Let me take you back to 2011, when I first started as a makeup artist. Back then, blush was the bastard child of makeup – it was all about harsh contours and flat, matte complexions that had everyone serving Twilight realness. If you suggested applying blush to someone, you were immediately met with a death stare and asked whether you even knew what you were doing as a makeup artist. Fast forward to 2025, now blush is that girl in the makeup world. Let’s put it this way, if blush were a music artist, she would be Doechii.
Blush has made a major comeback! From trends like boyfriend blush, sunset blush, and bold pops of color, it’s no longer just a finishing touch – it’s the moment. Wearing has gone from optional to essential (although, I was ahead of my time because I’ve always loved it). As Alison Bringé of Launchmetrics pointed out, blush was the “hero product of 2024,” with mentions increasing by 8% in media value. That’s influencer gold, baby.
Although I’m thrilled to see blush have a more significant comeback than Bennifer 2.0, some of us have taken our love for blush to an extreme. You know what I’m talking about – “blush blindness”, where you can’t tell when enough is enough. I will hold your hand when I say this: if your blush is caked on up to your eyebrows, it might be time to put the brush down, sis. Blush is supposed to make you look fresh, glowy, and youthful – not like a creepy marionette doll.
The obsession isn’t slowing down, though. Beautyblender CEO Rea Ann Silva predicts higher blush placement under the eyes will dominate the year—think post-workout flush without the sweat. I call this the “Ran-a-Marathon-but-Make-It-Cute” look. Pair it with a juicy lip and soft lashes, and voilà: effortless beauty without breaking a sweat or, you know, actually running.
For Millennials and Gen Z, blush is about more than aesthetics. It’s a rebellion against the stark, overly contoured, Instagram-heavy makeup looks of the early 2010s. Blush feels fresh, young, and just all-around happy. It adds life to our faces, whether on a Zoom call, at brunch, or on a baecation.
Embracing this blush renaissance without looking like a lobster is all about balance. Focus on placement—higher on the cheekbones for a lifted effect, or even brushed across the nose for a playful, sun-kissed glow. And for those going bold with blush remember that the goal is flushed, not flustered.
The blush trend isn’t going anywhere in 2025 either. It’s had significant staying power in the beauty industry, proving that rosy cheeks are a timeless classic.
XOXO,
Your Beauty Bestie
Cover photo credit: Pinterest
