Get that post-workout glow with the 'boyfriend blush' trend

Blush placements have been all the rage on TikTok over the past year, but recently, it’s no longer just about looking snatched – it’s about looking youthful and fresh. While you might think this is another trend that will either be a hit or miss depending on your face shape, well, we’ve got good news for you. It looks like this new blush technique works for everyone.

What is the ‘boyfriend blush’ trend?

No, don’t let the name fool you – you don’t have to be in a relationship to rock the look. According to TikTok creator Mallory Osses, she shares that the trend has actually been around for a long time (perhaps even going back a decade) and the look has been seen on several high fashion runway shows. However, thanks to TikTok, it’s experiencing a major resurgence, with the hashtag #BoyfriendBlush garnering about 80 million views and 90 million posts under it.

Think of that healthy flush you get after a hot girl walk or a Pilates session – that’s the essence of the ‘boyfriend blush’. Its aim is to give you a fresh and healthy glow, and subtly sculpt your face as well.

Celebrities sporting the look

The ‘boyfriend blush’ isn’t just for TikTok users. Celebrities have been spotted sporting this rosy hue, showcasing its versatility and flattering effect.

Sabrina Carpenter

Tyla

Devon Aoki

Gigi Hadid

How to achieve the look

The key to the ‘boyfriend blush’ lies in its placement of your blush. The triangular blush placement technique applies blush in a triangular pattern, accentuating the lower cheekbones, tapering towards the nose, and extending under the eyes for a youthful, radiant glow. The blush is then blended downwards towards the jawline. Doing so helps you to emphasise the apples of the cheeks and provides you with that youthful appearance. 

For an even more natural look, we recommend choosing a blush shade which mimics the natural flush of your cheeks. While both powder and cream blushes can achieve the desired sporty, rosy effect, cream blushes tend to blend more effortlessly. For instance, you can try doing it with Rare Beauty's coveted Stay Vulnerable Melting Blush or the iconic Major Headlines Double-Take Creme & Powder Blush from Patrick Ta.

The enduring appeal of the ‘boyfriend blush’ trend, characterized by its emphasis on natural and effortless beauty, suggests that it isn't just a passing fad. Not only is it versatile, but it also enhances one's features while maintaining a subtle and understated allure, making it a timeless choice that we will find ourselves returning to time and time again.