Blush blindness occurs when you keep adding blush without realizing how intense it’s getting—until everyone else notices, but you don’t.
Aparna Moitra, a homemaker and freelancer based in Abu Dhabi, feels a bit embarrassed to ask this question, but she needs to know: “Do I have blush blindness?”
Over the past month, she’s been applying blush a bit too generously and, as she describes it, ended up looking like a strawberry at her birthday celebration. “Someone asked me if I had an allergy to something on my face because it was so red,” she remembers.
The Pop of Colour and Its Drawbacks
Blush can be a wonderful way to enhance your complexion with a healthy glow, but too much can leave you looking overly flushed or even sunburned. The secret to perfect blush application is moderation and technique. Here are some tips to help you avoid going overboard:
Tips to Avoid Blush Blindness:
- Use the Right Tools:
Brush Selection: Opt for a high-quality, fluffy blush brush that allows for an even and light application. A denser brush can apply too much product at once.
Blending: Consider investing in a good blending brush or a makeup sponge to help diffuse the color and blend it smoothly into your skin.
Choose the Right Shade:
Select a blush shade that suits your skin tone. Light pinks and peaches are great for fair skin, while rose and mauve shades work well for medium skin tones. If you have deeper skin, rich berry and brick hues will be most flattering.
- Light Layers:
Begin with a small amount of blush and gradually build it up. It’s much easier to add more than to remove excess.
Make sure to tap off any extra product from your brush before applying it to your face.
- Proper Placement:
Apply blush to the apples of your cheeks and blend it upwards towards your temples for a natural lift.
Avoid placing blush too close to your nose, as this can create an unflattering, clownish look.
- Natural Lighting:
Whenever possible, apply your blush in natural light. Artificial lighting can sometimes alter the true color and intensity of the blush.
- Check Your Makeup:
Take a step back and assess your makeup in various lighting throughout the day to ensure your blush appears natural and not overdone.
- Use a Setting Powder:
A light dusting of translucent setting powder over your blush can help soften the intensity and keep your makeup in place.
- Blend, Blend, Blend:
Blending is essential. Use circular motions with your brush or sponge to seamlessly blend the edges of your blush into your foundation.
Aparna’s New Approach:
After recognizing her blush mistake, Aparna has embraced these tips. She now applies blush with a lighter touch and ensures thorough blending. She also checks her makeup in different lighting to maintain a natural appearance. Aparna’s experience highlights how small tweaks in your makeup routine can significantly enhance your overall look.
Blush should enhance your natural beauty rather than overpower it. By following these tips, you can achieve a fresh, radiant appearance without succumbing to blush blindness.
