The Ombré Blush Technique Is Already The Best Beauty Hack Of 2022

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With our ears firmly pressed to the ground of the beauty world, there's not a lot that slips under our radars. And yet, one of the best makeup hacks we've come across in a long time has seemingly evaded us for too long. Not only does it instantly add shape and lift to the face, but it doesn't even require any skill, experience, pricey products or special tools — a win in our lazy books.

Introducing: ombré blush, the best beauty discovery since purple blush began flooding our feeds.

First brought to our attention by makeup artist Danielle Marcan (@daniellemarcan), the method only requires two shades of a cream or liquid blush — most have been opting for a purple and pink shade. From there you can apply the purple (or darker pink) shade at the top of your cheekbones and the lighter shade on the apples of your cheeks. Blend out with fingers or a sponge and you're left with a subtle but flattering contour.

To add more depth, switch the shades around like makeup artist Leila Nikea (@leilanikea) and blend them into each other for a multi-dimensional tone that adds incredible dimension. Or, take cues from the 00's-style ombré lips and nail trends before it and go for a starker contrast like TikToker Bex Campbell (@bexcxmpbell).

Or you can try out orange and pink combinations for sunset cheeks like Jazzi Manalo Sullivan (@jazlmao).

Throughout 2021, a year spent mostly indoors devoid of Vitamin D, blush was one of the few products we were still reaching for throughout lockdowns. With its unparalleled ability to restore life to our complexions, we're pretty thrilled to be onto this new approach, courtesy of TikTok of course. And one of the main reasons we love it is that it's very amateur-friendly, with only three real tricks to nailing this look.

First, try to use products with the same consistency. Not only will this make blending easier, but you're more likely to achieve a seamless finish this way.

Second, while there's plenty of room to experiment with different shades, there is such a thing as too stark of a contrast. If the result is looking a bit harsh, lightly dab any leftover foundation or concealer over your cheeks with a damp sponge.

Last, for a lifted appearance, it's important to apply the gradient diagonally along your cheekbones, blending up towards your temples.

If this is just a taste of what 2022 has to offer us in the beauty sphere, we look forward to what's to come. Below, our picks of the creamiest blush money can buy.