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 getting a radiant glow all year long. After almost disappearing from the makeup scene a few years ago, there’s no denying it’s had a major comeback these last few months. With frequent appearances in viral beauty trends and iconic red carpet looks, this mood-boosting must-have has earned a permanent spot in our makeup bags.
Finding the perfect blush can be tricky, so our beauty collection has a wide variety of affordable picks 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 look by adding a flush of color to the center 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 blush is identifying your face shape. Start by pulling your hair back and looking in the mirror to analyze 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 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 pick the right blush formula
The right formula depends on your skin type and desired finish. Keep scrolling for the breakdown:
Powder Blush
Powder blush is a great pick for oily or combination skin. Its versatile, easy-to-apply formula blends seamlessly into foundation while absorbing excess oil, great for all-day wear — especially when it's hot or humid out. 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 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
Need a natural, dewy finish? Cream blushes are your go-tos. They blend effortlessly into the skin, and their 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
Blush isn’t a one-shade-fits-all product. The color you pick should depend on your skin tone, undertone, and overall desired finish. With so many options, you can easily express your artistic side with vibrant hues. But if you need a subtle shade to go with your everyday style, 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 onto the apples your cheeks and tip of your nose creates a radiant wash of color that can be built up for hyper-feminine glam.
Blush for light to medium skin
If you’re looking for a blush for a flush of color while keeping your post-vacay tan? Go for a red-toned shade with brown or golden undertones. It will add a pop of color to your complexion and you'll get a slight contour to your cheekbones — a win-win.
Blush for olive to tan skin
If your skin has olive or yellow undertones, an apricot or peach-toned blush will add a pinch of color to your skin, without creating a muddy effect over your foundation. Peach not your color? Select a cool rose-toned shade instead for a softer finish.
Blush for dark skin
Going for a blush in a bolder shade is key to an ethereal glow. Vibrant colors like cherry red or hot pink will give you a pop of pigment while enhancing the richness of your complexion. We’re obsessed.