Orange blush has been spotted on runways and in editorials for a couple seasons now, but you can rock this saturated trend in your own beauty look too. The good news? This blush colour works on all skin tones. We spoke to Plutino Group makeup artist Claudine Baltazar for tips on how to choose the right shade for your skin tone and how this warm hue can give your complexion a perfect sun-kissed radiance.

Fair and light skin tones

For pale or fair skin tones, it’s important to use a light hand and blend thoroughly when using an orange blush. “Try dipping your brush into the blush and shaking off excess,” says Baltazar. “Use a tap application to the areas of your cheek that you want to brighten up.” Fair skin tones should try soft oranges, muted corals and shimmery peaches instead of bright, saturated orange. “If peachy shimmer is worn during the day, it really lends some oomph to fair skin.” 

Sephora, Maybelline

High: Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush in Glisten is a buildable coral laced with gold shimmer. $34, sephora.ca. 

Low: Maybelline Face Studio Master Hi-Light in Coral is a warm blush with a balance of shade and shimmer illuminator for natural glow. $14, maybelline.ca.

Medium and olive skin tones

Medium, olive and tan skin tones can opt for bright coral or go for a bronze-peach hue for a more muted look. “On deeper skin tones, coral will read perfectly as a warm and rich pinch to your cheeks,” says Baltazar. “And a matte finish is perfect for everyday wear.” A peachy shade can warm up your complexion any time of the year to make you look naturally sun-kissed.

M.A.C Cosmetics, Revlon

High: MAC Cosmetics Blush in Coppertone is a matte bronzed coral that will give natural warmth to the complexion. $26, maccosmetics.ca.

Low: Revlon Cream Blush in Coral Reef is perfectly pigmented to provide a rich flush with a satin finish. $13, revlon.ca.

Dark skin tones

For skin tones that are dark, you want a deep reddish coral that’s pigmented enough to provide a healthy, luminous flush—but be careful not to overdo it. Baltazar suggests starting light and building colour, rather than piling it on, especially with a matte blush. “With matte, too much too soon reads more dramatic and harsh,” she says. If you don’t want to go matte, a great shimmer blush can brighten up the apples of the cheek for a warm radiant look.

Sephora, NYX Cosmetics

High: Nars Blushes in Liberte and Taj Mahal are highly pigmented with red undertones that look natural on darker skin tones. $38, sephora.ca.

Low: Nyx Ombre Blush in Feel the Heat is a two-toned blush that lets you adjust the amount of red you want in your orange. $13, nyxcosmetics.ca.