The Effect and Application of "Outside-In" Blush

First, let's review the effects and application areas of blush. Naturally, blush is applied to the cheeks, which are the largest area of the face. Therefore, without blush, the face can appear less defined or larger. Everyone likely realizes that blush adds dimension and a slimming effect. Additionally, it can make the complexion appear more vibrant and beautiful by adding a healthy flush.

There are two ways to apply blush, and their effects differ slightly. The first is the "outside-in" method. This application adds dimension and a radiant finish. It primarily uses pressed powder blush and a blush brush.

Begin application near the hollow of the cheekbone beside the ear (where your teeth meet). From there, sweep the brush straight up to the highest point of the cheekbone, lifting it off the skin. Following this, apply from the hollow towards the outer edge of the eyebrow, towards the outer corner of the eye, and towards the center of the eye. Then, change direction and apply from the point where the line below the pupil intersects with the side of the nose, sweeping outwards along the cheekbone two to three times in the same spot.

The key to a natural finish is to apply in one continuous motion from the starting point near the ear to the end, without adding more blush to the brush. Also, sweep the brush smoothly off the skin without stopping.

By applying in this manner, from the outer part of the face upwards and inwards, and then from the inner part outwards, you can naturally emphasize the contours of the cheeks, thereby enhancing the slimming effect. Combined with the color of the blush, it also creates a more glamorous impression.

The Effect and Application of "Inside-Out" Blush

The other method is "inside-out" application. This method emphasizes color to create definition in the face. It results in a cute, youthful, and healthy appearance. You can use pressed powder, cream, or stick blush. For pressed powder, use a brush; for cream, use your fingers or a sponge; for stick, apply directly and blend with your fingers.

Since the blush I've picked out this time is a stick type, I'll apply it directly to the cheeks first. Apply in three spots. Start from the fullest part of the cheek below the pupil, then move diagonally downwards. Next, shift the stick slightly outwards and apply a shorter diagonal line downwards, then shift again slightly outwards for an even shorter diagonal line downwards. Each of the three lines should extend to the hollow of the cheekbone.

It's easier to see if you smile while applying. Also, when applying to the skin, instead of holding the flat side of the stick parallel, tilt it slightly and apply with the edge for a smoother, more even application. The trick is to apply with light, sweeping strokes, as if drawing lines on your skin.

Then, using the pads of your middle and ring fingers parallel to the skin, gently blend from the inner cheek towards the outer edge of the eyebrow. This area is where the skin naturally flushes when you're young and healthy. In other words, this blush application method recreates the natural flush of the skin. That's why it creates a healthy impression, as well as a youthful and cute look.

Cream and stick blushes offer more sheerness than pressed powders, making them appear more natural and resulting in a lighter finish. Stick types are also easier to use because you can adjust the amount of product applied.

Which Blush is Right for Summer?

Now, this "inside-out" application, which creates a "natural, light, and healthy" impression, is perfect for the summer season. Summer fashion tends to be more casual than in other seasons, and the amount of skin exposed increases, naturally creating a lighter impression. Makeup that looks too "done" would clash with such fashion and appear unfashionable. Moreover, it doesn't suit the bright summer sunlight. Makeup should harmonize not only with the face but also with fashion and, importantly, with nature.

However, while it's important for base makeup (foundation and blush) to harmonize with fashion and nature, point makeup doesn't need to match to the same extent. In the extreme, point makeup can remain the same all year round. It's most important to align with "your own individuality."

However, as mentioned earlier, adjusting your base makeup to match your fashion and the season (even slightly) creates a more sophisticated and stylish impression. In other words, the key to makeup in the hot season is to prioritize transparency and lightness. In this sense, using a stick blush with the "inside-out" application method is recommended for summer.

Why not change your blush type and application method for summer to a "light and airy summer blush"?