Marc Reagan, Director of Global Education, Artistry, and Events at Hourglass, recommends staying away from dull colors that don't have enough pigment saturation. To avoid that 'burnt flamingo' effect, step one means finding the right shade of blush. Thankfully, in the years since, my application skills have gotten better, and thanks to an increased demand for inclusive shades, Black women can finally find a multitude of options that are specifically catered to our melanin-rich skin. Needless to say, that is not the right technique, and I looked like a sunburnt flamingo.

I always take half the amount of product you usually would, and after application if it still looks like you need a bit more colour, you can subtly build it up, until you have the desired effect.My love affair with blush started on my first day of sixth grade when I snuck into my mom’s makeup bag and dusted her favorite Estée Lauder blush all over my face as if it were face powder. When applying it, it’s tempting to just pile it on with one application but this often ends in disaster.

'You want to aim for blush to look almost like you’re a bit flushed, so your ‘glow’ looks as natural as possible. 'If you have lots of lines around the eye area, choosing a powder blush can look cakey and accentuate these instantly aging you! So for older skin types I suggest a cream or gel formula which will leave a subtle hint of colour.' You apply too much For drier skin types cream formulas work much better as they leave a dewy fresh looking finish. 'If you have an oily complexion opt for powder formulas, as these will give a matte effect and absorb any excess oil. 'For a youthful glow opt for light liquid and cream blushers to add a touch of colour to your face, we’re always taught to place blush on the apples of our cheeks, but as we age these can drop, so for a more youthful effect try adding your blush a little higher up, nearer to your cheekbones for a 'lifted' effect.' You don’t pick the right formula for your skin type You don’t apply the blusher in the right place Medium skin tones will suit Benefit's GALifornia, £24.50, while darker skin tones will look lovely in MAC's Melba Blush, £19.50. For fair skin, try the NARS Blush in Orgasm, £23.

Mac melba blush on dark skin