“A touch of colour will make your skin look alive and pretty” – that's what international makeup expert Bobbi Brown thinks.
Of course she isn't talking here about the painted doll effect, nor heavy, war-paint style streaks on the cheekbones. Instead, she means that subtle touch of freshness that a slightly flushed look gives to the face. Let's see how to to achieve it:
The most flattering colours are those that mimic the natural tone of the skin after exercise. For most of us, that will be soft pinks and peaches, rather than terracotta shades.
Blusher should be applied with the right tools. Creams and gels can be applied with the fingers, but if you use a powder blusher, a large, round brush is best to achieve a natural effect. Don't use the same brush you use for applying powder, and make sure you keep them both clean.
Fill the brush with blusher and then remove the excess powder either by a slight tap against the back of the hand or by blowing gently. Avoid applying too much colour as, once applied, it's difficult to remove.
If you do overdo it and end up with the cheeks being too heavily coloured and highlighted, you may need to cleanse completely and start afresh. If you simply don't have time, try softening the colour with a light dusting of translucent powder which should help tone things down.
Cream and gel blushers are a great way to achieve a natural look as they are easy to apply thinly and give a translucent effect.
Blusher should be applied on the apples of your cheeks – smiling at yourself in the mirror will help you locate the right spot to start from. Use a sweeping, curved upward movement and apply lightly towards the temples.
You can also try adding a touch of colour to the centre of the chin and forehead – but make sure to keep it light.