How To: Flushed Cheeks

This spring it’s all about flushed cheeks — the beauty statement that happens to be the epitome of freshness. A healthy dose of color perks up the complexion and imparts a youthful glow. Best of all, it’s a universally flattering makeup trend that you can tailor to your specific tastes. We worked with professional makeup artists Tara Shakespeare and Emma Willis for Contour Fossa to try two of our favorite ways to wear the look. One is matte and rosy. The other is dewy and berry-hued. Both are beautifully wearable.

Flushed Cheeks: Matte Pink

Pink cheeks are pretty much a staple of any beauty repertoire. All you need is a fluffy brush and a poppy, highly pigmented powder to pull off the look. Focus the color on the apples of the cheeks and set it with a mattifying powder. We used Lancôme Blush Subtil in Sparkling Rose. Keep the look monochromatic by carrying the pink color onto the eyelids and doing one final dusting of color down the bridge of the nose.

Flushed Cheeks: Dewy Berry

Make sure the skin is well moisturized before attempting the dewy look. Then use your fingers to blend cream blush along the cheeks. We used a combination of Maybelline Face Studio Master Glaze in Make a Mauve and Plums Up to create this very berry glow. When the focus is on the blush, the rest of the makeup can be kept very natural. For a fully fresh-faced look, just add tinted lip balm, mascara and a light wash of shimmer on the eyes.   What’s your go-to blush shade? Share your favorites below. Photos: Joshua M Shelton Photography Makeup: Tara Shakespeare and Emma Willis for Contour Fossa Models: Lily Berlina and Melanie Thompson