How to Apply Blush So It Looks Symmetrical Every Time

Blush can be used to elevate your makeup look by enhancing your facial features and warming up your complexion. While it’s relatively simple to do — all you need is your favorite powder or cream blush and a soft makeup brush — there are some tricks that makeup artists use to ensure that it goes on evenly on both cheeks for a flawless-looking result. Ahead, celebrity makeup artist and L’Oréal Paris expert Sir John shares his pro tips on how to apply blush symmetrically for an even flush of color. 

How to Apply Blush Symmetrically

While applying blush is certainly self explanatory, Sir John shares how to apply it symmetrically, or the same on each side of your face, in three easy steps. 

Step 1. Pick Your Blush 

This may seem like a no-brainer because it’s where it all begins. Start by picking which form of blush works best for you. According to Sir John, cream blushes are the easiest to manipulate, but the staying power of a powder blush is unmatched. If you’re looking for a new powder blush, look no further than the L’Oréal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Blush. If you’re in the market for a new cream blush, the L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Radiant Satin Blush is a great option. Both formulas are easy to apply and don’t cake, dry out or budge throughout the day. 

Step 2. Personalize Your Placement

“Wherever you see the most volume in your face when you smile, that’s where you want to deposit the pigment,” says Sir John. “But, there’s no right or wrong area to apply, so feel free to bring it up to your temples or across your nose, too, just be sure to match it on both sides.” Not sure where to put it? Try draping your blush for a contoured, flushed look. 

Step 3. Mark Your Cheeks At the Same Time

According to Sir John, blush should be layered to slowly build up color. First, to get the most precise placement, you’ll want to dip your thumbs into your blush — in either cream, liquid or powder form — and bring your knuckles together, with your thumbs facing out. After that, let your thumbs fall to the fullest part of your cheeks, depositing color to the area on the same spot on both sides of your face. Then, pull your hands away and grab a makeup brush. 

So, now that you’ve evenly marked your cheeks, dab your makeup brush into the blush and slowly pat in more color, repeating this process until you’re pleased with the result. Remember, blush is a product that you want to build up so use a gentle touch as you add more.

Next: How To Drape Your Blush For A Gorgeous, Flushed Look

Written By: Caitlyn Martyn, Photo Credit: Chaunte Vaughn