HOW TO APPLY BRONZER AND BLUSH

Bronzer and blush are staples of any well-designed makeup look. These two products are an essential inclusion for every makeup enthusiast’s kit, because everyone wants both definition and a healthy glow. Although blush and bronzer serve two distinct purposes within your makeup routine, they can be used within one look to add colour, definition and an elevated energy to your makeup.

With only a subtle application, using bronzer and blush has the capacity to enhance your natural features from colouring to facial structure. Read on to learn the benefits of bronzer vs blush and understand why you should wear both together.

Applying both bronzer and blush in your routine

Whether you are choosing to contour your face, or simply accentuate your high points and more prominent features – bronzer and blush can be used together to achieve a more natural finish, in comparison to applying each on their own.

The success of a perfect bronzer and blush combination is in proper placement. For contouring, bronzer can be used as your base by adding shadow to the hollows of your cheeks, sides of your nose and along your jawline. Blush is then applied to the apples of your cheeks and swept lightly upward towards the sides of your eyes to create a natural-looking flush. For a little extra colour, you can gently sweep some bronzer on the top of your nose.

If your skin is naturally dark or tan, try brighter blushes and pigmented formulas to add striking contrast to your bronzer. For lighter skin tones, stick to muted shades that resemble your natural complexion.

Different bronzer formulas

To truly reap the benefits of bronzer, the key is knowing where to apply it – as well as which formula works best with your skin. To add warmth and a natural glow, we’ll walk through the different textures and application tips to achieve your best bronzed look.

Powder Bronzer

This type of bronzer is suitable for all skin types but is especially helpful for combination or oily skin. These bronzers generally come in two different finishes – matte and shimmer – which offer different tones and final results. Matte bronzers have no shimmer or sheen and give your skin a natural finish, while shimmer bronzers, such as our Belle de Teint Powder Bronzer, contain light-reflecting pigments that highlight your features.

How to apply: Dip a large powder brush into the bronzing powder and sweep it across your forehead, the bridge of your nose, and the apples of your cheeks for an all-over glow. For more precise shading, use a smaller powder brush and apply to the same areas of your face, always using circular motions to ensure seamless blending.

Cream Bronzer

A cream bronzer is best suitable for dry or normal skin types, because it won't settle on any dry patches or flakes. Cream-based formulas can often contain hydrating ingredients that melt into the skin for a natural finish.

How to apply: There are multiple ways to apply cream bronzers, including directly onto the skin and blended with fingers, a stippled brush, or a makeup sponge. If your cream bronzer comes in a stick, it can be applied directly from the tube and blended in with your fingers or a makeup sponge. Cream bronzer can be applied to the cheeks, forehead and nose.

Different blush formulas

Blush has the ability to lift and brighten your features, by subtly awakening your complexion. Discover where to apply blush and which are the best blush formulas for you and your skin type.

Cream Blush

Cream blush is perfect for when you want to achieve a dewy, hydrated and glowing look. Out of all the blush types, cream blush is the most natural looking for a subtle yet transformative glow. This type of blush formula is ideal for those with dry skin, since it doesn’t cling to dry, rough or uneven patches.

How to apply: To understand how to apply cream blush, you can start on the apples of your cheeks in a sweeping upward motion with our Blush on No6 Angled Blush Brush. If you don't have a blush brush, you can use your fingers to blend in, but make sure they have nothing else on them.

Blush Stick

Blush sticks make blush application easier by eliminating the need for a brush or sponge and can be applied straight from the stick. The consistency and texture allow a blush stick (such as our Teint Idole Ultra Wear Blush Stick with a cream-to-powder texture) to glide across your skin for precise application.

How to apply: Dab the blush on the apples of your cheeks and sweep lightly upward to the sides of your eyes for a natural flushed look. The cream-to-powder formula will provide a lightweight matte finish.

Powder Blush

As the traditional blush formula, a powder blush can give a natural looking glow and can absorb excess oil, making it an excellent choice for those with combination and oily skin. Similar to powder bronzers, they come in matte and shimmer finishes like our Blush Subtil Powder Blushes.

How to apply: You can apply powder blush using a large brush, tapping off any excess colour pigments on the back of your hand, placing the brush on your cheekbone and applying the powder blush from the inside of your face outwards, tapering off in the direction of your hairline.

Now that you understand how to apply bronzer and blush together to achieve the ultimate glow, discover how to choose the perfect foundation.