How to Choose Different Types of Blush

You were going for a faint flush and ended up looking clown-like and caked on. Next time, consider what type of blush you're using and how you're applying it. There's a perfect type for almost every make-up look.

Things You'll Need

• Blush type of choice (cream, gel or powder)
• Blush brush
• Makeup sponge
• Mirror
• Skin lotion
• Skin cleanser
• Washcloth
• Water
• Every day makeup

Instructions

Prepare Your Face

1. Start by identifying the type of look you're going for. Each blush creates a different look. Powder blush creates a matte, brozed look. Gel creates an instant glow that looks like you just went for a run. Cream blush creates a soft blush that doesn't have to be highly concentrated.

2. Wash and dry skin as usual. Pat dry with a washcloth.

3. Apply a skin lotion (noncomedogenic is best when apply makeup on top).

4. Apply all other makeup as usual, particularly foundation. The only makeup to apply after is pressed or loose powder.

5. Choose the type of blush you want to use and apply as directed below.

How to Apply Powder Blush

1. For a powder blush, you'll need to gather your blush and blush brush. It is best to use a standard size blush brush, not the tiny one that comes with the makeup, they apply rather unnaturally.

2. Sweep the brush across the powder. Pick up just enough blush to cover the top edge of the brush.

3. Smile and pick out the apples of your cheeks. Apply blush here first, until you've reached the hue you desire.

4. Sweep the blush over the rest of your face, your cheekbones first. Then lightly brush it onto your forehead, chin and nose.

5. If you have any edges of lines, blend with your hands or a makeup sponge.

How to Apply Cream Blush

1. Cream blush can be applied with your fingers or with a makeup sponge. If you're using your fingers, wash before so that you don't spread dirt and oils to the product and your face.

2. Pick up a dot of the blush, about half the size of a dime.

3. Apply half to each cheek. Smudge onto the apple of your cheek, again by smiling to to apply properly.

4. Use your makeup sponge or your fingers to blend in a circular sweep up your cheekbones. Blend thoroughly until it just appears as a healthy flush.

How to Apply a Gel Blush

1. Gel blush is a bit harder to apply, as it must be applied quickly and carefully. Think of it as applying a marker to your cheeks; when wet, you can blend a bit or smear, but once it dries, you're stuck with it.

2. Gel blush usually comes in a tube and is easiest to apply with your fingers. Squeeze a bit - just a tiny drop - onto your finger tip.

3. Touch to the apple of your cheek and begin blending immediately.

4. Continue blending until you look flushed. If the gel looks unnatural, you can apply a bit of lotion to your cheeks to force it to blend more.

Tips & Warnings

• Blush isn't only for your cheeks. You can use it to accentuate your brow bones on the line of your nose. Think of it as a highlighter for your face.

• Blush isn't the only way to create flush and depth. Bronzer is another type of makeup to check out to accentuate your features.

• If you're applying blush, consider skipping another type of makeup you typically use, such as eyeliner or shadow. Too much makeup can come off unnatural and garish.