The 'Boyfriend Blush' beauty trend is here to stay and slay

Looks like the '90s have managed to show up in yet another makeup trend and to be honest, I really don’t mind! I’m talking about the viral ‘Boyfriend Blush’ trend. Started by Makeup Artist Mallory Osses, this trend has even made its way to the MET Gala and celebrities are obsessed with it. Right from Gigi Hadid, and Kendall Jenner to Tyla and Hailey Bieber, the divas looked stunning as they flaunted their rosy cheeks. This trend gained popularity when Mallory took TikTok by storm and gained 84.8 million views on her video. 

In the 90s, the blush placement was rather generous, heavily weighted on the apples of the cheeks. Today, we’re looking at its toned-down version with a shift in placement. Imagine the flush on your cheeks after a long workout session. It makes your skin look healthy, naturally radiant and glowing. Being a fan of the post-workout glow myself, I used to wish for my skin to look like that all the time. That’s when social media played Genie and granted us the Boyfriend Blush trend.

Let me teach you how to master this blush technique.

How to apply the Boyfriend Blush?

Instead of applying blush to the highest point of your cheeks, the boyfriend blush technique involves placing it lower, below your cheekbone. (Think Prince Harry; his naturally flushed cheeks of course.) The blush should be extended from the centre towards your ears, covering a larger area of your cheeks than usual. Bear in mind that you need to build it up gradually, or else it might end up looking like rosacea.

While this may seem like excessive product use, the result you get is pretty stunning. Your skin looks like it has been out in the sun while you’re doing some form of physical activity, with blood rushing to your face. The best reference to this look is Princess Diana’s makeup in her early years. 

 

What product to use?

This natural rosy flush, although pretty, may not be everybody’s cup of tea since it requires applying more product than usual. Many people prefer the no-makeup look with minimal use of pigment. This is precisely why using cream blushes is favourable as they look super dewy and blend flawlessly into your skin, making you look flushed from within. Powder blushes may not lend the same finish.  

Why has this trend gained so much popularity?

Because it came from a professional makeup artist and just how pretty it looks, the popularity is justified but it’s also about giving people something new to try. Trends are usually short-lived but this one looks like it's here to stay. It’s fresh, effortless and wearable. To every individual who suffers from ‘blush blindness’, this trend has presented itself as the perfect opportunity for them to overdo their blush without looking like it's been overdone. Clearly, people love applying blush, and rightly so! It’s a game-changer. I love blush and feel like no makeup look is complete without it.  

Does it suit all face types?

Luckily, it does! However, you need to ensure that the placement is in line with your bone structure and features so that it compliments your face. From what I have observed, it suits heart-shaped faces better but hey, there are no rules to makeup! With a little tweaking here and there, you can make it work. I know I did and I have a round face.

With all the trends that come and go, I definitely approve of this one. Makeup that doesn’t look like makeup is the best kind of makeup!

All images: Getty

Also read: No flaky skin—here's your ultimate glow up guide for winter!

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