What Color Blush Should I Wear for My Skin Tone & How to Do It Well
Dante Kim
May 25th, 2024
Get your color analysis done
in 60 seconds with WhatColors!
Get your color analysis done in
60 seconds with WhatColors!
Get your color analysis done in 60 seconds with WhatColors!
Selecting blush can be quite a task but if you are here to find out the key factors you need to consider while picking out the perfect blush, then you are in the right place! We are breaking down the key points to consider when considering the question: What color blush should I wear? or How to Find Colors That Suit You? So, keep reading to get the answers!
Table of Contents
What Is Blush Makeup?
Blush, also called blusher or rouge, is a cosmetic product applied to the cheeks. Typically found in shades of pink and red, blush can also be found in oranges, browns, and non-traditional colors such as purples and blues. The name “blush” comes from the term blushing, referring to the sudden redness of the cheeks when there is increased blood flow to the area – like when someone is embarrassed. Blush gives a rosy appearance to the face, making the wearer look naturally glowing and healthy.
Types of Blush: Cream and Powder
Cream Blush
Cream blush is a cream product in various types, such as sticks, tubes, or pans. It can be purchased in a blush palette or as individual shades. Cream blush is best applied with a sponge, fingers, or stippling makeup brush. Because it is a cream product, it will dry down, so some formulas may dry quickly, requiring you to blend it into your skin rapidly.
Cream blush is ideal for those with dry or mature skin, who prefer a dewy or natural blush, like applying products with fingers or stippling brushes, use a lot of other cream products to maintain a cohesive look on the face, and have the time to blend out the product nicely.
Powder Blush
The most popular blushes are pressed powder blushes, although loose powder blushes are also available. Powder blushes should be applied with a makeup brush, preferably a fluffy round or angled brush for easy and quick color dispersion over the entire cheek.
Powder blush is available in blush palettes and single shades. It is recommended for individuals with oily skin who use lots of powder to set the face, prefers quickly swiping on color with a fluffy brush, like a shimmery blush, and want the color to last throughout the day.
Does Blush Depend on Skin Tone or Undertones?
When choosing the right blush shade, it's essential to consider your skin's undertones. There are three main undertones: cool, warm, and neutral. The key to finding the perfect blush color is to select one that complements your undertones, ensuring a natural and flattering look.
Cool, Warm, and Neutral Undertones Explained
Understanding your skin's undertones is crucial in determining the ideal blush shade. The three main undertones are cool, warm, and neutral. You can identify your undertone in several ways, such as observing how your skin reacts to white clothing or analyzing the color of your veins.
Determining Your Skin's Undertone
There are various methods to determine your skin's undertone. One simple way is to wear a white T-shirt and observe how your skin looks. If your skin appears pink or rosy, you likely have cool undertones. If your skin looks more yellow, you probably have warm undertones. Another indicator is your skin's appearance in off-white hues compared to stark white. If off-white complements you better, you likely have warm undertones. If both colors look equally good, you have a neutral undertone.
Another way to identify your undertone is by checking the color of your veins. Blue veins typically indicate cool undertones, while green veins suggest warmth.
Choosing Blush Shades Based on Your Undertones
The best approach to selecting a blush shade is to choose colors that match your undertones for a natural look. If you're looking for a more striking appearance, choose a blush shade contrasting with your undertones.
When selecting a blush shade for a natural look, choose one that aligns with your skin's undertone. Opt for a blush shade that differs from your natural undertone for a bolder appearance.
Unlock Your Colors and Transform Your Style with WhatColors
WhatColors helps you find the perfect colors based on your skin tone. Discover your season and get personalized color recommendations for clothing, makeup, and more with our AI Personal Color Analysis app.
Download WhatColors for free on the App Store or Google Play store and unlock your colors to transform your style today.
Related Reading
• How To Know What Colors Look Good On You
• What Color Lipstick Should I Wear
• What Colors Look Good On Pale Skin
• Colors That Go With Tan
• What Color Jewelry Should I Wear
What Color Blush Should I Wear for My Skin Tone?
For fair-skinned individuals, lighter shades like light pink or peach are ideal for warm undertones. A baby pink shade is an excellent choice for fair skin tones with cool undertones. When opting for a coral blush or another bright hue, apply it lightly to create a sheer layer of color.
Some popular blush shades that work well for fair skin are:
NARS Blush in "Orgasm"
Milani Baked Blush in "Luminoso"
Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush in "Exposed"
The Best Blush for Medium Skin
Medium skin tones can rock shades like pink, peach, and bronzy tones. With the flexibility to explore richer colors due to a mix of warm and cool tones, medium skin tones can experiment with various hues. Peach tones are flattering for medium skin with neutral undertones, offering a blend of warm and cool tones. For a youthful pop of color, try a mauve or berry shade.
Some blush options for medium skin include:
Benefit Cosmetics Dandelion Box o’ Powder Blush
MAC Powder Blush in "Melba"
Milani Baked Blush in "Berry Amore"
The Best Blush for Olive Skin
Olive skin tones can elevate their complexion with deep shades such as plums, bright corals, vibrant pinks, and lush brown hues. With warm and cool undertones, olive skin looks stunning in richly pigmented shades, avoiding pale, cool-toned hues.
Some blush shades that complement olive skin tones are:
NYX Professional Makeup High Definition Blush in "Crimson"
L'Oréal Paris True Match Blush in "Spiced Plum"
e.l.f. Cosmetics Powder Blush Palette in "Dark"
The Best Blush for Dark Skin
Dark skin tones with warm undertones should opt for richly pigmented shades like red, magenta, and orange. Warm shades of brown and Bordeaux are also gorgeous picks for dark skin. If you have dark skin with cool undertones, try a purple or berry shade with blue undertones. Avoid cool-toned, pale blush shades like light pink.
Some blush options for dark skin include:
Black Radiance Artisan Color Baked Blush in "Toasted Almond"
Maybelline Fit Me Blush in "Mauve"
CoverGirl Cheekers Blendable Powder Blush in "Deep Plum"
Should I Pick a Blush With Warm Undertones or Cool Undertones?
When choosing between warm- and cool-toned blushes, examine the shade and identify the colors mixed throughout. For instance, coral shades typically have yellow undertones, while berry shades often contain blue undertones. Peachy shades combine warm and cool tones, making them a solid choice for those with neutral undertones.
Related Reading
• What Color Should I Wear
• Best Colors For Olive Skin
• Colors For Cool Undertones
• Best Colors For Warm Undertones
• What Colors Look Good On Tan Skin
• What Colors Look Best On Brown Skin
• Best Colors For Cool Undertones
• Best Colors For Warm Skin Tone
• What Season Am I
• What Color Looks Best on Me
• What Is My Color
• How to Find Your Color Palette
• What's My Color Palette
• What Color Season Am I
14 Tips for Applying Blush Perfectly, Every Single Time
1. Prepping Your Skin
To ensure flawless blush application, it's essential to prep your skin properly. Start by washing and moisturizing your face to create a smooth canvas for your makeup. If you have dry or oily skin, taking care of your skin is crucial for makeup to blend seamlessly. Use a makeup primer to help makeup last longer or layer blush on top of foundation or tinted moisturizer to enhance longevity.
2. Picking the Right Blush Color
Choosing the right blush shade for your skin tone can significantly affect your overall look. Opt for light pinks if you have pale, fair skin, peachy pink for light-medium skin, bright hues for golden or olive skin tones, and apricot or coral shades for darker skin tones. Selecting the right color can give you a natural, youthful glow that complements your complexion.
3. Finding the Perfect Blush Formula
In addition to selecting the right shade, choosing the appropriate blush formula is crucial based on your skin type. Cheek stains work well for oily skin, while creamy formulas are ideal for normal or combination skin. Dry skin benefits from powder blush, which helps create a blurred effect and prevents cracking. Choosing the right formula ensures long-lasting wear and a flawless finish.
4. Selecting the Right Blush Brush
Investing in a quality blush brush is essential for flawless application. A dense, natural or vegan hair brush that is soft and easily diffuses color is recommended. A well-designed brush prevents overloading your face with color while providing a beautiful color payoff. The right brush can make a significant difference in the overall look of your makeup.
5. Applying Blush According to Your Face Shape
Blush application varies based on your face shape to enhance your features strategically. Apply blush in a "C" shape for heart-shaped faces, focus on the apple of the cheek for oblong faces, sweep across the cheekbone for square faces, and swipe on the apples of your cheeks for round faces. Understanding your face shape helps you accentuate your bone structure effectively.
6. Blending Your Blush
Proper blending is key to achieving a natural flush with your blush. Use a damp sponge or stiff brush to blend your blush seamlessly into your skin. Aim for a natural, glowy finish without harsh lines to ensure your blush looks flattering and enhances your overall makeup look. Blending is a crucial step to achieving a flawless application.
7. Muting Bright Blush with Foundation
If you accidentally apply too much blush, you can tone it down by dabbing sheer liquid foundation over it with a wet makeup sponge. This technique helps distribute the color evenly and reduces the intensity of the blush while maintaining a rosy glow. This tip helps correct makeup mishaps and achieve a balanced look.
8. Using Blush in Your Makeup Routine
Blush is a versatile product that can enhance various features on your face. Blend cream blush onto your cheeks and eyelids for a cohesive look, adding color and dimension to your makeup. You can also apply blush to your lips for a subtle, rosy finish. Incorporating blush into different routine steps allows you to create a harmonious and polished makeup look.
9. Setting Your Blush
After applying your blush, set it by blotting with a tissue and lightly pressing with a makeup sponge. This technique helps absorb excess product without dulling your glow or altering the color. Setting your blush ensures long-lasting wear and a flawless finish throughout the day.
10. Knowing When to Skip Shimmer Formulas
While shimmering blush can create a luminous look on smooth skin, it may accentuate imperfections on rough or dry skin textures. It's essential to consider your skin condition when selecting blush formulas to prevent emphasizing pimples, bumps, or large pores. Opt for matte or cream finishes if you have textured skin or experience dryness to maintain a polished appearance.
11. Incorporating Blush into Contouring
Adding blush to your contouring routine enhances your cheekbones and jawline, providing warmth and natural definition to your face. Applying blush after contouring and before highlighting completes your makeup look, creating a balanced and flattering appearance. Blush adds dimension and color to your face, contributing to a well-rounded contouring process.
12. Layering Blush Formulas for Long-Lasting Results
For extended wear or special occasions, layering powder blush over a cream or gel formula can create a beautiful, customized look that lasts. Applying each product sparingly to avoid excessive color buildup when layering blush formulas. By layering blush formulas effectively, you can achieve a long-lasting, personalized result that complements your makeup look.
13. Using Lipstick as a Cheek Color
In a pinch, you can utilize lipstick as a makeshift cheek color by dotting a little on your cheeks and blending quickly for a natural flush. This technique is handy when you don't have blush on hand and must add color to your cheeks. Ensure you blend the lipstick effectively to prevent a blotchy appearance.
14. Finishing Your Look with Setting Spray
Complete your makeup routine by spraying a setting spray over your face to seal in your look and lock your makeup in place. This step helps maintain your makeup throughout the day or night without drying out your skin or adding extra color. Setting spray ensures your makeup stays intact and appears fresh and polished.
Try AI Personal Color Analysis For Free Today
WhatColors helps you find the best blush color based on your skin tone. Our patented color-matching technology determines your season based on your skin tone, eye color, and hair color. This lets you discover the ideal colors that complement your unique features, enhancing your overall look. By avoiding colors that clash with your skin tone, you can easily find the perfect blush color that suits you best.
Personalized Color Analysis
WhatColors offers a personalized color analysis to help you discover the most flattering blush shade for your complexion. By identifying your season based on your skin, eye, and hair color, you can unlock the best colors for you. Our AI-powered color analysis app provides accurate recommendations, ensuring that you choose the right blush for your skin tone every time.
Optimize Your Style
With WhatColors, you can transform your style by finding the perfect blush color to enhance your natural beauty. Our app guides you in selecting the most suitable blush shade to complement your complexion, creating a harmonious and flattering look. You can optimize your style and feel confident in your makeup choices by downloading our app for free on the App Store or Google Play Store.
Related Reading
• Best Colors for Winter Skin Tone
• Best Colors For Yellow Undertones
• What Color Prom Dress Should I Wear
• Best Clothing Colors For Pale Skin Male
• Best Colors For Light Skin
• Best Clothing Colors For Fair Skin
• What Color Eyeshadow Should I Wear
• Best Colors For Light Brown Skin
• What Does It Mean When A Color Washes You Out
• Best Colors For Medium Skin Tone
• What Color Eyeliner Should I Wear
• What Colors Look Good On Pale Skin With Pink Undertones
Get your color analysis done
in 60 seconds with WhatColors!
Selecting blush can be quite a task but if you are here to find out the key factors you need to consider while picking out the perfect blush, then you are in the right place! We are breaking down the key points to consider when considering the question: What color blush should I wear? or How to Find Colors That Suit You? So, keep reading to get the answers!
Table of Contents
What Is Blush Makeup?
Blush, also called blusher or rouge, is a cosmetic product applied to the cheeks. Typically found in shades of pink and red, blush can also be found in oranges, browns, and non-traditional colors such as purples and blues. The name “blush” comes from the term blushing, referring to the sudden redness of the cheeks when there is increased blood flow to the area – like when someone is embarrassed. Blush gives a rosy appearance to the face, making the wearer look naturally glowing and healthy.
Types of Blush: Cream and Powder
Cream Blush
Cream blush is a cream product in various types, such as sticks, tubes, or pans. It can be purchased in a blush palette or as individual shades. Cream blush is best applied with a sponge, fingers, or stippling makeup brush. Because it is a cream product, it will dry down, so some formulas may dry quickly, requiring you to blend it into your skin rapidly.
Cream blush is ideal for those with dry or mature skin, who prefer a dewy or natural blush, like applying products with fingers or stippling brushes, use a lot of other cream products to maintain a cohesive look on the face, and have the time to blend out the product nicely.
Powder Blush
The most popular blushes are pressed powder blushes, although loose powder blushes are also available. Powder blushes should be applied with a makeup brush, preferably a fluffy round or angled brush for easy and quick color dispersion over the entire cheek.
Powder blush is available in blush palettes and single shades. It is recommended for individuals with oily skin who use lots of powder to set the face, prefers quickly swiping on color with a fluffy brush, like a shimmery blush, and want the color to last throughout the day.
Does Blush Depend on Skin Tone or Undertones?
When choosing the right blush shade, it's essential to consider your skin's undertones. There are three main undertones: cool, warm, and neutral. The key to finding the perfect blush color is to select one that complements your undertones, ensuring a natural and flattering look.
Cool, Warm, and Neutral Undertones Explained
Understanding your skin's undertones is crucial in determining the ideal blush shade. The three main undertones are cool, warm, and neutral. You can identify your undertone in several ways, such as observing how your skin reacts to white clothing or analyzing the color of your veins.
Determining Your Skin's Undertone
There are various methods to determine your skin's undertone. One simple way is to wear a white T-shirt and observe how your skin looks. If your skin appears pink or rosy, you likely have cool undertones. If your skin looks more yellow, you probably have warm undertones. Another indicator is your skin's appearance in off-white hues compared to stark white. If off-white complements you better, you likely have warm undertones. If both colors look equally good, you have a neutral undertone.
Another way to identify your undertone is by checking the color of your veins. Blue veins typically indicate cool undertones, while green veins suggest warmth.
Choosing Blush Shades Based on Your Undertones
The best approach to selecting a blush shade is to choose colors that match your undertones for a natural look. If you're looking for a more striking appearance, choose a blush shade contrasting with your undertones.
When selecting a blush shade for a natural look, choose one that aligns with your skin's undertone. Opt for a blush shade that differs from your natural undertone for a bolder appearance.
Unlock Your Colors and Transform Your Style with WhatColors
WhatColors helps you find the perfect colors based on your skin tone. Discover your season and get personalized color recommendations for clothing, makeup, and more with our AI Personal Color Analysis app.
Download WhatColors for free on the App Store or Google Play store and unlock your colors to transform your style today.
Related Reading
• How To Know What Colors Look Good On You
• What Color Lipstick Should I Wear
• What Colors Look Good On Pale Skin
• Colors That Go With Tan
• What Color Jewelry Should I Wear
What Color Blush Should I Wear for My Skin Tone?
For fair-skinned individuals, lighter shades like light pink or peach are ideal for warm undertones. A baby pink shade is an excellent choice for fair skin tones with cool undertones. When opting for a coral blush or another bright hue, apply it lightly to create a sheer layer of color.
Some popular blush shades that work well for fair skin are:
NARS Blush in "Orgasm"
Milani Baked Blush in "Luminoso"
Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush in "Exposed"
The Best Blush for Medium Skin
Medium skin tones can rock shades like pink, peach, and bronzy tones. With the flexibility to explore richer colors due to a mix of warm and cool tones, medium skin tones can experiment with various hues. Peach tones are flattering for medium skin with neutral undertones, offering a blend of warm and cool tones. For a youthful pop of color, try a mauve or berry shade.
Some blush options for medium skin include:
Benefit Cosmetics Dandelion Box o’ Powder Blush
MAC Powder Blush in "Melba"
Milani Baked Blush in "Berry Amore"
The Best Blush for Olive Skin
Olive skin tones can elevate their complexion with deep shades such as plums, bright corals, vibrant pinks, and lush brown hues. With warm and cool undertones, olive skin looks stunning in richly pigmented shades, avoiding pale, cool-toned hues.
Some blush shades that complement olive skin tones are:
NYX Professional Makeup High Definition Blush in "Crimson"
L'Oréal Paris True Match Blush in "Spiced Plum"
e.l.f. Cosmetics Powder Blush Palette in "Dark"
The Best Blush for Dark Skin
Dark skin tones with warm undertones should opt for richly pigmented shades like red, magenta, and orange. Warm shades of brown and Bordeaux are also gorgeous picks for dark skin. If you have dark skin with cool undertones, try a purple or berry shade with blue undertones. Avoid cool-toned, pale blush shades like light pink.
Some blush options for dark skin include:
Black Radiance Artisan Color Baked Blush in "Toasted Almond"
Maybelline Fit Me Blush in "Mauve"
CoverGirl Cheekers Blendable Powder Blush in "Deep Plum"
Should I Pick a Blush With Warm Undertones or Cool Undertones?
When choosing between warm- and cool-toned blushes, examine the shade and identify the colors mixed throughout. For instance, coral shades typically have yellow undertones, while berry shades often contain blue undertones. Peachy shades combine warm and cool tones, making them a solid choice for those with neutral undertones.
Related Reading
• What Color Should I Wear
• Best Colors For Olive Skin
• Colors For Cool Undertones
• Best Colors For Warm Undertones
• What Colors Look Good On Tan Skin
• What Colors Look Best On Brown Skin
• Best Colors For Cool Undertones
• Best Colors For Warm Skin Tone
• What Season Am I
• What Color Looks Best on Me
• What Is My Color
• How to Find Your Color Palette
• What's My Color Palette
• What Color Season Am I
14 Tips for Applying Blush Perfectly, Every Single Time
1. Prepping Your Skin
To ensure flawless blush application, it's essential to prep your skin properly. Start by washing and moisturizing your face to create a smooth canvas for your makeup. If you have dry or oily skin, taking care of your skin is crucial for makeup to blend seamlessly. Use a makeup primer to help makeup last longer or layer blush on top of foundation or tinted moisturizer to enhance longevity.
2. Picking the Right Blush Color
Choosing the right blush shade for your skin tone can significantly affect your overall look. Opt for light pinks if you have pale, fair skin, peachy pink for light-medium skin, bright hues for golden or olive skin tones, and apricot or coral shades for darker skin tones. Selecting the right color can give you a natural, youthful glow that complements your complexion.
3. Finding the Perfect Blush Formula
In addition to selecting the right shade, choosing the appropriate blush formula is crucial based on your skin type. Cheek stains work well for oily skin, while creamy formulas are ideal for normal or combination skin. Dry skin benefits from powder blush, which helps create a blurred effect and prevents cracking. Choosing the right formula ensures long-lasting wear and a flawless finish.
4. Selecting the Right Blush Brush
Investing in a quality blush brush is essential for flawless application. A dense, natural or vegan hair brush that is soft and easily diffuses color is recommended. A well-designed brush prevents overloading your face with color while providing a beautiful color payoff. The right brush can make a significant difference in the overall look of your makeup.
5. Applying Blush According to Your Face Shape
Blush application varies based on your face shape to enhance your features strategically. Apply blush in a "C" shape for heart-shaped faces, focus on the apple of the cheek for oblong faces, sweep across the cheekbone for square faces, and swipe on the apples of your cheeks for round faces. Understanding your face shape helps you accentuate your bone structure effectively.
6. Blending Your Blush
Proper blending is key to achieving a natural flush with your blush. Use a damp sponge or stiff brush to blend your blush seamlessly into your skin. Aim for a natural, glowy finish without harsh lines to ensure your blush looks flattering and enhances your overall makeup look. Blending is a crucial step to achieving a flawless application.
7. Muting Bright Blush with Foundation
If you accidentally apply too much blush, you can tone it down by dabbing sheer liquid foundation over it with a wet makeup sponge. This technique helps distribute the color evenly and reduces the intensity of the blush while maintaining a rosy glow. This tip helps correct makeup mishaps and achieve a balanced look.
8. Using Blush in Your Makeup Routine
Blush is a versatile product that can enhance various features on your face. Blend cream blush onto your cheeks and eyelids for a cohesive look, adding color and dimension to your makeup. You can also apply blush to your lips for a subtle, rosy finish. Incorporating blush into different routine steps allows you to create a harmonious and polished makeup look.
9. Setting Your Blush
After applying your blush, set it by blotting with a tissue and lightly pressing with a makeup sponge. This technique helps absorb excess product without dulling your glow or altering the color. Setting your blush ensures long-lasting wear and a flawless finish throughout the day.
10. Knowing When to Skip Shimmer Formulas
While shimmering blush can create a luminous look on smooth skin, it may accentuate imperfections on rough or dry skin textures. It's essential to consider your skin condition when selecting blush formulas to prevent emphasizing pimples, bumps, or large pores. Opt for matte or cream finishes if you have textured skin or experience dryness to maintain a polished appearance.
11. Incorporating Blush into Contouring
Adding blush to your contouring routine enhances your cheekbones and jawline, providing warmth and natural definition to your face. Applying blush after contouring and before highlighting completes your makeup look, creating a balanced and flattering appearance. Blush adds dimension and color to your face, contributing to a well-rounded contouring process.
12. Layering Blush Formulas for Long-Lasting Results
For extended wear or special occasions, layering powder blush over a cream or gel formula can create a beautiful, customized look that lasts. Applying each product sparingly to avoid excessive color buildup when layering blush formulas. By layering blush formulas effectively, you can achieve a long-lasting, personalized result that complements your makeup look.
13. Using Lipstick as a Cheek Color
In a pinch, you can utilize lipstick as a makeshift cheek color by dotting a little on your cheeks and blending quickly for a natural flush. This technique is handy when you don't have blush on hand and must add color to your cheeks. Ensure you blend the lipstick effectively to prevent a blotchy appearance.
14. Finishing Your Look with Setting Spray
Complete your makeup routine by spraying a setting spray over your face to seal in your look and lock your makeup in place. This step helps maintain your makeup throughout the day or night without drying out your skin or adding extra color. Setting spray ensures your makeup stays intact and appears fresh and polished.
Try AI Personal Color Analysis For Free Today
WhatColors helps you find the best blush color based on your skin tone. Our patented color-matching technology determines your season based on your skin tone, eye color, and hair color. This lets you discover the ideal colors that complement your unique features, enhancing your overall look. By avoiding colors that clash with your skin tone, you can easily find the perfect blush color that suits you best.
Personalized Color Analysis
WhatColors offers a personalized color analysis to help you discover the most flattering blush shade for your complexion. By identifying your season based on your skin, eye, and hair color, you can unlock the best colors for you. Our AI-powered color analysis app provides accurate recommendations, ensuring that you choose the right blush for your skin tone every time.
Optimize Your Style
With WhatColors, you can transform your style by finding the perfect blush color to enhance your natural beauty. Our app guides you in selecting the most suitable blush shade to complement your complexion, creating a harmonious and flattering look. You can optimize your style and feel confident in your makeup choices by downloading our app for free on the App Store or Google Play Store.
Related Reading
• Best Colors for Winter Skin Tone
• Best Colors For Yellow Undertones
• What Color Prom Dress Should I Wear
• Best Clothing Colors For Pale Skin Male
• Best Colors For Light Skin
• Best Clothing Colors For Fair Skin
• What Color Eyeshadow Should I Wear
• Best Colors For Light Brown Skin
• What Does It Mean When A Color Washes You Out
• Best Colors For Medium Skin Tone
• What Color Eyeliner Should I Wear
• What Colors Look Good On Pale Skin With Pink Undertones