Makeup tips: 5 common blush application mistakes that are ruining your makeup game

Who doesn’t love the natural glowing finish that comes after applying a blush? Oh, how that natural glow, along with the softest hint of hue makes your skin look so radiant! However, most of us make some common mistakes when applying blush, leading to an unflattering or overly dramatic look.

Here are the most frequent blush application mistakes to avoid and tips on how to fix them for flawless results each time:

• Picking the shade that doesn’t suit you

First things first. Do not choose a shade solely because it's currently in trend. It's very common to select the same shade that looked good on a friend or, worse, on a model on a digital ad! Remember that picking the right shade is the first step to achieving the perfectly balanced flushed look. So, which shades should you opt for? For a warmer skin tone, burnt orange and taupe shades with a hint of yellow pigment are more apt. Choosing a much lighter tint could give your complexion a greyish appearance. If you have a cooler skin tone, pink shades can brighten up your face.

• Overloading on product

The worst you can probably do with a blush is applying too much of it. To avoid it, begin with a small amount and gradually add more product as needed. In case you end up applying too much anyway, gently blot it to tone down the intensity and blend the colour using a damp makeup sponge.

• Using the wrong brush

The type of brush you use to apply your blush can make quite a difference in how it looks on your skin. Those little brushes that come with your palette won’t necessarily work. Instead, when opting for a cream formula, you have the option of using your fingers, a sponge, or a fluffy brush to apply it. Of course, make sure that your hands are clean and gently blend the product in by starting at the apples of your cheeks, working it upwards towards your temples, and applying a small amount on your nose. In case you are using a powder blush,  pick the appropriate brush for your desired outcome—for a naturally flushed look, use one that picks up less product, such as a fluffy brush. If you are looking for a more intense shade on your cheek, a firmer brush must be used.

• Practising the incorrect technique

Chances are you aren’t swirling your brush the right way! When applying blush, use a tapping motion rather than swiping it across your face. Tapping the blush in gives you an even coverage as the technique allows it to make contact with multiple points on your skin, rather than being concentrated in one specific zone. It's also equally important to combine similar products together. A powder blush, for instance, is not compatible with a liquid foundation as it may mix with your skin's natural oils throughout the day. Instead, use a matte foundation and setting powder to set it, preventing it from settling into any oily areas.

• Choosing the wrong formula

Another common blush mistake is not picking the right formula for your skin type. The goal is to get your desired coverage and prevent your blush from smudging, pilling or disappearing through the night. Opt for a powder formula if you want a healthy glow, especially if you have oily skin or will be spending time outdoors. For dry skin, a cream blush is a lighter option and can serve as a one-step makeup product—simply dab it on and let it sit on the skin. Liquid formulas provide a long-lasting flush that stays put all day, while gel textures are ideal for humid or wet weather as they absorb well into the skin.