When applying your makeup, it is important to note that the little bits and pieces make up a whole. The right application of different makeup products gives you that glamorous look.
In this article, we’ll learn how to apply our bronzer and blush, the do’s and don’ts of application, and choose which product is best for your skin tone.
But first of all, we’ll start by explaining what bronzer and blush are.
What are Bronzers and Blushes?
A bronzer is a makeup product that gives the face a sun-kissed look. Some bronzers are used all over the body, not just the face alone. Bronzers come in different forms; liquids, creams, and powders.
What is A Blush?
A blush is applied to your makeup to give your cheeks a flushed look. Like the bronzer, it also comes in liquid, creamy, and powdery forms.
How to Apply a Bronzer and a Blush
Applying bronzer and blush can make or mar your makeup look. Bronzer and blush applications are the final pieces of your makeup look, hence the need to use them correctly to achieve a beautiful makeup look.
How to Apply a Bronzer
For a blended bronzer application, follow this simple guide:
- Apply all other makeup first.
- Ensure your bronzer tone is the same or nearly the same as your chest or arm colour.
- Apply your bronzer to the areas where the sun normally hits your face; apply in the shape of number three, starting at your forehead, then your cheeks, and your chin.
- Apply lightly on your nose, and swipe a little along your neck.
- Apply some bronzer to your neck also and blend.
How to Apply Bronzers and Blushes Correctly To Skin Type and Face Shape
Bronzers come in cream, liquid, or powder forms; it’s a no-brainer that their applications are different. It is also important to note that these applications vary based on each individual’s face shape.
First, let’s see how to apply the different forms of bronzers to skin types. Then, next, learn where to use bronzers for each face shape.
Applying cream or gel bronzers
Cream bronzers are best used on normal or dry skin types because they don’t settle on any dry patch. Some come in compact forms, while others come in stick forms.
- To apply the one that comes in compact form; use a makeup sponge to dab and blend into your skin
- To apply the one that comes in stick form, apply directly from the tube and blend in with your fingers.
Applying Powdered Bronzers
Powdered bronzers are the most common bronzer forms. This bronzer type is good for all skin types, though best for oily or combination skin. Powdered bronzers come in matte or shimmer finish, so an oily skin type can go for the matte finish, while a dry skin type can go for the shimmer finish.
Applying Liquid Bronzers
Liquid bronzers are good for those with oily skin types or who desire a silky finish to their makeup look.
You can apply your liquid bronzer with a fluffy brush or a makeup sponge.
How to Apply Blush
The best way to apply blush is to blend it into the apples of your cheeks. If you don’t know where the apple of your cheeks is, smile into the mirror; the front parts of your cheeks that pop up when you smile are the apple of your cheeks.
Applying blush can be tricky as we all have different-sized faces and shapes. Below is a little guide on applications based on different face faces
- Oval face: apply your blush to the tops of your cheekbones to create a lifting effect.
- Round face: apply blush below the apples of the cheeks to add more definition to a round face shape. Also, apply along your cheekbones and blend upward toward the hairline.
- Square Face: apply a pop of colour on the apples of your cheeks to make your face look fuller and naturally flushed.
- Heart-Shaped face: apply blush in a “C” shape, going from the top of your cheeks to above the end of your eyebrows.
Differences between Bronzer and Blush
- Blush is applied directly to the cheeks and cheekbones. In comparison, bronzer is used on the cheekbones and other contours of the face.
- Bronzers are applied to create a tanned skin look, while the blush is to add colour to the cheeks. As a result, bronzer comes in brown or gold, while blush comes in variations of pink.
What Are The Do’s and Don’ts of Bronzer and Blush Application
Bronzer do’s
- Choose a bronzer that’s right for you; darker than your skin tone
- Use a fluffy angled or tapered brush for blended application
- Choose a bronzer with more natural tones
- Apply your bronzer in the right order, after your foundation, concealer, and powder.
Bronzer don’ts
- Apply bronzer all over the face.
- Using bronzer as a tool to darken your skin.
- Using any brush for your bronzer application.
- Overload your brush with bronzer.
Blush Do’s
- Apply your blush with a medium-sized brush
- Apply your blush to areas like your hairline and the bridge of your nose
- Avoid shimmer or glitter
Blush Don’ts
- Blending your blush too close to your ears.
- Applying your blush with one quick stroke.
- Don’t use a blush that looks too brown.
How to Choose the Best Bronzer and Blush for your Skin Tone
Consider skin tones and undertones when choosing the best bronzer for your skin. Undertones fall into three basic categories; cool, neutral, and warm.
Your undertones refer to underlying shades that peek through your complexion rather than the actual colour of your skin.
In choosing a bronzer, the best way to determine your undertone is to check your veins.
- If your veins appear blue or purple, you have a cool undertone
- If they appear greenish, you have a warm undertone
- If they appear somewhere in between, you have a neutral undertone
Bronzer colours that come in beige or peach work well for cool undertones.
While those that come in golden brown with a hint of yellow work better for warm undertones.
Neutral undertones favour both colours, albeit with some extra care, as this can be tricky to work around.
The rule of thumb for choosing a bronzer that’s best for you is to go with a bronzer that is one or two shades darker than your natural skin tone.
The best blush for your skin tone
Consider skin tones and undertones in selecting the blush that works best for your skin.
- Warm skin tones
Warm skin tones favour red or orange-coloured blush. Peach or coral shades will look the best on you! Olive-coloured skin and dark skin can also look great in bright pink!
- Cool skin tones
Cool skin tones favour blue or pink-coloured blush. Pale pinks will add colour to pale, fair skin without making it look too dark
- Neutral skin tones
Neutral skin tones are compatible with soft shades, but most blush colours will look great on neutral skin tones.
Conclusion
Much more than bronzing and blushing your makeup look, it is important that you consider the occasions where it is necessary and what works best for you. Adding bronzer or blush to your makeup look is great; however, not a must in every makeup situation.