The Right Blush for You

Types of Blush

Blush comes in a variety of different formulas -- from powders to creams and gels.

Powders: These formulas work best on normal to oily skin. When applying powder blush, smile and sweep blush over the apples of cheeks. Blend color outward and upward into the hairline, then downward for the most natural effect. To keep from looking washed out in an hour, I like to add a pop of a brighter color just on the apple of the cheeks.

Cream or Gel: If skin tends to by dry, consider using a cream or gel blush. These formulas will also give you more of a dewy, natural look. The same basic technique applies when using cream and gel blush -- dot it on the apple of the cheek and use your finger to blend it up to the hairline and down.

Insider Hint: If your blush compact comes with a brush, toss it out. Chances are it's too short and narrow and will only give you stripes of color. A good blush brush should have a wide, rounded shape and angled sides.