We want redheads to know they can rock anything!
For redheads new to makeup, it can be tempting to stay within the “neutral” boxes and follow some of the outdated makeup guidelines online. If you followed our How Redheads Can Wear series, we’re kicking off a new How Redheads Can Rock series focusing on makeup trends, unique tips, and busting myths that redheads can/can’t wear this or that.
For our first installment, let’s talk about blush — specifically, pink blush.
There are tons of articles and plenty of content online telling redheads to stay away from pink. Not just pink clothing, but pink makeup too. Because many redheads have pinkness to their skin, it is believed pink blush will accentuate it in a bad way. This is why orange-based blush tones like coral and peach are usually the recommended blush shades for redheads. We love these colors and think they absolutely complement redhead skin, but we’re here to prove to you that you can wear pink blush too.
Here are a few tips for how redheads can rock pink blush and look amazing doing it:
1. Finding the right shade is key
With any makeup, it’s important to find the right shade for your skin tone and undertones. When it comes to pink blush, there are tons of options from dark purply pinks to hot magenta pinks to pale cool-toned pinks and everything in between. For redheads, we love something a little more muted. The darker and more saturated shades can often overpower our skin. Mauves, cool-toned medium pinks, berry pinks, and rose-colored pinks all look amazing on redheads.
The shade that works best for you might not be the shade that works best for all redheads. That’s why it’s important to test out different blushes before deciding they aren’t for you. Many blushes look more saturated in color on the tube or pan than they do on the cheek.
Want to see a redhead rank some of the Rare Beauty Blush Shades? Check it out below:
@kylei.ann this was hard idk how abby lee miller did this on the weekly #rarebeauty #rarebeautyblush #blushforredheads 👩🏼🦰
2. Application, Application, Application: Yes, we said it 3 times!
The trick with blush is to know your application technique. Some people like to apply blush to the apples of the cheeks, while others like to apply it higher up on the cheekbone under the outer corner of the eye. These two placements will give you very different looks.
Applying blush to the apples will accentuate the cheeks and bring focus towards the center of the face helping the face feel fuller. Applying it under the eye at the high points of the cheekbone will draw the eye upwards and out helping your face appear more lifted. Pink-toned blushes can help to brighten the face and give a more youthful appearance. They can also be applied a the bridge of the nose and the tip of the nose to give a very natural flushed look.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply blush:
1. Prep your skin: Start with a clean and moisturized face. This ensures a smooth base for makeup application.
2. Choose the right blush: Select a blush shade that complements your skin tone and the look you want to achieve. For fair skin redheads, a soft pink or peachy blush works well.
3. Pick your tools: Use a blush brush or a makeup sponge for application. Make sure your tools are clean for a flawless finish.
4. Apply foundation: If you wear foundation, apply it before blush to even out your skin tone.
5. Find your cheekbones: Smile to locate the apples of your cheeks. This is where you’ll apply the blush for a natural flush.
6. Dab the blush: Dip your brush or sponge into the blush, tapping off any excess product.
7. Apply blush: Start from the apples of your cheeks and blend the blush upwards towards your temples in a gentle, circular motion. Blend well to avoid harsh lines.
8. Build as needed: Apply more blush gradually until you achieve the desired intensity. It’s easier to add more than to remove excess product.
9. Blend: Use a clean brush or sponge to blend any harsh edges for a seamless finish.
10. Set with powder: If desired, set your blush with a translucent powder to help it last longer throughout the day.
Remember, less is often more when it comes to blush application. Start with a light hand and build up the color gradually to avoid overdoing it.
3. Balance your look
If you’re feeling like pink-toned blush is too pink or too bright for your face, try using your other makeup to help balance it. Pink-toned eyeshadows look gorgeous on redheads and can help bring a cohesive look to the face. You can also soften your look a little with brown mascara and a nude or neutral lip to help the pink tones become part of the color palette.
For fair skin redheads, a pink blush paired with a nude lip or brown mascara can create a stunning look. Start with a light foundation or BB cream to even out your skin tone. Then, choose a soft pink blush to add a subtle flush to your cheeks, focusing on the apples. For the eyes, opt for a brown mascara to define your lashes without overpowering your fair complexion. Finally, complete the look with a nude lip color that complements your skin tone, leaning towards shades with peach or pink undertones for a natural finish.
4. Some of our favorite pink blush recs for redheads
- Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez Soft Pinch Liquid Blush in “Happy”, “Believe”, “Encourage” and “Worth”
- NARS Talc-Free Powder Blush in “Dominant”
- Maybelline Fit Me Blush in “25 Pink”
- Milani Baked Blush in “Dolce Pink”
- Saie Dew Blush Blendable Liquid Blush in “Cutie” or “Sweetie”
- essence | Pure Nude Baked Blush in “Pink Flush”
- e.l.f. Halo Glow Blush Beauty Wand in “Rose You Slay”
Rock it like a Redhead!
RELATED POSTS
READ: Where and How Redheads Should Apply Bronzer + Blush
READ: How Redheads Can Apply Cream Blush + Best Product Recommendations
