The viral Painted by Esther blush technique

If you’ve spent any time on TikTok or Instagram this year, chances are you’ve come across the Painted by Esther blush technique. The look — soft, lifted, and effortlessly diffused — has become the signature of makeup artist Ngozi Edeme, better known as Painted by Esther, whose blush method has garnered millions of views and countless recreations. What makes it stand out is the combination of saturated pigment and strategic placement.

At its core, the technique is centred around lift and intentional blending. Rather than placing blush on the apples of the cheeks, her method shifts blush higher — sweeping it along the upper cheekbones, up toward the temples, and softly beneath the eyes for a sculpted, sun-kissed effect.

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Ngozi Edeme aka Painted by Esther, Image: Instagram/@paintedbyesther

Recreating the look is surprisingly simple. Begin with a cream blush (the key to that melted-into-the-skin finish). Using a dense brush or your fingers, apply it just above the highest point of your cheekbone, then diffuse it outward and upward. Keep the colour high to maintain the lifting effect, avoiding the centre of the face. For added dimension, Esther often adds a bit of of blush across the bridge of the nose or sets the cream with a powder blush to deepen the pigment.

Skin prep is essential too — hydrated, dewy skin ensures creams blend seamlessly without patchiness. Opt for a lightweight foundation or tinted moisturiser to keep the base fresh and natural. To elevate the look even further, subtle highlight delivers a soft glow that complements the overall look.

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With a client list that includes Viola Davis, Tyla, Olandria, Naomi Campbell, Kelly Rowland, Anok Yai, and more, it’s clear that Painted by Esther has solidified herself as a go-to beauty pro. Her influence extends beyond just the viral blush — her “otherworldly” makeup aesthetic is glamorous enough for evening looks, subtle enough for everyday wear, and universally flattering across a range of skin tones.

What sets Painted by Esther apart is her playful, fearless approach to makeup — she never plays it safe. Here are some of our favourite Painted by Esther looks.