The surprising new way to apply blush

new way to apply blush

And it promises to make you look younger

Beauty Crew Beauty Writer / May 15 2018

If you’ve spent your life only applying blush to the apples of your cheeks, it’s time you upgraded your technique. While we were backstage at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week here in Australia, we learned some invaluable insights into how to apply blush from both Claire Thompson, Guerlain Makeup Director for the Lee Matthews Resort 18/19 show, and Lancôme National Makeup Director, Lara Srokowski who created the makeup look for the Thomas Puttick Resort 18/19 show.

“If you’re tired of the doll-like, overly-girly effect that only applying blush to the apples of your cheeks creates, try sweeping a subtle wash of colour across the nose and where the sun would naturally hit,” says Thompson.

Srokowski adds her own hot tip for where you should be applying your blush: “by applying blush to the high points of the face, you’re able to create that coveted lifted and overall more youthful effect, while still keeping it subtle and fresh.”

In addition to warming up the complexion without looking overly ‘done,’ these two techniques are a “new take on the classic bronzed look, perfect for those wanting to channel effortless French-girl chic,” explains Thompson.

If you want to try the look for yourself, Thompson suggests using a cream blush or lipstick instead of a powder formula. Her go-to is Guerlain Rouge G de Guerlain Lipstick in the shade 555, however we also love Lancôme L’Absolu Rouge Sheer in 321 and Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balm in Rose.

If you go down the lipstick route, it’s important to choose a balm version or one with a sheer formula that can be easily blended out with either your fingers or a foundation brush. Also, keep the application light then build the intensity of colour slowly.

This technique is perfect for those who want to trade in their summer bronzer for a more winter-appropriate flush of colour, or anyone wanting to ensure their blush doesn’t look too obvious or overdone.  

Want more backstage tips from the beauty industry’s best? Then discover the genius way to add effortless volume to your hair without the need for a hot tool.

Have you tried this makeup technique before? Share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments below.

Main image credit: Supplied

Kate started working for BEAUTYcrew in early 2016, first as a contributor, and was then named Beauty Writer in 2017. She loves picking the brains of the industry's top experts to get to the bottom of beauty's toughest questions. Bronze eyeshadow palettes are her weakness and she's forever on the hunt for the perfect nude nail polish to suit her fair skin. Her words can also be found in Men's Health magazine, and she now works in PR.