Even though the summer fashion season is almost over (FML), it’s not too late to follow summer makeup trends. The “sunburn blush,” a blushing technique that claims to leave the skin shining as though you’ve just returned from the beach, seems to be the biggest trend on social media at the moment. Even stars like Billie Eilish have jumped on the bandwagon. The idea is really simple: liberally dab your favourite blush over your cheeks and nose (and honestly, anywhere else you feel so inclined). Overall, the appearance is one of a glowing, flushed complexion that virtually screams summer.
The sunburn blush has recently been spotted on a lot of celebs, including Emily Ratajakowski, Hailey Bieber and Eilish. Although the method is nothing new, TikTok has just given it a new lease on life. There are currently millions of views on the hashtag #sunburnblush, and the app is flooded with videos of people attempting to replicate the look for themselves.
If the SunBlush trend hasn’t yet infiltrated your FYP, I promise that it’s only a matter of time. Read on for all the information on this fad, including application advice from TikTok.
Prep your skin
Of course, you can’t just dab makeup on your face. To have the perfect sunblush look, you’ll need to prep your skin. Start your fake sun-burn look with your regular skincare routine. Toner and moisturizer are a must to give your skin that dewy texture. You can also choose to exfoliate your skin the night before. This will help remove dead skin and define your skin texture. The thing I like to do (or what most TikTokers do) is to rub ice on my skin right before I start my skincare routine. This adds that freshness to the skin.
Choose a high-pigment blush
@makeupbymonicaa Ugh I’ll alwyas be obsessed with @rarebeauty 😭❤️ #blush#browngirlblush#rarebeauty#liquidblush#makeupreview#makeuptips#browngirlmakeup ♬ original sound – ❦
This trend is all about adding vivid colour, while keeping it natural, and was inspired by actual sunburn. Having said that, you’ll need a good blush for pigment if you want to rock the SunBlush trend in all its pink-red-orange splendour.
Pick a natural shade
@makeupbymonicaa Ugh I’ll alwyas be obsessed with @rarebeauty 😭❤️ #blush#browngirlblush#rarebeauty#liquidblush#makeupreview#makeuptips#browngirlmakeup ♬ original sound – ❦
While experimenting with vibrant hues is always enjoyable, this trend is all about selecting a shade that complements your natural skin tone. Choosing the ideal hue takes time, since you want it to appear as though the sun hit you in all the appropriate spots.
Although the majority of TikTok users choose liquid blushes for the faux sunburn fad, choosing the proper high-pigment colour is more important. Additionally, powder blushes can be built up well without appearing cakey, making them ideal for easing you into this trend. The thing about sunburn blush is, there are no colours involved. All you need is a very natural shade that suits your skin.
Apply to cheek and nose
@zoekimkenealy Sunkissed blush. I legit am obsessed with the way this came out gotta have a heavy hand😫 #sunkissedmakeup #nomakeupmakeup #naturalblush ♬ Sazed – STRFKR
Application is crucial for this trend. Apply equal amounts of pigment to your nose and cheeks to give them colour. Keep in mind that you want to appear slightly sunburned, not like you really need some aloe. As long as you’re willing to blend it out to a more natural tint, you can use a heavier hand in this area. Even so, it’s a good idea to remember that adding more blush is always simpler than removing it (especially if it’s the final step in your makeup routine).
Apart from these three tips, another #BeautyTok favourite is the blush contour, which you may also try if you’re feeling a bit more bold. Although the positioning is more precise and the overall impact might not be as natural, it will still have a comparable sun-kissed feel.
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