STYLE

Beauty

The newbie's guide to...blush


The finishing touch on any glam look? No, it's not lashes or lipstick. Wake your face by adding color to your cheeks. It's time to enroll yourself in blush 101, bb.

First things first...
Step #1? picking a blush formula. Think of it like choosing between watercolor paints or oil pastels in art class. 

Powder 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Want to look air-brushed? Here's your holy grail. A powder blush will help det your foundation and give you that Paris filter finish. If you're going the powder route, choose your tools wisely. "A fluffy brush gives you a sheer, buildable application while a firm brush deposits more pigment for a bigger payoff," says Sarah Lucero, Stila Cosmetics global executive director of creative artistry. 

Cream 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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If Glossier-level dewiness is your vibe, pick a cream formula. Tap it on with your fingers for a natural flush. "The oils in your skin and on your hands warm up the product to help push it into the skin," says makeup artist Meredith Baraf. 

Liquid 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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If your a fan of finger painting—and a pretty wash of color—liquid blush might be your jam. Some liquids leave a sheer stain, while others give you a strong hue (test the formula on the back of your hand first). "It's best to apply this with your fingers on clean, hydrated skin," says Lucero. The moisturizer underneath will help blend everything out. 

Pro tips
Pimple probs? If you're breaking out try to avoid shimmery finishes. "Adding reflection to an area brings attention to it," says Baraf. Opt instead for a matte powder blush. 
Placement is everything. To avoid an accidental clown look, make sure to apply strategically. "The brighter colors work best on the apples of your cheeks," says Lucero. "Softer shades look prettiest along your cheekbones to help shape your face."
Lip tip. "Keep your blush and lip color in the same color family," suggests Lucero. Color harmony = gorgeous!
Lighten up..."Always start slow and use a light touch," says Baraf. "Building up your color is much easier than trying to blend it away."

Hey, girl! Just wanted to let you know that this story originally ran in our April/May 2020 issue. Want more? Read the print mag for free *today* when you click HERE

6/9/2020 6:09:02 PM
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