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Just when you thought you’d seen every makeup trend imaginable, TikTok drops another one that has everyone buzzing: under-eye blush. Yes, you heard that right. Blush isn’t just for your cheeks anymore—it’s now finding a home right beneath your eyes. And guess what? It’s the cutesy makeup trend that’s taking over fall 2024.
If you’re anything like me, your initial reaction to under-eye blush might be something along the lines of, “Blush… under my eyes? Won’t that make me look tired?” But trust me, after a little experimenting, I can confidently say that under-eye blush is the unexpectedly adorable and playful makeup look you’ll want to try this season. I’ve been wearing it non-stop, and it’s the easiest way to add a soft, youthful glow that feels perfect for the crisp, cozy vibe of fall.
But before we get into why this trend is worth trying, let’s break down how it works, why it’s blowing up, and the best tips for making it look cute (not like you just had a cry session).
What Is Under-Eye Blush?
Under-eye blush is exactly what it sounds like: applying blush right beneath your eyes, typically on the high points of your cheekbones and blending it up into the lower lash line area. While it might sound like a recipe for looking sleep-deprived, it’s actually all about creating a soft, doll-like appearance. Think of it as a way to give your face a pop of color that looks fresh and youthful, almost as if you’ve just come in from the chilly autumn air with naturally flushed cheeks.
The trend originally gained traction in Japan with a makeup look known as “Igari,” which is all about creating a dewy, flushed face. But thanks to TikTok, under-eye blush is getting a whole new wave of attention, with beauty influencers swearing by it for its ability to make your eyes pop and give you a sweet, almost ethereal glow.
Why It’s Perfect for Fall 2024
Fall is all about warm tones, cozy textures, and embracing natural beauty. The under-eye blush trend fits right in with the season, giving you a subtle, rosy glow that complements autumn’s earthy, neutral shades. Plus, it pairs perfectly with the season’s oversized sweaters, scarves, and all the pumpkin spice vibes. It’s a soft, easy way to look put together without going overboard, which is exactly what I’m aiming for in my fall makeup looks.
With the shift away from heavy contouring and sharp, bold makeup looks, under-eye blush brings a refreshing, more natural approach that still feels modern and fun. It’s cute but not in a childish way—it’s more like a playful nod to that soft, flushed look we naturally get on chilly fall days.
How to Apply Under-Eye Blush: Tips for Nailing the Trend
If you’re ready to dive into the under-eye blush trend, here’s a step-by-step guide to make sure you look fresh and glowing—not like you haven’t slept in days:
- Pick the Right Blush Shade
The key to pulling off under-eye blush is choosing a shade that complements your skin tone without being too intense. For fair to light skin tones, soft pinks and peach shades work beautifully. If you have medium to olive skin, warm coral or rose shades add just the right amount of warmth. For deeper skin tones, vibrant berry or plum shades can create a stunning contrast without washing you out. - Start Light, Build Gradually
When applying blush to such a delicate area like under your eyes, less is more—at least at first. Start with a small amount of product and gradually build it up to avoid looking overdone. Use a soft, fluffy brush to lightly sweep the blush onto the high points of your cheekbones, blending it upward toward your under-eye area. The goal is to diffuse the color so that it looks soft and natural. - Blend, Blend, Blend
Blending is everything when it comes to under-eye blush. You don’t want harsh lines or a concentrated patch of color. Instead, you want the blush to seamlessly transition from your cheekbones to your under-eye area. A fluffy brush or a damp beauty sponge can help create that soft-focus effect. - Balance with the Rest of Your Look
Since under-eye blush is the focal point of this trend, you’ll want to keep the rest of your makeup simple. A light layer of foundation or BB cream, a touch of highlighter on your cheekbones, and some clear gloss or a nude lip will let the blush take center stage without competing with other bold elements. - Add a Little Shimmer for Extra Pop
If you’re feeling extra playful, try adding a tiny bit of highlighter or shimmery blush right along your lower lash line or on the highest point of your cheeks. This adds a subtle glow that catches the light beautifully and enhances that doe-eyed effect. It’s perfect for a fresh, dewy look that still feels fall-appropriate.
Why You Should Try Under-Eye Blush
So, why should you hop on the under-eye blush train? First of all, it’s a fun and easy way to switch up your makeup routine without buying a whole new set of products. Chances are, you already have a blush or two in your collection, so it’s just a matter of experimenting with placement.
Another reason is that it’s super versatile. You can keep it soft and subtle for everyday wear, or amp it up for a more dramatic, editorial look. It’s also great for adding warmth to your face during those cooler fall months when our skin can sometimes look dull or pale.
Under-eye blush also works across a variety of face shapes and skin tones. Because it’s about adding a flush of color to a different area, it can help enhance your natural features without overwhelming them. Plus, it’s not as intimidating as it sounds! Once you get the hang of it, you’ll find it’s just as easy to apply as regular blush.
Final Thoughts: The Cutesy Trend I’m Wearing All Fall
At the end of the day, makeup is about having fun and expressing yourself, and under-eye blush is the perfect trend for doing just that. It’s playful, it’s pretty, and it’s surprisingly wearable. This fall, I’m all about embracing those rosy, flushed looks that bring a sense of warmth and freshness to my makeup routine—and under-eye blush is the ideal way to do just that.
So, if you’re looking for something new to try, grab your favorite blush and give this trend a go. Whether you’re heading to a pumpkin patch, a fall festival, or just out for a cozy coffee run, under-eye blush will add that extra touch of cuteness to your look.