Getting cheeky

How to

Brush up on your blush technique

Blush application has the power to lift, contour and highlight the face for the ultimate cheek glow

WORDS CHARLOTTE BRUNDRETT

Know your ABC

Best for all ages, including mature skin

The ABC method went viral on TikTok as an easy way to understand blush application. It’s about applying blush in the shape of letters. Etch “W” across the face for a sunkissed look. Apply “O” on the apples of the cheeks for a youthful glow. Or apply “C” on either side of the face for a lift. Editorial and celebrity make-up artist Carol Mackie is a big fan of blush and is happy to see its revival. “I love all the new blushing techniques — it feels like there’s a new one every week,” Carol says. “To blush can evoke a diff erent feeling just by its placement. Each application is unique because I need to consider the face, client, show or shoot.”

Mid-tone matters

Best for those with full cheeks

One of the more interesting techniques to take off is mid-tone blush. This method involves a lighter blush used as a transition shade between undereye concealer and blush, creating a gradient eff ect that “marries” the colours in the mid-section of the face. Layering blushes will increase its longevity and intensity, and any formulations can be used. “Cream blush adds luminosity and is fl attering on dry and mature skin because it’s hydrating and gives a radiant glow,” Carol says. “Powders can sometimes intensify dryness or fi ne lines, which is why I prefer a mineralised powder with iridescent pigment, particularly since it catches the sunlight beautifully.”

Define & drape

Best for those wanting to lift and contour

It was originally popular in the ’80s, but Carol noticed the draping trend making a comeback after she worked at a Kenzo show in Paris. “Lynsey Alexander created this look where blush took centre stage and wrapped around the eyes,” she says. “Since then, I’ve seen the trend replicated in so many diff erent shades.” The more modern approach sees blush used in a similar vein to contouring, focusing on the outer lid and high points of the cheekbone for a lifted, modern appearance. Just be sure to stick to the same blush colour family to ensure the application looks seamlessly blended.

CHARLOTTE’S TOP FIVE

1 Nude By Nature Angled Blush Brush, $26.99; 2 L’Oreal Life’s a Peach Wake Up and Glow, $24.99; 3 Revlon Kiss Cloud Blotted Lip Colour Blush Much, $16.49; 4 MCoBeauty Cheek & Lip Tint in Blush Red, $11.99; 5 Flower Pots Powder Blush in Warm Wildrose, $13.99

ABCS OF BLUSH BY @HUNGVANNGO

MIDTONE CREATION BY @LD_MAKEUPARTISTRY

DRAPING AS SEEN ON ANOK YAI