How to Apply a Blush Stick, Step-by-Step

Step 1: Make sure you’re using the right blush stick for your skin type.

This isn’t necessarily a step in the blush stick application process, but it is important to ensure you’re using the right blush stick for your skin type. If you have dry skin, April Martin, Head of Product Development for GEN SEE, recommends formulas that “contain more oils” to give moisture and radiance to the skin. Martin suggests those with oily skin types reach for a cream blush that has a more matte finish so they are not overly dewy.

Worried about highlighting enlarged pores? Makeup artist Samreen Arshad mentions steering clear of “shimmer formulas as these tend to enhance the pores and draw more attention to imperfections.” Arshad shares that finding the right blush stick is like finding the right foundation—it will take a little bit of trial and error to discover the blush formula that’s best for you.

Step 2: Prep your skin with skincare products.

Once you’ve found the right blush for you, it’s time to prep. The key to a flawless base? Skincare, of course. Follow your normal skincare routine and don’t forget to finish with moisturizer for a foundation that will protect your skin and help your makeup look better. Arshad shares that you can stop at the skincare prep or you can go in with “your foundation and concealer as usual to create an even base.” The choice is yours.

Step 3: Don’t forget the primer.

Primer is an essential part of any makeup routine, especially when it comes to blush. After your base is set (yes, even after you apply foundation or concealer), prime away. Arshad says that applying primer to your face before you put on cream blush will allow “the blush to last longer throughout the day” and ensure it stays as pigmented as when you first put it on.

For an all-in-one moisturizer and primer, we suggest the BY TERRY Hyaluronic Hydra-Primer. Formulated with hydrating hyaluronic acid, it blurs any imperfections to leave your skin soft and smooth before applying the product.

Step 4: Get the blush ready.

A common misconception when it comes to applying cream blush is thinking you can apply it directly to your cheeks. While you technically can, that’s not going to give you the result you want. If you follow any makeup tip, let it be this one: Warm the blush up before applying it. Even though it’s in stick form and you may want to swipe it on, warming it up with your hands first allows the product to be applied more seamlessly for more buildable coverage. Arshad says that she puts a bit of blush on the back of her hand and then uses “a blush brush to blend and warm the product to get it ready for application.”

The ANASTASIA BEVERLY HILLS Stick Blush already comes with a brush built-in on one end which makes it oh-so-easy to use. Who needs a stick and brush when you can have it all in one?

Step 5: Find the right placement.

Blush placement ultimately depends on your face shape. Those with oval and diamond face shapes should focus the blush on the cheekbones, whereas those with square and round faces will benefit from focusing the product on the apples of the cheeks.

While many start applying the product on the apples of their cheeks and blend toward the temples, Arshad recommends a different approach. “I like to start the application close to the temples, at the highest point of my cheeks, and work my way in towards the center of the face. This gives you more control over the product and blending,” she shares.

Martin mentions that it’s important to also not place the blush too low, as this can give you more of an overly-flushed look and less of a rosy glow. She also suggests extending “the color across the bridge of your nose and also on the brow bones for a more cohesive look.”

Step 6: Time to blend the blush.

You can use your fingers (make sure they’re clean, please!), a damp beauty blender, or a blush brush to blend the blush onto your complexion. You’ll want to dab it on, almost like a stamping motion, moving upward toward the temples for a more natural finish.

The COMPLEX CULTURE Cheek Chiseler Blush Brush is our fave brush because it contours your cheekbones like no other. For a beauty blender, the UVÉ BEAUTY Makeup Blender Trio is the perfect threesome to keep in your makeup bag because they deliver a streak-free finish no matter if they’re used with cream, powder, or liquid products. Use one for each.

Step 7: Add more blush.

The step is more of an as-needed option if you want to add more color to your complexion after initial application. Go ahead and follow the steps above to add a pop of color to your cheeks if you feel you need it.

Step 8: Use the blush stick on other parts of your face.

One of the biggest benefits of a blush stick is that it can be used as lipstick, highlighter, and even eyeshadow. So if you want to match your eyes or lips to your cheeks, you can do that. One of our favorite products to do this with is the THREAD BEAUTY Blend it Multi Stick because it offers buildable coverage that can leave you with a more natural look or something bold and daring.

Step 9: Set the look.

Arshad recommends going over your cream blush stick with a powder blush of the same color to help “enhance the pigment and provide long-lasting wear.” Martin reminds us that a setting spray will help ensure your makeup stays put. Our go-to is the ACE BEAUTÉ Seal It Makeup Setting Spray because it continually keeps our look in place no matter what we get up to.

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