Known as ‘W blush’ or ‘fake sunburn blush’, this latest colour trend creates a gently diffused “W” shape across your cheeks and nose – hence the name, says editor Trudi Brewer. Read on to learn how to get the look.
How to get the look
It's been blowing up on Tik Tok and Instagram, and while it's not for everyone, a subtle version of this sunburn blush is both pretty and youth-boosting. Not to be confused with actual sunburn. Remember, no burn is healthy anywhere on your skin, especially on your face. Back to this blush technique, it's supposed to mimic the natural flush of colour you can get from the sun across the high points of the face and looks equally as good with cream or powder blush. It's all about finding a natural colour that blends well with your skin tone. Take the time to choose the perfect shade; if in doubt, go for a soft rose or subtle pink.
THE 'W 'TECHNIQUE USING POWDER BLUSH
Start at the outer apex of your cheekbone, buffing the colour into the centre of your cheekbones. Next, lightly brush blush over the bridge of your nose and across to the other cheekbone. Finally, make sure you smooth any hard lines using a clean powder brush if you're heavy-handed.
THE 'W' TECHNIQUE USING CREAM BLUSH
First, swipe cream blush in a 'W 'shape in three short horizontal stripes across the apples of the cheek and upper apex of the nose. Then, use a brush or your fingers to melt and blend the blush into the skin, keeping that soft 'W' shape.
Peach
It’s the most universally flattering colour; you can't go wrong with a peach blush. Especially if your complexion has yellow undertones, peach as a colour has orange and yellow tones, so it enhances that natural-looking flush on those skin tones. A formula that's sheer and blendable will look the most natural. This soft peach is perfectly placed by @makeupbyaugustina.
Our picks for a peach blush
Ciaté London Glow To Illuminating Blush in Summer Fling, $49. MECCA MAX Off Duty Blush Stick in Sorbet, $20.
Pink
When in doubt with blush colours, pink in every hue works for fair to medium skin tones; it’s delicate and pretty without being too girly. Try a sheer gel or cream texture, then buff on a powder over the top if you want to punch up the shade. We love this subtle look, pictured here on @kyo1122
Our picks for pink blush
Nars Liquid Blush in Orgasm, $49. Benefit Cosmetics Willa Soft Neutral Rose Blush Nude, $53.
Raspberry
Raspberry rose is just right for olive complexions. It falls in the middle range of pink and berry, ideal if your skin looks a little sallow in the winter; a rosy blush will give instant warmth, worn to perfection by @jameylynnblogs.
Our picks for a raspberry blush
MAC Glow Play Blush, in Cherry Tree, $58. FENTY BEAUTY Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Blush, in Strawberry Drip, $40.
Bronzer
This is not a deliberate tan; it’s the flush of bronze you get on a hot summer’s day, created with a shimmer - think effortless and luminous. Genius makeup artist, and one of our favourites, @leahbaines_mua, has this sunkissed glow.
The best bronzer blush
Nude by Nature Natural Mineral Blush in Virgin, $27.
Bobbi Brown Creamy Color For Cheeks & Lips, in Latte,
$58.
We ask the experts.