Beauty Q&A: What Is a Blush Oil?

Blush doesn’t nearly get the credit it deserves on a daily basis, and when we see a new innovative formula to play or drape with, we know we have to score all the deets. Recently, we’ve been seeing a lot of liquid blushes cross our desks, like the classic Giorgio Armani Fluid Sheer but we’ve also come across new formulations of this same type of product — blush oils. Blush oils are glowy, oil-like formulas that give you a hydrated, cheeky look. We asked NYC-based makeup artist Kasey Spickard to explain the best way to apply blush oils, ahead. 

What’s the Best Way to Apply Blush Oil?

According to Spickard, you can apply a blush oil directly onto the face as it usually comes in a stick form, or blend it out with your fingers. You can also apply this with a brush if you prefer. Spickard recommends “swirling the product on the back of the hand and then using a flat-top, dense blending brush to tap it onto the cheeks for more control.” 

Can You Apply It Over Existing Makeup?

Because blush oil is so dewy (and is primarily oil-based), it’s important to be careful with what kind of makeup you apply it over. “I would never apply this over a matte or fully powdered face because it will end up looking streaky,” says Spickard. You want to make sure you’re using a foundation that has a natural or dewy finish instead, if you’re going to apply it over top. Of course, the other best way to apply blush oil is over a primed, bare face if you’re looking to achieve a more minimalist effect.

How to Set Blush Oil

Setting blush oil is not something you have to worry about, says Spickard. “The point is to have that wet, hydrated look.” You do, however, want to make sure you’re using blush oils that have strong pigments. “This stain-like effect will ensure a long-lasting finish on the skin.”

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