Courtesy of mythirtyspot.com

Every girl has a certain type of makeup that they just avoid like the plague. For some it’s eye shadow. Other lipstick. For me…it’s blush. I have some deep-seated fear of walking out of my house and being mistaken for a clown. (I know, it’s so irrational but work with me here, it’s a fear!) Slowly I am coming out of my blush-free shell and trying my hand at not looking completely pale all day long. If you’re having the same blush issues I had, well, I’ll share my wisdom with you and maybe you’ll come to love your blush as well!

Blush for your skin tone! If you too are scared of having clown identity crisis with blushes that are way too bright, then shop for your skin tone. That hot pink might not be as flattering as you think!  How to check for your natural blush look? Study your face after exercising or after a hot shower when you are flushed.

• Fair skin: Stick to neutrals like peachy pinks or slightly rosy pinks.
• Medium skin: To highlight your skin tone it’s best to choose brownish pinks or golden orangey-brown.
• Yellow under-toned skin: Corals and coppers will be your best friend to really bring out the natural look. Having a blush with a slight sparkle to it can also help highlight your subtle undertones.
• Olive skin: With your natural glow (lucky!) you should grab those pinks and deep peach colors.
• Ebony skin: You can get away with a lot more color, so explore shades of bright plums, deep auburns, bronze colors, and reds.

Powder or cream? Are they really that different? Yes they are! Powder blushes are perfect for a more finished look or for contouring. Also, opt for a powder blush if you have oily complexion, cause the powder can help absorb the grease! Cream on the other hand is better used to create a more outdoorsy and dewy flush. (Perfect for that natural look!) Cream blushes are also perfect for a dry complexion as to cut down on flaking.

I recently jumped trains from powder blushes to creams. Why? Powder blushes seemed too strong and also, I have dry skin! (You’re not alone out there!) While I still avoid using blush most of the time, I’m staring to get into it more and more! My clown fear will soon be gone! (I hope!) If you’re not sure your skin tone, or complexion, or want a more professional opinion about blushes head over to the best of the salons Pittsburgh has to offer, Verve 360! While you’re asking about makeup you could even schedule a hair appointment to try out one of the new styles for summer!