How to Get Rosy Cheeks for Winter

Winter weather can bring on a host of beauty issues, from dry skin to static hair, but there’s one often overlooked perk of cold temperatures: rosy cheeks! Of course, we wouldn’t dare suggest that you spend more time outdoors in order to get those cold weather-flushed cheeks. Lucky for you, you can create cute rosy-toned cheeks with the right makeup and application tips. It’s all about blush! Not sure where to start or afraid that using blush will make you look like a circus clown? Don’t fret—read on for a foolproof way to get rosy cheeks this winter, including our best makeup products and tips.

STEP 1: LAY YOUR FOUNDATION

Before you reach for your go-to foundation, use a glow-boosting primer, like the L'Oréal Paris Magic Lumi Light Infusing Primer. Apply your primer on clean, moisturized skin. If you’re really prone to dry skin, consider also spraying your skin with a hydrating facial mist, like the L'Oréal Paris True Match Lumi-Shake and Glow Dew Mist, prior to your primer. Next, you can layer on your foundation to create an even canvas for your blush. We suggest using a foundation that’s both lightweight and long-lasting, like the L'Oréal Paris Infallible 24HR Fresh Wear Foundation. During the harsh winter months, it’s wise to use makeup that will stand up to the elements and this longwear formula is definitely up to the job.

STEP 2: APPLY YOUR BLUSH

Since we’re just talking about rosy cheeks here, we’re going to assume you’ve already taken care of the rest of your makeup routine: concealer, eyeliner, mascara, and eyeshadow. Once you have that covered, it’s time to dust on a bit of blush and create that rosy look. In our opinion, blush has gotten a bit of a bad rep in recent years, but the truth is that the right shade of blush can provide a subtle, gorgeous glow that you won’t want to miss out on. Here are our best formulas and shades for each skin tone:

If you have fair skin with cool undertones…try the L'Oréal Paris True Match Blush in Baby Blossom.

If you have fair skin with warm undertones…try the L'Oréal Paris Paradise Enchanted Fruit-Scented Blush Makeup in Bashful.

If you have medium skin with neutral undertones…try the L'Oréal Paris True Match Blush in Tender Rose.

If you have tan skin with warm undertones…try the L'Oréal Paris True Match Blush in Rosy Outlook.

If you have tan skin with cool undertones…try the L'Oréal Paris Infallible Longwear Blush Shaping Sticks in Cheeky Dimension.

If you have dark skin with cool undertones…try the L'Oréal Paris True Match Blush in Spiced Plum.

If you have dark skin with warm undertones…try the L'Oréal Paris Paradise Enchanted Fruit-Scented Blush Makeup in Charming.

After you’ve picked out the right rosy shade for you, it’s time to apply it. Using your blush brush, which is usually the second to largest brush in any makeup brush set, swipe a bit of color onto the brush and gently tap off any excess. Next, suck in your cheeks (like you’re making a fish face) and apply the blush onto the tops of each of your cheekbones using light, upward motions. For a really rosy makeup look, you’ll want a second coat. This time around, put on a big grin and dust a light second layer of blush onto both of your cheeks.

STEP 3: APPLY A LIGHT LAYER OF FACE POWDER

Not only will brushing on a little face powder help tone down your blush and create your desired subtle rosy glow, but it will also help make your blush stay put. The right face powder won’t appear cakey or shiny, either, it will leave your complexion with a smooth, soft finish. Try the L'Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Glow Powder if you like your face to have a touch of illumination. Using the largest makeup brush in your set, apply a light layer of powder all over your complexion.

STEP 4: SET YOUR MAKEUP LOOK

Now that you’ve got gorgeous, rosy-toned cheeks, you’ll want to make sure they won’t wipe or fade off right when you step outside! To lock your final makeup look into place and help ensure that it will last all day long, spritz on a bit of makeup setting spray, like the L'Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Spray & Set Makeup Extender Setting Spray.

Editor’s note: Confused about the difference between setting spray and facial mists? We get it, there are a lot of products to keep up with! Find all you need to know, in our article, What Are Facial Mists and Setting Sprays—and Why Should You Use Them?

Next: 10 Lipstick Trends for Winter 2018-2019