Bonjour guys! Today I want to talk about a fun makeup hack – using eyeshadow as blush. I know this may sound a little strange to some of my American readers, but using eyeshadow on the cheeks is quite common in France.
The French have always been at the forefront of beauty and fashion trends, n’est-ce pas? So trust me when I say that this technique can give you a natural, beautiful flush with minimal effort.
Here are a few tips on how to use eyeshadow as blush!
Use a Small Amount
Eyeshadow tends to be more pigmented than traditional blush, so you only need to use a small amount. Start by smiling in the mirror and lightly dab a bit of powder on the apples of your cheeks using a fluffy brush.
Build up the color gradually until you achieve the look you want. Voila! With just a swipe of your favorite eyeshadow, you can sculpt and define your cheekbones.
Try Different Shades
The possibilities are endless when it comes to shade combinations. Try using a shimmery champagne or soft pink for a romantic glow. For a bold summer look, sweep on a vibrant coral or purple. Come fall and winter, deeper plums and berries make a striking statement.
Will it Last?
The longevity of eyeshadow versus blush depends on a few factors.
In general, eyeshadows tend to be more densely pigmented and longer lasting on the skin compared to traditional powder blushes. The rich pigments in eyeshadow are designed to withstand creasing and fading on the eyelids. However, the cheek area tends to be more oily and prone to fading makeup.
Using an eye primer underneath your makeshift eyeshadow-blush can help increase the wear time. Applying a light layer of finishing powder over top also helps set the color. Cream blushes tend to have better staying power than powders, so using a cream eyeshadow formula as blush can provide extended wear.
Binding Agents
Blush formulas specifically created for the cheeks often contain binding agents that adhere pigments to the skin better than standard eyeshadows. So while eyeshadow can work beautifully as blush, traditional blush products will likely outlast eyeshadow on the cheeks over time.
The key is to use a very light hand with eyeshadow blush – less is more! Build up color gradually and set with powder to help the flush go the distance. With the right application, eyeshadow can give cheeks a naturally glowing look that lasts from morning to night.
Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and experiment with eyeshadow as a blush. This is one trick all my French girlfriends swear by for a natural flush.
Stay tuned for more tips and tricks as we explore the intersection of French beauty and American style! Bisous
