Contouring With Blush is a Thing — Here’s How It’s Done

At this point, makeup application is like second nature to us. We swipe on our lipstick or mascara without even thinking about it, sometimes with our eyes only half open, seconds after we snooze through our alarm way too many times. And on those days when we need to add a healthy flush of color back into our cheeks, blush is a top priority. For as long as we can remember, we’ve followed the same blush guidelines to ensure that we don’t look crazy: Apply blush to the apples of our cheeks and blend out. Now, this method is not wrong, by any means, but there’s another way to apply blush and we think you might be into it. Enter, contouring with blush instead of your go-to contouring palette — also known in the beauty world as “draping.”

How It's Done

The secret to contouring with blush is all in about the product placement. Instead of working blush into the apples your cheeks, try applying your cream, liquid or powder blush along the top of the cheekbones: AKA the spot you dutifully apply your favorite highlighter. Now, using an angled blush brush, blend upward towards your temple to buff out the color. Start with a light application and build until you reach the intensity (or lack of) you want.

Why Should I Change Things Up?

If you’re questioning why you should change your tried-and-true blush routine, allow us to explain. Applying blush along the top of the cheekbones draws the color upward and elongates the face so it appears slimmer, just like your bronzed contour would. Beauty vlogger Maleena G explains that when she chooses to skip her full-face makeup routine, she’ll opt for blush as a more natural way to replace her bronzed contour. Ahead, check out how she sculpts her face with blush to get the look and prepare to be inspired to change up your springtime beauty routine.

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Hero Image Courtesy Maybelline