Pinterest, Instagram, and TikTok All Concur: "Toasted Blush" Will Be a Major Makeup Trend This Winter

      During the summer, "sunburn blush" was a major trend on social media, characterized by simulating the appearance of sun-kissed skin without actual sun exposure. This technique involved applying blush (often in a cream formula) horizontally across the face, ranging from the apples of the cheeks to the bridge of the nose. Utilizing shades like Victoria's Secret-inspired red blush, Hailey Bieber-approved berry blush, or spicy orange blush effectively created that natural flush typical of a day spent outdoors.

      Now that we are deep into autumn and winter is looming, "sunburn blush" is becoming less relevant. Instead, we have "toasted blush," a new trend emerging in its place. (This is a micro-trend within the larger toasted makeup movement that's currently trending on my Instagram and TikTok feeds. "Toasted nails" are also gaining popularity!) Here’s a closer look at this significant fall makeup trend.

      Hailey Bieber adopted "sunburn blush" as her signature makeup style throughout the summer.

      In this image, Emily Ratajkowski showcases the "toasted blush" look, created by celebrity makeup artist Hung Vanngo. Can you spot the difference? Toasted blush uses the same application style as the sunburn-inspired technique but replaces summery hues with warm, cozy, and earthy tones—think soft clay shades and terracotta colors. While it's tempting to view toasted blush as merely a different color iteration of sunburn blush, it has a distinctive quality. Unlike sunburn blush, which exudes a youthful vibe, toasted blush is meant to give a more sultry, lived-in appearance, as if the blush has beautifully melded into the skin. "This trend is centered around tonal consistency (deep browns, burnt oranges, rusty reds) to evoke an enticing sense of warmth across the complexion," noted celebrity makeup artist Andrew Denton in a previous interview with Who What Wear.

      To achieve the look, opt for a warm-toned blush and don’t fret about precision in your application. The goal is to create a sultry, casual effect, so blending and smudging the blush with your fingers or a sponge is not only acceptable but recommended. Bonus points if you pair it with a warm-toned neutral lip color and soft, sultry eye makeup, inspired by Ratajkowski's look.

      Here are my top picks for toasty blushes:

      - **Rhode**: Pocket Blush in Toasted Teddy - This blush is an obvious choice.

      

      - **Glossier**: Cloud Paint Plush Blush Plume in Storm - Don’t be put off by this dark shade; it gives a natural-looking flush.

      

      - **Patrick Ta**: Major Headlines Double-Take Crème & Powder Blush Duo in She Goes to the Gym - This duo features both cream and powder formulas, making it a favorite of mine.

      

      - **Milani**: Cheek Kiss Cream Blush in Nude Kiss - This cream blush is quite underrated, in my opinion.

      

      - **Sephora**: Dew Blush Liquid Cream Blush in Spicy - I’m a fan of Saie's Dew Blush, and the shade Spicy is perfect for the season.

      

      - **TOWER 28**: Getset™ Blur + Set Matte Powder Blush in Samo Spritzer - This blush has a beautiful semi-matte finish.

      

      - **Sephora**: Blush Butter Balm Hydrating Cream Blush in Toasted Terracotta - Summer Fridays' Blush Butter Balm will definitely create that lovely melty, toasty effect.