For the Most Natural and Flattering Blush, These Brushes Are Key

If you want that perfect hint of flush on your cheeks that looks completely natural, you're going to have to start with the right blush. And once you find your perfect match, you're going to need a blush brush that can help you smooth the color onto your cheeks. Sure, you can use your fingers for some blushes, but I find that a brush can give you a little bit more control over the intensity of color and the finish. Also, brushes can help you deposit just the right amount of color without wasting any product. Not to mention that using a brush is not as messy as using your fingers—keep your hands product-free!

Makeup artist Renée Loiz told us that a blush brush is slightly smaller than a powder brush and the bristle shape is complementary to your cheek shape. "The blush brush should fit perfectly on the apples of your cheeks where you would naturally place blush. You can also use this brush for bronzing, highlighting, or contouring," she says.

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(Image credit: @gracemahary)

When it comes to choosing one, you'll want to think about the types of blush formulas you use—powder, liquid, creams—that will help guide you. Duo fiber brushes (both natural and synthetic) are great for blending and buffing cream and liquid products, but they can also be used with powder formulas, makeup artist Maya René. And she adds that synthetic brushes are best for liquid products and natural for loose or pressed powders. If you want a more intense color, choose a dense brush, but for a lighter application, go for something that's fluffy.

And once you get a blush brush, make sure you take care of it. Clean it to rid the brush of any bacteria and dirt—this will also ensure that they last you for a really long time. Use your favorite brush cleanser to give it a good clean. How often you do so depends on preference and how much you use it, but many makeup artists recommend once a week or once every two weeks.

Shop some of our favorite blush brushes below.

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(Image credit: @ariannabaq)

1. Sigma Beauty F10 Powder/Blush Brush

2. It Brushes for Ulta Love Beauty Fully Flawless Blush Brush #227

3. Wet N Wild Blush Brush

4. Clinique Blush Brush

5. Sephora Collection Pro Blush Brush #99

6. Bobbi Brown Blush Brush

7. EcoTools Precision Blush Makeup Brush

8. Hourglass No. 2 Foundation/Blush Brush

9. Real Techniques Ultra Plush Blush Makeup Brush

10. E.l.f. Blush Brush

11. Morphe R46 Cream Powder Blush Brush

12. EcoTools Travel Kabuki Makeup Brush

13. Chanel Les Pinceaux de Chanel Blush Brush No. 110

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(Image credit: @aysha.sow)

Blushes to Try

Next: If You Want More Coverage, Makeup Artists Say This Is the Best Concealer

Managing Editor

Sarah is lifestyle writer and editor with over 10 years of experience covering health and wellness, interior design, food, beauty, and tech. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she attended New York University and lived in New York for 12 years before returning to L.A. in 2019. In addition to her work on THE/THIRTY andBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing , she held editor roles at Apartment Therapy, Real Simple, House Beautiful, Elle Decor, and The Bump (sister site of The Knot). She has a passion for health and wellness, but she especially loves writing about mental health. Her self-care routine consists of five things: a good workout, “me” time on the regular, an intriguing book/podcast/playlist to unwind after a long day, naps, and decorating her home.