Skipping The Filters For A 'Baby' Fresh Glow: A 14 Year Old's Guide To Blush
Written by Lexie Stone
The Beauty Ed®’s Note: When I launched The Beauty Ed®, my mission was simple: to clear away the white noise of the beauty industry and champion real, unfiltered skin and beauty for women of all ages. Over my 28 years as a beauty editor, I have introduced no-retouch policies at major publications, fought against the pressure of the perfect social media filter, and consistently advocated for the joy of looking like yourself. That is why I am incredibly proud to introduce this article by Lexie Stone, a rising sophomore, competitive gymnast, and a star in THE LAB mentoring program. In a world where social media algorithms often push multi-step makeup on teenagers, Lexie’s fresh take on the viral “glass skin” trend is a breath of fresh air. At just 14, she already possesses the journalistic maturity to remind her peers that their real skin is a unique strength and that makeup should make you feel confident. Amazing work Lexie ✨
A Teen Guide To Liquid, Powder, and Cream Blush
Walking into makeup stores, there are liquid, powder, and cream blusher options for every shade, but I never know which one I should get. As a fourteen-year-old girl, I want my makeup to glow and stay for a long period of time, but figuring out which products and what type is a constant struggle.
Is The Glass Skin Trend Actually Good for Teen Skin?
The glass skin effect quickly exploded on social media, and it is the trending term for mixing skincare and makeup together to create a long-lasting and glowy face. Glass skin gives a natural look rather than heavy coverage and is an easy way to enhance your natural beauty.
However, I am aware that glass skin is heavily advertised by influencers and can create unrealistic standards for teens or anyone who desires glass skin. Plus, a multi-step skincare routine is not always beneficial for every skin type.
It’s important to remember that your real skin is unique: embracing yourself and your skin is an amazing strength to have.
To help me figure out which blush to choose, I’ve broken down each category to research their benefits…
What Is Liquid Blush Best For? (And How To Apply It)
Best for: Dry skin, and anyone wanting to achieve a dewy fresh look.
Liquid blush is often blended with sponges or by lightly pressing it onto your skin with your fingertips. It absorbs quickly and helps to keep skin looking silky and hydrated.
Liquid blush generally fades faster, but a little goes a long way: one or two small dots are enough. Personally, I wear liquid blush to school for a glowy, natural look, but I also wear it out to events with my friends. Depending on my mood and occasion, I will apply more for a bold style.
Lexie’s Pick: My favorite brand of liquid blush would have to be the viral Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush. It has strong color pigment so you only need to use small amounts. It also blends smoothly and I love that it’s vegan, cruelty free, and paraben free. Plus, the blush is dermatologist tested so it is suitable for all skin types.
When Should You Choose Powder Blush?
Best for: Oily or combination skin, and if you prefer a classic, matte look.
Powder absorbs oils and provides a matte finish which can sometimes appear heavy. But if you apply it lightly, it can give your cheeks an airbrushed finish.
Lexie’s Powder Blush Tips:
I always tap my brush before applying it to my face to remove excess powder and avoid patchy spots.
Make sure to blend powder fully to make sure there is no chalky finish.
Powdered blush can also be used as eyeshadow and even as a lip tint by taking a small amount and brushing it on your lips. This creates a personalized look.
Lexie’s Pick: One of the most popular powders I see on social media is E.l.f.’s Powder Blush Palette. It comes with four different shades - you can use each shade individually or mix them together to get a more personal color.
Why Cream Blush Is Perfect For Beginners
Best for: All skin types, beginners and anyone who loves a quick, natural look.
Cream blush is hydrating and lightweight - similar to liquid textures and gives skin a dewy, natural finish. Cream blush is built for all skin types and it is easy to blend with sponges or brushes, and can also be applied with your finger.
Often, cream blush is more subtle than liquid or powder blush, and as it often comes in stick form it can easily be swiped and blended onto your skin.
Lexie’s Pick: One of my go to’s each morning is the Makeup By Mario’s Soft Pop Blush Stick. It adds a healthy flush of color to my cheeks, blends really easily and feels comfortable on my skin.
Liquid vs. Powder vs. Cream Blush: How To Find Your Match
Every type of makeup has positives and negatives, and trial and error is a part of everyday life, including your makeup. It’s up to you which option you feel most confident in. Remember: your makeup routine should reflect your personal style, not the unrealistic standards on the internet.
Lexie Stone is a freshman, competitive gymnast, and THE LAB mentee, focusing on feeling confident through your skin. You’ll find Laneige, Refy, Rare Beauty, and Makeup By Mario in her beauty supply.
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