All Makeup Skin Hair Nails How-To Beauty Amplified Spoilers IPSY 101 Ingredient Index

Embrace the Sun-Kissed Glow: The Sunburn Blush Trend Taking Over

Maddie Aberman DefaultMaddie Aberman Default
By
Published on May 28, 2024
 Mobile Desktop

In the ever-evolving world of beauty, staying ahead of the trends can feel like a full-time job (for some of us, it literally is!). This year, blush is having a major moment, and a new blush trend is making waves for its ability to deliver that coveted just-back-from-the-beach glow without exposing your skin to harmful UV rays. Enter the sunburn blush trend.

.

Default Middle Subscribe Module Image - MobileDefault Middle Subscribe Module Image - Desktop

It's about glam time you treated yourself.

Join IPSY

What Is the Sunburn Blush Trend

The sunburn blush trend mimics the natural flush that pops up on your cheeks and nose after a day in the sun. It’s a nod to that child-like, sunburned look, giving you a youthful and healthy appearance. Unlike traditional blush application, which focuses on the apples of the cheeks, sunburn blush extends across the nose and upper cheeks (sometimes even the forehead and chin), creating a seamless, sun-touched effect.

Instead of the cool-toned blush shades, like hot pink and berry, sunburn blush shades lean towards warm tones, like peach, coral, red, and bronze. The aim? To mimic that subtle redness you get from a day in the sun, minus the actual burn of course!

Why the Sunburn Blush Trend Is so Popular

1. Natural and Effortless Look

As the beauty world shifts towards embracing natural aesthetics, the sunburn blush trend stands out for its ability to enhance your features without looking overly made up. It’s perfect for everyday wear, offering an effortless glam.

2. Youthful and Radiant

This blush technique imparts a fresh, youthful glow. The strategic placement of blush on the nose and cheeks mimics a natural flush, making your skin look vibrant and healthy.

3. Versatile and Easy to Achieve

Whether you’re heading to a casual brunch with the crew or a full-glam night out with the girls, sunburn blush can be tailored to suit any occasion. Its simplicity and adaptability make it a favorite among makeup lovers.

4. Skin-Safe Beauty

By mimicking the effects of a sun-kissed complexion without harmful exposure to UV rays, the sunburn blush trend promotes a healthy approach to achieving a radiant look. This is especially important as awareness of sun damage and its long-term effects continues to grow.

How to Get the Perfect Sunburn Blush Look

  1. Prep Your Canvas: Start with a clean, moisturized face. Apply a lightweight foundation or BB cream to even out your skin tone.

  1. Choose Your Blush Shade: Look for cream or liquid blushes in warm hues. Think apricot, terracotta, or burnt sienna—anything that screams summer vibes. JUST XIMENA The 3-In-1 Stick in Que Cute will leave behind the perfect cherry red tint. 

  1. Apply Strategically: Use your fingers or a damp sponge to dab the blush onto the areas the sun would naturally hit you, like the tops of your cheeks and across the bridge of your nose. If you want to fully commit to the sunburn effect, dab a bit along the top of your forehead near your hairline and on the center of your chin. Don’t forget to blend! 

  1. Layer It On: Start with a light layer of blush and build up the intensity as needed. Remember, it's easier to add more than to take away.

  1. Glow Up: Finish off your look with a touch of highlighter. Sweep it across your cheekbones, brow bones, and down the bridge of your nose for that radiant finish.

Want in on all the IPSY fun? Take our Beauty Quiz now to get started with your own IPSY beauty subscription. Already an IPSY member? Refer your friends to earn points, which you can use toward products. Either way, don’t forget to check us out on Instagram and TikTok @IPSY.

Like this article? Share it with your friends by clicking the icons below!

Liked this post? Share!

Related Stories

An image of three tube concealers displayed side by side, showcasing different shadesAn image of three tube concealers displayed side by side, showcasing different shades

Makeup

Mature Skin? The 9 Best Concealers and How to Wear Them Flawlessly

Published on Aug 12, 2025 • 5 min read

The image shows blocks and pieces of glass featuring textured peach and coral brushstrokes of concealer, black backgrounds with peach circles, a blue piece with squiggly lines, and an abstract black and peach shape on a light blue backgroundThe image shows blocks and pieces of glass featuring textured peach and coral brushstrokes of concealer, black backgrounds with peach circles, a blue piece with squiggly lines, and an abstract black and peach shape on a light blue background

Makeup

BB Cream vs. CC Cream: What’s the Difference & Which One’s Right for You?

Published on Aug 6, 2025 • 6 min read

A woman wearing soft peach-toned eyeshadow and a sleek black outfit poses against a light curtain backdropA woman wearing soft peach-toned eyeshadow and a sleek black outfit poses against a light curtain backdrop

Makeup

We're in Our Eyeshadow Era—These 10 Looks Make It Easy

Published on Aug 5, 2025 • 6 min read

Black woman, afro and natural beauty lip gloss treatment for a healthy, shiny and transparent tint, Cosmetics, apply and beautiful face of African model holding makeup tool at orange backgroundBlack woman, afro and natural beauty lip gloss treatment for a healthy, shiny and transparent tint, Cosmetics, apply and beautiful face of African model holding makeup tool at orange background

Makeup

Lip Glosses, Oils, Stains, and Tints: Your Ultimate Lip Guide

Published on Jul 31, 2025 • 7 min read

An image of a smiling woman with her teeth visible and eyes slightly squinted, has medium-length, dark hair that appears slightly tousled while holding a highlighter and brush, wearing purple eyeshadow and bright red lipstick  An image of a smiling woman with her teeth visible and eyes slightly squinted, has medium-length, dark hair that appears slightly tousled while holding a highlighter and brush, wearing purple eyeshadow and bright red lipstick

Makeup

Where to Apply Highlighter for Every Face Shape, According to Experts

Published on Jul 28, 2025 • 7 min read

Makeup

The Best Lip Oils for Glossy, Hydrated Lips (Without the Stickiness)

Published on Jul 25, 2025 • 4 min read

An image of a woman with a big smile as she applies a lip product to her lipsAn image of a woman with a big smile as she applies a lip product to her lips

Makeup

What Is Lip Oil—and Why You’re About to Be Obsessed

Published on Jul 23, 2025 • 3 min read

Makeup

The 8 Best Mascaras, According to IPSY Members Who’ve Tried Everything

Published on Jul 17, 2025 • 5 min read

Default Bottom Subscribe Module Imagebottom_subscribe_module_image_desktop

Beauty Picked Just for You

Get 5 products worth up to $70

Plus exclusive access to epic deals up to 80% off

Starting at just $14/month. Cancel anytime.

Get Started