For skin that appears more yellow, Tsoi recommends avoiding brownish tones. “Instead, try blue-based pinks and berry tones to counteract the yellow-brown hue,” she says. Here’s where peach, bright coral and rich cherry tones – such as Nars’ Orgasm Rush, Dominant and Teased – can come in handy, helping brighten the complexion. On the other hand, for someone dealing with excessive pigmentation – often seen as a brown-and-blue undertone – Tsoi suggests trying “peach, coral and red-toned blushes as colour correctors and to neutralise the discolouration”.

Amid today’s surfeit of choice, powder blushes have maintained their status as a classic, appreciated for their ease of application and longevity. With advancements in formulation, powder blushes are finely milled and enriched with pigments that provide a more natural and buildable coverage.

An example of powder’s enduring popularity is Nars’ recently reimagined powder blush line with an upgraded formula, offering 20 shades – from fresh inclusions to timeless bestsellers. “Powder blush is a familiar choice for everyone, as it is not only easy to apply but also easy to control,” Tsoi explains. “Powder blush is typically used after applying foundation and setting powder, which helps it last longer and achieve more noticeable results,” she says, adding that this can be particularly beneficial for those with oily skin.

Cream blushes have also emerged as a favourite, thanks in part to their versatility: they can be easily blended with fingers, a brush or a sponge, allowing for seamless integration into the skin. “Cream blush is known for its long-lasting and highly pigmented formula. The application method is similar to liquid blush, where you only need a small amount,” says Tsoi. Another reason for cream blushes’ popularity lies in their ability to mimic the skin’s natural glow. “Cream and liquid blushes usually provide a dewier finish and can provide more longevity on dryer skin types,” McCormick says.

For a more soft, round and plump effect, “you will want to apply the blush more on the apples of the cheeks to keep it looking more full,” Adams elaborates. “You can blend in a bit closer to the nose, but keep the pigment focused more in the centre of the cheek instead of blending it up into the temple.”

Another key to blush application lies in starting light and gradually building pigment. “It’s always easier to add more product rather than try and take it away,” McCormick notes. Using the right brush is equally important. “For more precision application, I love to use the smaller end of [Hourglass Cosmetics’] Veil Powder Brush,” she adds.

A common mistake is applying blush too low on the face. “This drags the face down when the goal of blush is to lift. To avoid this, do not go lower than the cheekbone when applying. Always apply on or above the cheekbone and ensure it blends upwards towards your temples and hairline. This gives the appearance of a lifted complexion,” McCormick says.

Another usual error is not choosing a starting point. “The strongest colour payoff will be at the first point of brush contact to skin,” Tsoi notes. “Start application where the strongest impact is desired, as this is the area where you will create the most prominent ‘flushed’ effect.”