blush blindness!) flush. Blending a semi-sheer, baby pink hue onto the apples your cheeks and tip of your nose will create a radiant, wash of colour that can be built up to achieve a hyper-feminine glam.
Blush for light to medium skin
If you’re looking for a blush that will give you a flush of colour whilst sustaining your post-holiday tan, opt for a red-toned shade with brown or golden undertones. Not only will it add a pop of colour to your complexion but it’ll add a slight contour to your cheekbones — a win, win.
Blush for olive to tan skin
If your skin has olive or yellow undertones, choosing an apricot or peach-toned blush will add a pinch of colour onto your skin, without creating a muddy effect when layered over your foundation. Peach not your colour? Select a cool rose-toned shade instead for a softer finish.
Blush for dark skin
Opting for a blush in a bolder shade is key for achieving an ethereal glow. Vibrant colours such as cherry red or hot pink will give you a pop of pigment while enhancing the richness of your complexion. We’re obsessed.