Q&A: Blush That Loves Mature Skin

Celebrity Makeup Artist, Emily Gray shares her expert tips – from best formulas to the most flattering application techniques 

What should we consider when shopping for blushes designed for mature skin and why?

-          When skin matures, it often becomes thinner and drier; this means that hydration and natural radiance are key. Emily Gray says she leans towards cream and liquid textures because they “add color and radiance” that does not set into fine lines. Powder formulas can still work, but hydrating formulas create the softest finishes.

Which blush formulations work best for mature skin?

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 Creams and liquids tend to work best because of their hydration factors. They moisturize while being lightweight and blendable. Emily Gray notes that mature skin is prone to being “more dry, sensitive and thin”, so hydration is key. Cream formulas are typically in a pot or stick, so they offer a creamy finish. Cream-to-powder blushes are very easy to work with and offer a soft finish. Liquid blushes are easier to sheer out and “tend to dry down”.

Let’s talk about the finishes. Which one do you like for mature skin and why?

-          Satin and dewy finishes will add a beautiful natural glow and are “the perfect radiant, hydrating blush”. As for shimmer, Emily Gray avoids strict rules saying, “I've never been a fan of telling people what they can and cannot wear” but points out that “blushes without shimmer and glitter may look more classic”.

Walk us through how to apply blush to mature skin (does the placement change when we are in our 40s vs 60s)

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  As always, “placement depends more on your face shape as opposed to the age of your skin”. When applying blushes, Emily Gray recommends “finding the apples of the cheeks and blending the blush up”. You do not want to bring your face down with blush placement.

What are your thoughts on brushes vs sponges vs our fingers for blush applications?

-          Product application can depend on the formula used. When using cream or liquid blushes, it is common to use your fingers because “the warmth of the hands helps to blend the cream blushes”. Although brushes can be used for every formula, Emily Gray says “brushes give you more control on where and how the product is blended”.

What is the two finger rule for blush?

-          The two-finger rule for blush is a technique that helps prevent applying blush too close to the nose or mouth. Applying blush too close can make the skin look more aged. Place two fingers vertically next to the nose, and that is your blush starting point.

What other application tips do you have for mature women?

-          Emily Gray points out two essentials, “pay attention to the undertone of your skin” and “blending a lot more for mature skin”. When choosing a blush shade, base it off your personal complexion. Blush should be “seamless with the rest of your skin” and “not look patchy. Harsh lines will age the skin.

How can we find the best blush color for our skin tone?

When choosing a blush color, Emily Gray says “the cooler your undertone, the more pink you want to go with your blush (ex. Catrice Blush Affair Cream & Powder in the shade “pleasing pink”)”. If you have a warmer complexion, the more peach you should go (ex. Catrice Blush Affair Cream & Powder in the shade “peach passion”). Also, “a universal shade on everyone is red”. This mimics blood flow and looks natural on everybody.

What are your favorite blushes for mature skin and why are they effective?

•          Catrice’s Blur Balm Blush Palette for mature skin, “it is only $8 and has 6 easy blended, vegan, radiant, gorgeous blushes”. This palette is all day wear with balm formulas and a blurring effect. For best application “you can use your fingers or a small brush”.