Whether you’re aiming for a healthy flush or a natural glow as a woman over 50, coral blush is a makeup bag essential. The out-of-the-box hue is gaining popularity thanks to social media platforms including TikTok and Instagram, and it’s the perfect pop of color for summer. While you might be hesitant to try coral blush as rosy options are more standard, the orangey burst is universally flattering. Still unsure how to incorporate this shade into your look? First turned to the beauty pros to uncover all the best coral blush tips and tricks, how to apply it and the best products you should have in your collection.
Why should you use coral blush?
Coral blush is a bright and versatile color that blends pink and orange hues to make a fresh, warm tone. It’s perfect for adding a pop of color, brightening the face or giving you a healthy, natural-looking glow. It “can range from softer peachy shades to more intense and bolder reds, making it a great choice for many skin tones,” explains Andrew Grella, the CEO and founder of Formen Makeup, a pioneering company specializing in men’s makeup and grooming products.
Cassandra McClure, a celebrity makeup artist and the founder of Clean Beauty Collective also points out that although it can be adapted for any season, coral blush really shines in the spring or summertime. You can try out different finishes such as a matte for a daytime look or a shimmer for a night out and it’ll add a different layer to your makeup routine.
How to apply coral blush
When it comes to coral blush, you should “always consider the overall balance of your makeup when applying a brighter blush; keeping the eyes and lips more neutral can make your cheeks the standout feature of your look,” explains McClure.
Blush isn’t limited to the cheeks and a fun shade like this allows you to experiment with some bolder looks on the eyes and lips.
Coral blush on the cheeks
“You can start by applying it to the apples of your cheeks and blending it upwards towards your temples for a natural flush. For something bolder, use more product and layer it for intensity,” says Grella.
Using coral blush on the eyes
Since coral blush is so versatile, McClure suggests adding it to an eyeshadow look. “It provides a cohesive color theme, and visually lifts the face,” she says.
Layer coral blush with bronzer, highlighter or lip tint
McClure says this shade is great to experiment with and use in addition to other products. “Mix coral blush with bronzer for a sun-kissed effect or with a pinker blush for a more dimensional look.” Using it with a lip tint also works well because “applying the same blush on the lips can tie the look together.
The Dos and Don’ts of Coral Blush
Sloane Casper, celebrity makeup artist says that it’s key that your blush and bronzer are working together. “Placement and blending are key. There should be no lines of demarcation on the skin. In other words, I shouldn’t be able to see where your blush, bronzer, highlight , contour and foundation start or stop.”
You’ll also want to add a smidge of color to your nose, but “don’t put too much on the tip of the nose or blend too close to the eyes, you’ll look like you have a cold,” says Casper
Best coral blush for your skin tone and skin type
It’s important to look for products that work for your skin tone and type. Coral blushes come in various shades and finishes, but your preference plays a role too.
Here are some of the best coral blushes from creams to powders that will give you that perfect pop of color.
Best coral blush for fair skin
ILIA Multi-stick in the shade In the Mood
This multi-stick is great for the lips or the cheeks, and McClure says that this shade “looks natural and subtle on lighter skin tones, perfect for adding just a hint of coral.”
Best coral blush for medium-skin
Mac Sheertone Shimmer Blush in the shade PeachyKeen
Grella recommends this blush for medium skin because the color is buildable but still provides a natural glowy finish.
Best coral blush for dark skin
Milani rose powder blush in the shade Coral Cove
“Darker skin tones may find that Milani’s Coral Cove suit them best,” says Grella. The color is vibrant and you can easily build it up for a more dramatic look. Plus, the $10.99 price tag is super affordable.
Best coral blush for mature skin
Glossier Cloud Paint in the shade Beam
“For hydrating options, stick to cream or gel formulas, like Glossier’s Cloud Paint” says Brella. This one is also good for mature skin because it moisturizes and won’t settle into fine lines.
For more makeup tips, check out the links below!
8 Best Lash Growth Serums That Volumize Thin, Sparse Lashes
Makeup Artists: The Strategic Way to Apply Blush to Accentuate Your Best Features
