The application of blush can be considered a form of art in the style of realism. Too many times blush can look more like modern, abstract art with its streaks and sharp edges and way-too-vibrant colors.

Blush is meant to be just that - a glow on your cheeks, subtle color that makes you look healthy and fresh.

If you use gel or cream blush, the key is blending. Start at the center of the apples of your cheeks and blend outwards in widening circles. Keep in mind that the color must be lighter and more blended with each circle until it disappears at the very edge. You can use a translucent powder over it to set it and prevent it from “melting” into pores.

Powder blush is easily blended if you use a large, soft brush. If your powder blush came with a small, square, flat brush, throw it away and get a professional makeup brush. Again you should start at the apples of your cheeks and lightly brush over them with color.

The best blush color is one that looks natural. Bright pinks or pinks that are too dark will leave you with a “slapped cheek” look. For most of us pinky peaches or peachy tans are the most natural but not every skintone is alike so look for a color that is natural on you .

Finally, your blush should never compete or clash with your lipcolor. People should see your face as a total whole, and not in brightly painted pieces.

If you are using the brush that came with your blush, chances are you are using a brush that is too small, too stiff and unsuited to the task.

Blush is not meant to be a stripe of bright color on the sides of your face. Streaks of red, pink or brown that appear “painted on” end up looking clownish.

Choose a large, soft, fluffy brush to apply your cheek color. Don’t overload the brush. Sweep the brush across the blush product to load the bristles with color, then tap it to shake off any excess.

Start below the cheekbone ridge and brush lightly up to the “apples” of your cheeks. The color should give you a natural glow to your cheeks and there should be no discernible edges.

A great brush is the key to proper application of blush. Bare Escentuals Tapered Blush Brush is exactly the type of brush we recommend. It’s available at Amazon for $15.00 but if you shop local stores and beauty outlets, you might some great deals on brushes and brush sets. It’s not the name that makes you beautiful, it’s having the right tools, the right methods and the right products for you.

When creating the illusion of high cheekbones (see the how-to tips here) you’ll find that a great blush duo combining matte and shimmer shades will make it quick and easy.

Maybelline’s Expertwear blush duo has just what you need in one compact and comes in four shade duos: Twin Peach, Siamese Pink, Pair o’ Plums and Two to Glow.

At under $6 in most retail outlets, it fits your budget and is a great little spacesaver in the essentials-only make up bag.

Maybelline has introduced a new line of “air-whipped” make-up called Dream Mousse. The line includes foundation and bronzer as well as blush and eye shadow.

The formula is named Dream Mousse because of its smooth, whipped consistency. The product goes on smooth and blends seamlessly. The foundation comes in 12 shades to match most skin tones, while the bronzer comes in two shades, Sun Glow and Glistening Sun to give you a sun-kissed look that’s just right.

The eyeshadow is yummy in shades of sherbert and sophisticated in the natural tones. The blush is soft and subtle with colors like Peach Satin and Cloud Wine.

Average price for each item is between $6 and $8 at local drug and department stores.