How To Apply Cream Blush Like an MUA
Calling all aspiring MUAs to the floor! We’re here to teach you how to apply cream blush like a pro.
In this guide, we’ll take a close look at the basics of cream blush (like what makes it different from a traditional powder blush), where you should apply it, and the simple steps to follow when you’re ready to rock it.
Whether you’re just starting your makeup journey or already a makeup aficionado looking for a few extra tips to take your makeup game to the next level, this guide has something for everyone.
What Is an MUA?
Before we dive into the world of cream blush, we have to answer a basic question you might have had when you read the title of this guide: what’s an MUA? MUA is an acronym for makeup artist. You’ll often see this title used on the internet, in people’s bios, or as a hashtag.
Given that the beauty industry is vast, there’s no specific qualification or definition for what makes someone a makeup artist. Although they were traditionally the professionals called upon to get celebrities red-carpet ready, with the introduction of social media, anyone can learn how to be an MUA and start to create their own content.
MUA can be used to describe makeup artists who work backstage at fashion shows or do makeup for private events, but it also might refer to someone who films tutorials from the comfort of their own home.
The beauty of the ever-expanding world of makeup is that with the right products and a few tutorials, anyone can become an MUA!
What Is Cream Blush?
Now that we’ve got the MUA terminology covered, it’s time to move on to cream blush.
Cream blush sits in the middle on the scale from liquid to powder. It has a smooth, creamy (as you might have guessed) texture and often comes in a circular pot or a lipstick-like tube.
You can apply cream blush with your fingers, a makeup sponge, or a makeup brush. People are usually drawn to cream blush because it gives a dewy, natural glow to the skin and has a silky, weightless feel.
What’s the Difference Between Cream Blush, Liquid Blush, and Powder Blush?
For as long as cream and liquid blush have been around, there’s been a debate about whether they’re better than traditional powder blush and when you should wear each kind.
The good news? There are no hard and fast rules, and it’s up to you to decide which formula feels the best and works the best with your skin!
Generally speaking, cream blush provides a good middle ground between liquid blush, which can sometimes blend too much into the skin, and powder blush, which may cling uncomfortably to the skin — especially for people with dry or mature skin.
Because cream blush is easy to apply and tends to be more pigmented than powder blush, it’s a go-to product for many people. The fact that it’s easy to remove cream blush and you can wear it with minimal face makeup also makes this product a must for makeup lovers.
If you’re looking for a cream blush that can do it all, we recommend the Very Cherry Cheek & Lip Cream Stack which is a lip and cheek product all in one!
Where Should You Apply Cream Blush?
When it comes to where you should apply your cream blush, you have a few options.
The first technique is the traditional application to the apples of your cheeks.
To find the apples of your cheeks, simply smile without opening your lips. The highest points of your cheeks are the apples of your cheeks, and you can apply your blush to the apples of your cheeks and then trace the line of your cheekbones from there if you want a more dramatic look.
Now, this method works perfectly for some people, but for others, it can have the effect of dragging the face down. If that’s the case for you, you may want to try an alternative technique.
First, find the center of your pupil. From there, draw an imaginary line across to the very top of your cheekbone (make sure you have a straight face, no smiling for this one). Start applying your blush diagonally up from this point for a more lifted look.
If you want a bolder blush look, you can apply it along your cheekbones. For a more subtle look, stick to the apples of your cheeks or the tops of your cheekbones. If you want a natural, sun-kissed vibe, apply a little bit of blush to the bridge of your nose and along your cheeks in all the places the sun would naturally hit your face.
How To Apply Cream Blush
Now that you know what cream blush is and where to apply it, it’s time to get into the specifics of how you can apply it. This section will provide a step-by-step guide to applying your cream blush like an MUA.
Prep Your Skin
Before you even think about blush, you need to prep your skin. This involves doing your daily skincare routine, moisturizing, and priming your skin. Once your skin is ready, you can apply your foundation, concealer, and bronzer.
As we mentioned earlier, cream blush has a more subtle, natural feel than powder blush, so you don’t need to apply a full base if you want to wear it (of course, full glam is always an option, but it’s not a must!).
To get the glowing look everyone’s after nowadays, use all cream and liquid products to create your base. They will blend better with your cream blush and provide your whole look a more dewy feel.
If you have some powder products you love and absolutely must use, just make sure to give your glam a close look when you’re finished to ensure that nothing looks streaky or uneven with the mixed textures.
Apply Blush
It’s time to apply your cream blush. Using either your hands (after a thorough wash), a beauty sponge, or a blush brush, apply your cream blush first to your cheeks, then sweep it upwards along your cheekbones.
Drawing the blush along your cheekbones will give your face more depth. If you don’t want to extend your blush, apply just a touch to your cheeks to avoid looking like you have two big dots of blush and nothing else.
Remember that layering is the name of the game when it comes to applying blush. Always start with a light application, then gradually add more if you want a more pigmented color. To achieve a natural flushed look, blend out small amounts of blush at a time until you get your desired look.
Highlight and Touch-Up
Once you’re happy with the look of your blush, you’re ready to put the finishing touches on your look. If you want to add even more to the glowy look of your skin, you can add a high-shine highlighter just above where you applied the blush on your cheekbones.
To add even more radiance to your skin, you can apply highlighter to the inner corners of your eyes, on the tip of your nose, and on your collarbones.
If you notice that your blush looks too dramatic, you can remove a little or add more bronzer to the hollows of your cheeks. This will balance out your blush and give your whole look a more sculpted vibe. To remove blush, you can either take your blush brush and blend it out or use a makeup sponge to diffuse some of the product off your face entirely.
The Silky Magic of Cream Blush
You’re officially a MUA-level, cream blush pro! With these basic application tips, you’re ready to incorporate cream blush into your makeup looks, from the simple “I’m just running out to get groceries” to your full glam look for a big night out.
Once you master your cream blush looks and start snap your selfies, make sure to tag us! At SHEGLAM, we want to be a part of your most special makeup moments!