Blush never truly goes out of style because, for some of us, it's a critical cosmetic that brings life and radiance to our faces. For a few seasons, contouring became the main act, leaving blush as an afterthought. But rosy cheeks are making a serious comeback this season and you'll want to be prepared.
In case you need a refresher on which blush shades are ideal for your skin tone--as well as which you should avoid like the plague--Angela Kim, founder and CEO of Insider Beauty, is here to break it down for us.
For pale/alabaster skin...
"For those with pale or alabaster skin, I’d recommend going for a sheer, muted, soft pink or peach tone to give a natural flushed look. I would avoid bright or dark colors as they’ll look unnatural and out of place."
Expert Pick: Bobbi Brown Blush in Medium Light Pink Lilac
For fair/medium skin...
"Women with fair to medium skin tones do well with rosy pinks and deep peaches since they come out the most natural. I’d recommend avoiding neutral colored blushes since they probably won’t show up, or worse, make your skin look drab."
Expert Pick: L'Oreal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Blush in Spiced Plum.
For olive skin...
"For olive-colored skin, I would go with a rose or peach hue. Earthy tones like bronze or gold will look make your face look dull and dim. For bronze-colored skin, richly-pigmented shades with golden undertones really illuminate the skin, adding warmth while also brightening your complexion. It also provides depth and subtle contouring on the face."
Expert Pick: Nars Blush in Deep Throat.
For bronze skin...
"Richly-pigmented shades with golden undertones really illuminate the skin, adding warmth while also brightening your complexion. It also provides depth and subtle contouring on the face. Avoid cooler undertones if possible."
Expert Pick: Benefit Powder in Dallas
For light-dark skin...
These women also do quite well with a variety of colors. Most shades will work but a rosy pink is extremely flattering on this skin tone. You can go with pinks, corals, or go warmer to a shimmery gold or brown--they’ll all enhance your complexion. Try a creamy texture for a dewy look."
Expert Pick: Nars Blush in Outlaw
For dark skin...
"For those with dark skin tones, it’s crucial to go either really bright or really dark. Bold and even sometimes fluorescent colors like hot pink and coral can provide great contrast. Or, go the opposite direction and try experimenting with a deep plum or burgundy. You’ll be surprised at the amount of contour and depth these darker colors can provide. I would recommend avoiding drab, neutral shades since they’ll disappear with the color of your skin."
Expert Pick: Nars Blush in Exhibit A — Brilliant Red
