The beautifying effect of a pop of warm color on the cheeks is instant and unparalleled. Seriously. It can be blush, it can be bronzer, it can be gel, it can be powder. When you find the right formula and shade for you, it’s a game changer. Blush and bronzer both add dimension and warmth to the face, but they are two different things.

Blush is pink, coral or peachy colored and mimics the natural, pink-tinged flush to the cheeks that you get from a brisk walk or yoga session (or from chatting with your crush!). Bronzer is bronze-hued and makes the skin look sun-kissed and tawny, like you’ve spent a day or two relaxing on the beach.

There really are no rules about when or where to wear them. Blush is considered an everyday beauty product, part of your daily makeup routine. Bronzer is more seasonal, and can be used to warm up winter-pale complexions, or to enhance a summer glow. Use them together, use them individually. It’s really up to you!

Whether you’re using a powder blush like Fit Me Blush or a cream formula like Cheek Heat Gel Cream Blush, you always apply blush directly to the apples of the cheeks—that fleshy part of the cheek adults liked to squeeze when you were little. That’s where blood naturally rushes and turns pink when you exercise or are excited. Some people like to diffuse the color up and along the cheekbones too for extra dimension.

Apply bronzer anywhere you naturally catch the sun—cheeks, nose, forehead, jawline, and neck. Bronzer for the most part is easiest to use in a sheer powder formula like City Bronzer, since it goes all over the face. Dust it on with a full, fluffy brush for a natural-looking, seamless effect!