Nothing transforms your complexion quite like blush. This one product adds life and luster to dull skin, and instantly makes you look more pulled together and awake. But how you wear blush and the shades and finishes you choose are important. Here are the three blush hacks you need to add to your beauty repertoire to effortlessly transform your complexion.

1. The best blush placements for a rosy, healthy flush

How and where you apply your blush can make or break your entire makeup look. The traditional application method is to apply to the apples of your cheeks with a blush brush and blend outwards. However, bareMinerals makeup artists prefer a slightly more strategic application.

Using a fluffy blush brush, apply GEN NUDE Blonzer in a broad ‘W’ shape to create a natural-looking sun-kissed finish across the high points of your face. Start at the outer bridge of your nose and sweep the color downwards to the apple of your cheek, and then upwards and outwards towards your temple. Repeat on the other side and then blend the color over the bridge of your nose. Blend out and if you find the color is more intense than you like, buff some of the color out of the brush onto the back of your hand before going back in and blending some more.

2. How to apply blush and highlighter

Great makeup needn’t be complicated. Simultaneously dial up luminosity and add some warmth to your skin with GEN NUDE Highlighting Blush, a two-in-one highlighter/blush hybrid that instantly enlivens skin. This weightless formula contains finely milled pearls and silky blurring microspheres that deposit pigment, add glow, and smooth the appearance of textured skin. Use a ‘C’ technique to apply by blending the color in a sweeping motion from your temples, down your cheekbones, and onto the apples of your cheeks. The Blooming Blush Brush is an excellent helper, as the synthetic fibers effortlessly deposit pigment and blend.

3. Match your blush to your undertone

Just as you pick a lipstick in a shade to complement your skin tone, you should think about your natural coloring when choosing your blush. If you have a warm undertone, try a blush with a peachy, coral, or terracotta base like GEN NUDE Powder Blush in the shades Peachy Keen or But First Coffee. If your skin has a cool undertone, opt for shades with a pink or blue undertone, such as Pretty in Pink or Strike A Rose.