Skin loses luster as we get older; therefore, women tend to wear makeup to maintain that youthful glow. Luckily, adding a bit of mascara and a vibrant pop of color to the cheeks can instantly turn back the clock a few years. However, many may not be aware of the common mistakes that actually leave you looking older. The following techniques can help you appear younger. Proper blush application is definitely high on the priority list.
The key to a fresh-faced finish is avoiding certain blush colors, especially if you have an older face. In general, opt for light pinks and peaches if you have fair skin, and berry shades for darker skin tones. Aside from picking the right colors, your application techniques make all the difference. This also depends on your shape face, since placement is paramount.
As we age, gravity pulls our features down. We can therefore combat a droopy appearance by placing our blush in the right spot. Many apply blush mainly to the apple of the cheeks, which isn’t necessarily wrong. However, if you want to lift your face, skip that area. Instead, concentrate the color on the outer half of your cheeks and follow the peak of the cheekbones.
When you don’t know where to begin, place 2 fingers along the side of your nose as a guide, and start the blush from the outer finger as your ideal starting point. Using a medium size fluff brush, apply the color along your cheeks, focusing on bringing the blush upwards, toward your temples. Don’t be afraid to go high, as this will create the effect of chiseled cheekbones, which will in turn make your face appear taut. Be sure to blend well along the hairline so it doesn’t end abruptly. This will help create a seamless look.
Another trick to looking younger is to add fullness to the face when you feel your cheeks look hollow. Applying blush to the center of the face will correct this problem. Many people smile and place the color on the apple of the cheeks. However, smiling lifts our features temporarily, and then when you relax your face, the blush can end up too low. A helpful trick is to look straight ahead into the mirror, smile, and apply the blush only on the top half of the apple of your cheeks, using a circular motion. Next, blend the color up towards your under-eye area, making sure there are no visible edges. Lastly, dust a shimmery highlighter color on top of the blush for a radiant and beautiful glow.
If you want to add dimension to your face, you will need to work with two colors. Layering your blush creates a gorgeous 3-D effect, that will have you looking younger in a snap. You will need your regular color and another one that’s 2-3 shades darker. Make sure the colors are in the same family and complimentary. You certainly would not want to mix burgundy and peach. Begin by applying a slightly darker blush right under your cheekbones, concentrating the color on the very outer area, creating a subtle shadow for a more sculpted effect. Then, apply the lighter blush above the apples of your cheeks. Brush the shade upwards toward your hairline, slightly overlapping the contour. Make sure not to blend the colors together to avoid a muddy finish. As a last step, place a bit of shimmery highlighter at the top of the cheekbones. Always remember that sometimes less is more.
Makeup application is an optical illusion. When applied correctly, it can help create a youthful appearance, add dimension to the face, and make your face come alive. As they say: A little powder and paint make a woman what she aint.
Risselle Naimark is a Professional Freelance Makeup Artist and Skincare Consultant. She carries an extensive line of personalized skincare, cosmetics, and anti-aging products. Risselle is also available for weddings, Bar Mitzvahs, makeup lessons, and all of your beauty needs. She can be reached at 718 263-5517.
