With the Guava Girl aesthetic and Cherry Blossom cheeks dominating this summer’s beauty trends, it’s only fitting that blush is the product of the moment. There really is no better way to add a vibrant, healthy glow.

“We’re all looking to look our best, and blush instantly achieves that,” agrees says makeup artist Yael Maquieira. “It brings freshness, brightness, and a radiance that instantly transforms the face.” But the best way to use blush this summer isn’t just to swipe on some flat powder and be done. Instead, Maquieira recommends using a “blush combo that plays with tones and textures” and stays put even in sweltering heat.

What is a blush combo?

It may seem like a new concept, but the “blush combo” is a technique that professionals have actually been using for years. “It consists of first applying a cream blush and then a powder blush to set the color,” explains Maquieira.

Not only does a blush combo provide dimension, but it also keeps your color looking fresher longer. “Cream blush adds juiciness and a radiant effect—but it doesn’t always last as long as we’d like,” Maquieira says. “Powder sets and prolongs the color, allowing the effect to last longer and feel fresher, more natural, and flattering.

How to apply a blush combo

A long-lasting blush combo is easy to apply, just be sure to keep the following in mind: “Blend each layer well and apply a small amount at a time, building the color little by little,” says Maquieira. Below, the expert provides more tips for getting it right:

• Moisturize the skin well. “Without good hydration, the product does not blend well and will not last,” Maquieira says.
• Apply cream blush first. “I usually apply it by picking up a little with my finger, then tapping it onto the back of my hand. From there, I dab it on with a brush, so as not to drag the foundation,” Maquieira says.
• Seal with powder blush. “Use one side of a brush to apply, then blend with the other, clean side to avoid applying too much,” Maquieira advises. “It allows you to better control the amount and the finish—and it’s also more natural.”

Which blush colors look best together?

There’s no limit to the hues you can combine, from pinkish to peachy to beige or brown. “I love to combine different shades, one in cream and one in powder that match well,” says Maquieira. “I always recommend playing with color depending on the day or the look. This way, you get a look that’s more personalized and vibrant.”