Gen Z has been captivated by the new blush trend that is dominating TikTok. This trend involves wearing ultra-bright blush that gives the appearance of a sunburned look. Celebrities like pop star Sabrina Carpenter and Emily Ratajkowski have been seen sporting this look, while Hailey Bieber’s cosmetic brand Rhode has even released a line of vibrant blushes to cater to this trend. Content creators on TikTok, such as Rachel Carlisle, have also been showcasing this bold blush look, causing a stir among viewers who have mixed opinions on the technique.
Some viewers have referred to this extreme blush application as “blush blindness” or “too red,” with some saying that it resembles a sunburn more than a makeup look. Despite the criticism, many are intrigued by this trend as a safer alternative to achieving a sun-kissed glow without the harmful effects of sun exposure or tanning beds. Influencers like Kim Lloyd have been promoting this trend as a way to achieve a sunburned look without damaging the skin, encouraging others to experiment with this bold makeup technique.
In addition to applying the bright blush on the cheeks, nose, and forehead, some makeup gurus have taken the trend further by creating faux tan lines around their eyes and décolletage to mimic the appearance of summer sun exposure. While this level of extreme blushing may not be for everyone, others can still participate in the trend by simply packing on the pigment on the apples of the cheeks. The key is to experiment and find the right balance of color intensity that works best for each individual’s preferences.
Hailey Bieber has advised those looking to try this trend to start with a modest amount of blush and gradually build up the color intensity to their liking. This buildable nature of blush products allows for customization based on personal preferences and comfort levels. Blush has become a staple in makeup bags everywhere, thanks to the rise of trends like “boyfriend blush,” “sunset blush,” and “cold girl makeup,” which have brought a new sense of fun and playfulness to makeup routines, replacing the bronzy, contoured look of the 2010s.
While it remains uncertain whether the blush trend will continue to gain momentum in the future, experts believe that the current maximalist makeup trends will only contribute to the popularity of bold blush looks. Many believe that bold blush is here to stay for the time being, as women are enjoying experimenting with different makeup looks and expressing themselves through statement products like blush. Overall, the current obsession with bold blush is indicative of a larger shift in the beauty industry towards more creative and individualistic makeup trends.
