Guide to Using Cosmetic Blusher & Bronzer

Only about half of women who regularly use make-up wear blusher. This is often because they are so unsure of how to use it. Used correctly it can add a healthy looking glow with an instant “pretty” impression. But we have all seen blusher used badly resulting in the “Clown Effect” and this is the main reason many women fight shy of wearing it.

Step By Step Guide to Getting it Right.

First choose your colour. Blushers are available in a huge range of colours from rose pinks through reds and into red brown tones. The best way is to choose a shade that most closely matches your own cheeks when you have been out for a brisk walk on a cold day. Another trick which can totally alter your look is to match your lip color. Fair skin looks great in rose, olive in peach and dark skin in apricot or even red. Do lots of experimenting in front of the mirror.

The next thing to decide is which formula is best for you. A powder is usually best for oily and combo skin, cream is good for dry skin, liquid and gel are great for oily skin. You can mix and match your formats for different effects. For a luminous look that stays on all day combine a cream and powder together.

Blusher is usually applied at the end of your make-up routine, just before powder, but try it under your foundation if you are aiming for a very natural look.

Creams and gels should be applied with your finger but you will need a brush for a powder. A full size professional brush will give the best result. Put the blush on your brush, tapping of any excess or put a dab of cream or gel onto your finger. Look into the mirror and smile. This will show you where the “apple” of your cheek is, the area directly over your cheek bone that rounds out when you smile. To keep the effect natural keep the blusher to this area alone. Keep the colour light and blend, blend , blend. A good tip for cream is to dab it on with your middle finger and blend in with your ring finger as this will automatically take up any excess.

If you think you have overdone it, a little translucent powder will tone it down or a tissue will blot a way excess cream blusher.

BRONZER

For a sun-kissed sheen dab bronzer powder on your forehead, chin and nose before you apply blusher. To make sure it does not look like a stripe use a big brush and a very light hand.

TOP TIPS

Always keep your brushes clean. Dirty brushes are a breeding ground for bacteria which will be transferred to your skin.

For a night time party effect add a little shimmering blush or bronzer to the highest point of your cheekbone.

If you are using a powder blusher always sweep your brush in one direction, aim for just one quick sweep for the best effect.

Cream blush is great for mature skin it is easy to blend and will give a very natural look.

A dusky pink tone will instantly brighten and warm tired sallow skin. An instant pick me up if you are not feeling at your best.