How to Use Lipstick as Blush for a Seamless Flush of Color

One color, cohesive glow.

I’ve been using lipstick as a blush. I first tried it when I didn’t have my blush on me so I used my red lipstick to color up my cheeks. But I loved the end result so much that I realized that this method is actually much better than applying regular blush! I’m not exaggerating!

This takes less time, so it’s time-saving. It’s incredibly beginner-friendly, so even if you’re new to makeup, you will be able to do this! And it’s a versatile technique that goes well with any makeup look. If you’re wondering how to achieve the most flattering, seamlessly blended look by using lipstick as blush, keep reading for a step-by-step tutorial.

How to Use Lipstick as Blush

Step 1: Choose the Right Lipstick

First things first: choosing the lipstick! You can use any type of lipstick for this including matte, satin, glossy, soft, or bold.

In terms of color, you don’t need to go out of your way but of course, reds, burgundy shades, and berry colors, even purple colors will look amazing as blush.

Any lipstick you have at your disposal that looks good on your lips will look good on your cheeks. Even if there are products you no longer use, give those lipsticks another try by utilizing them as blush.

On the flip side, you already know that you can use cheek tints as blush. But avoid using lip stains for this method as they dry fast and are very difficult to blend on your cheeks.

Step 2: Finish Your Base Makeup

Before applying your lipstick as blush, make sure you do your base makeup first. This creates a smooth makeup base and ensures a seamless application.

That way, you can effortlessly apply your lipstick blush and achieve a consistent, streak-free look. So start with clean, well-moisturized skin.

Apply an even layer of foundation or if you’re going for an everyday look, apply tinted moisturizer for lighter, natural-looking coverage.

Step 3: Apply the Lipstick on Your Cheeks

You might be intimidated by the idea of applying cream lipstick directly onto your cheeks. But trust me with this. We’re going to tone down the color considerably.

So just do a single swipe on the high point of your cheek where you’d normally apply your blush. The heat from your skin will warm up the lipstick for easy blending. I prefer applying it on my cheeks and a little bit on the center of my nose.

Step 4: Apply a Small Amount of Concealer

This is where the magic happens and this is what makes applying lipstick as blush so flattering for the skin. It’s like creating your own DIY cream blush. Apply a very small amount of concealer right over where you apply the lipstick as shown above.

We’re going to mix the two to achieve the most natural-looking flush of color. You can put a dot of concealer or a swipe of concealer depending on your preference.

But don’t worry because we’re going to have a chance to change this if you end up with too much of the concealer or the blush.

You can use a radiant finish or matte finish concealer. If you want to fake a cream blush, go for a radiant finish concealer to make the skin glow.

Step 5: Start Blending

Use a damp beauty blender and use the bigger side of it to gently blend things onto the skin. You don’t need to wipe the product or try to mix them.

Simply pat the sponge onto the skin. This allows the lipstick and the concealer to mix in. As you’ll see, you don’t even need too much dabbing until you see this beautifully blended color on your cheeks.

Depending on your preference, bring the color toward the upper part of the face and around the temples and play with different placements however you like.

On a side note, I prefer doing this with a sponge but you can also use a brush like a stippling brush to apply your lipstick as blush. But remember to use a gentle hand as you might end up moving your foundation during blending.

Step 6: Build the Color

Usually, I’m happy with the rosy glow I achieve after applying two layers. If you want to build the color for something bolder, repeat the same steps. For summertime, I love creating the sunburn blush look by intensifying the color.

Apply the lipstick and the concealer and blend again until you’re happy with the look. Blend the edges of the blush until there are no visible harsh lines.

Step 7: Fix Any Mistakes

The best part about this technique is that you can fix any mistakes simply by applying a dot of concealer. When you end up applying more powder blush than you intend to, it’s not easy to correct it.

But with this method, you can even do a complete do-over without ruining the rest of your makeup. Use the same lipstick on your lips for a monochromatic look. And you’re done!

For the look below, I’ve used Sephora Collection Satin Hydrating Lipstick in the shade 20 Never Enough. I applied the Tarte Shape Tape Radiant Concealer in the shade 22N. I did the blending using my Beautyblender.

So this is how to apply your lipstick as blush. Again, it’s quick, easy, beginner-friendly, and practically gives you a chance to declutter your makeup bag! So try using your favorite lipsticks this way.

I love the results so much that this is the first time I’m able to achieve such a blended, flawless, blurred-out look with just a few dabs. This is something I can’t even achieve with an actual cream blush.

On a side note, keep an eye on your skin for the next couple of days after trying this method, especially if you have acne-prone skin. Some lipsticks can contain oils that might clog pores and cause breakouts.