Since the contouring phenomenon has taken the world by storm, we have seen our fair share of over-the-top disasters. The golden rule of makeup is not about how much product you use but rather where you apply it. Using a combination of blush, shimmer, and bronzer is a simple yet effective way to complement your features and add more dimension to your face. You don’t need to be a professional to master this technique, with the correct products anyone can achieve a glowing complexion.
Here are a few tips on how to apply your blush, bronzer, and shimmer.
Bronzer
Bronzer is used to add depth and create the illusion of a sun-kissed glow. The most important thing to consider when choosing a bronzer is the color. Look for hues that are two shades darker than your natural skin tone, as anything darker will look blotchy. If you have oily skin, stick to matte formulas as opposed to ones that shimmer.
When applying bronzer, it’s always best to use a powder brush with a rounded tip for a more subtle glow or a fan brush for a more sculpted look. Lightly pack the tip of the brush with bronzer. Sweep the brush along the hollows of your cheekbones, starting from your ears and blending downwards. Next, use the remaining powder on the brush to dust your temples, both sides of your nose, and along the edge of your jawline.
Blush
The first thing you need to consider when selecting a blush is whether to use a cream or powder formula. If you have oily skin, it’s best to stick to powders for a matte finish. Color is also an important factor when selecting the correct blush. For pale complexions, opt for pink or tan shades. Deeper shades like brown, plum, and red work best with darker skin tones.
Applying blush may seem straightforward, but it is easy to go overboard if you don’t know what you are doing. First, lightly pack the tip of a medium-sized stipple brush with the blush. If you have a round face, sweep the brush in a sideways V shape starting from your ears blending downwards towards the center of your cheeks. If you have a square or rectangular face, sweep the brush in a teardrop motion, starting from the center of the apple and blending upwards towards your temples.
Shimmer
Shimmer is used to create a healthy glow and accentuate features. When selecting a shimmer, look for finely milled powders that don’t contain any flecks of glitter for a more natural, dewy look. Shimmer comes in various shades so it’s best to choose one that complements your skin tone. For darker complexions, opt for a gold or bronze shimmer. If you have a pale complexion, opt for a peach, silver or champagne shimmer.
It’s best to use a fan brush when applying shimmer to your cheekbones. Lightly pack the tip of your brush with shimmer and sweep the brush over your cheekbones blending upwards toward your temples. Use the remaining powder on the bridge of your nose. Next, use a smaller eye brush and lightly apply the shimmer to the inner corners of your eyes and brow bones.
Now that you have mastered the art of applying these products, get out there, strut your stuff, and tackle the day with your natural, glowing skin.
