How-to: apply blush for your face shape

Blush is an exceptional invention. It brightens up your face, enhances your skin tone, and balances a bold lip perfectly.
But did you know the way you apply your rouge can actually alter the shape of your face? It can. However, with a little know-how — and the right application techniques — you can use this to your advantage and enhance the shape of your face instantly. Here's how to best apply blush for your face shape (you're welcome!).
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If you have a round face...
A round face often craves a little structure and definition, so fake a pair of sharp cheekbones by sucking in your cheeks and applying your blush beneath your bones. Do avoid applying it in circles on the apples of your cheeks though as this will only make your face appear rounder.
If you have a oval face...
Concentrating your rouge on the top of your cheekbones is wise if you’ve got an oval face, but make sure you blend the hue up towards your temples to help lift your cheekbones and create definition.
If you have a square face...
Blush has the ability to soften the sharp, angular features of a square face. To make the most of this, apply the product with a blush brush in a circular shape on the apples of your cheeks only.
If you have a long face...
A fringe isn’t the only thing that can break up a long face — strategic blush application can too. To make your face appear wider, apply your blush in a horizontal stripe across the apples of your cheeks and towards your ears. Just be sure to blend well — you don’t want to look like a tiger.
If you have a heart-shaped face...
To draw attention away from your strong jawline, always apply your blush along the bottom of your cheekbones instead of the apples. This will give you an effect that’s similar to contouring, and allow your cheekbones to take centre stage.
Did you know your blush application technique can alter the shape of your face? Will you be applying your rouge in a way that’s tailored to your face shape from now on?
316 Member Comments
A great how-to apply blush to your face shape. Blush does enhance skin tone and balance a bold lip.
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Thank you for such an informative article. Blush application can make or break your entire look.
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Just noticed! I have darkening of the skin just ni those areas (where people place blush/bronzer)...so it looks as if I wear makeup all the time. And since "nude" blushes are "in", no one notices I actually have discoloration, not makeup haha
No wonder I dislike blushes/bronzers so much. Always wanted to have all over same skin colour
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Great article I AGREE. The pictures are really good and easy to follow.
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Contouring without buying a contouring kit!
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Oblong faced here so I'm going to need this advice.
Thanks BH!
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Great to know how and where to apply the blush to look your best
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I learnt something new today! Definitely saving this article!
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i always do upward strokes.
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Wow I never knew there were techniques for blush too
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Great tips!! Thank you.
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I hardly ever wear blush, but these are great tips!
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I've been doing it wrong this whole time
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I've been doing it all wrong! Thanks for this handy guide.
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Gosh, I remember when I used to apply blush only on the apples of my cheeks - the cringe!
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The right blush colour and brush is so important
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This article confirmed I was applying my blush correctly.
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Well blended and the right colour
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I have an oval face. This is really helpful!
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My round face definitely needs some serious structure
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ahh this is great! super helpful!
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Thanks. I'll be adding this article to my favourites.
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Thanks for the tips!
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I have been finding that adding blush brings a little colour to my pale complexion. My only issue is finding out what my face-shape is, some people say oval some say heart.... I think that I am oval therefore I stick up applying blush to my cheekbones up towards my temple.
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