It’s the beauty staple sending celebs ‘blind’, but there’s a reason we keep reaching for it

Blush has taken over red carpets and Instagram feeds around the globe as stars like Zendaya, Hailey Bieber and Sabrina Carpenter embrace a new era of rosy, sun-kissed cheeks.

But could this be too much of a good thing? Have we all developed collective “blush blindness”?

The blush hype has been building for three years, catapulting the sales growth of products like Rare Beauty’s Soft Pinch Liquid Blush and the Rhode Pocket Blushes, both of which have become viral must-haves and supermarket dupes.

Some beauty industry insiders are now speculating that the trend has hit saturation point and is on the brink of a downturn, while everyday consumers accuse some influencers, makeup artists and celebrities of blush blindness.

Celebrity editorial and red carpet makeup artist Ashleigh Carpenter told nine.com.au blush blindness is definitely a real phenomenon, but it doesn’t happen for the reason most may think.

Have you got a story? Contact reporter Maddison Skipper: mskipper@nine.com.au

Read more

The hair accessory our editors are obsessed with thanks to Hailey Bieber

As for whispers that blush is on its way out, she’s not convinced.

Just a few weeks ago, Off Campus star Ella Bright was announced as the first celebrity ambassador for Selena Gomez’s brand Rare Beauty, which only recently released five new shades of its cult liquid blush.

Meanwhile, over on the Mecca website, Hailey Bieber’s coveted Rhode Pocket Blush is one of the top bestselling products across the entire makeup category, and Morphe’s Cheek Thrills Multi Finish Face Trio is currently trending.

According to Carpenter (and our shopping habits) blush isn’t going anywhere.

And since she’s done makeup for the likes of Sarah Snook, Phoebe Tonkin, Laufey, Phoebe Dynevor and Elizabeth Olsen, we have a feeling she knows what she’s talking about.

Here’s what you need to know to nail your own take on the timeless trend.

Why is blush so popular right now, and is it just another passing trend?

“Blush will always be on trend, and I think it has always been,” Carpenter said.

“The biggest difference between blushes now and those from years ago is how advanced the formulas have become.

“They’re longer lasting, mimic the look of real skin more beautifully and often include skincare ingredients that are kinder to the skin.”

New formulas have also paved the way for new techniques to apply and wear blush, like layering cream and powder products, or changing the placement to accentuate certain features.

How do you know which blush placement suits your face?

Everyone has different preferences for blush placement, so the best way to figure out what suits you is to try different options and see what you like best.

“You can place it on the apples of the cheeks for a natural flush or higher on the cheekbones to create the illusion of lift,” Carpenter said.

“I also love using blush on the eyelids and across the bridge of the nose for a sun-kissed look.”

If you’re still unsure, try going to a professional for advice – the team at Mecca are always willing to offer suggestions and even do paid makeup lessons at many locations.

Does blush blindness really exist, and how do you know if you have it?

Carpenter confirmed blush blindness does exist, but it’s not usually caused by simply applying too much product.

“If your blush feels too strong, it’s often because you’ve chosen a colour that’s too high in contrast for your features, or the wrong undertone,” she said.

“When you wear the right tone and level of contrast, everything works in harmony with your natural colouring. People should notice you first – not your blush.”

How do you know what blush shade suits you?

Picking the most harmonious blush for your complexion starts with figuring out your undertone and contrast level.

“Your undertone will determine whether you lean towards warm, cool or neutral shades, while your contrast level determines how bright, muted, light or deep your blush should be,” Carpenter explained.

“To work out your undertone, look at whether your skin leans warm, cool or neutral,” she said.

“To determine your contrast level, look at how much contrast there is between your skin, eyes and hair. Are your features soft and muted, or are they naturally high contrast?”

Understanding your undertone and contrast level can help you find better shade matches across all makeup products, not just blush.

Read more

The makeup staple that’s taking a back seat on celebrities’ faces

How do you know what blush formula works best for you?

This is all about your skin type and desired look (plus a bit of personal preference).

Cream blush: ”If your skin is on the dry to sensitive side, or you love a natural, glowy finish that’s soft and blendable, a nourishing cream blush will not only look beautiful, but also help to hydrate your skin.”

Liquid blush: ”A liquid blush is excellent if you love a skin-like finish with bolder pigment, giving a stronger colour payoff.”

Powder blush: A powder blush works particularly well on oilier skin types, helping to absorb excess oil and last longer throughout the day. It can also reduce unwanted shine in flash photography.”

You can also layer different formulas, which comes with its own benefits.

Do you really need to layer multiple blush products, and how should you do it?

“You don’t need to layer products; however, blush stacking helps create a multidimensional look that lasts longer,” Carpenter said.

“Begin by applying a cream blush to the cheeks, then apply a powder blush in a similar shade over the top.

“By layering the two formulas, you create a base that helps your blush last longer while giving a richer colour payoff.”