Question 1

Hibiscus Flower Powder

Accepted Answer

Berry/wine-colored pigment.

Question 2

Beetroot Powder

Accepted Answer

Brighter pink/berry pigment.

Question 3

Arrowroot Powder

Accepted Answer

Dilutes/softens the stronger pigments and helps create lighter shades.

Question 4

Cacao Powder

Accepted Answer

Adds warmth, brown tones and depth.

Question 5

Can I adjust the color of my homemade blush?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Think of the three recipes as tried-and-true starting points rather than colors you're locked into.

Arrowroot powder will soften and lighten the stronger botanical pigments, while small additions of hibiscus, beetroot, or cacao can shift the depth and tone. Make adjustments a little at a time... you can always add more pigment, but it's much harder to take it back out.

I'd keep a quick note of any changes you make so you can recreate your perfect shade later.

Question 6

Why isn't my blush sticking to my skin?

Accepted Answer

First, check your powders.

Hibiscus and beetroot can vary quite a bit in texture, and a coarse powder won't behave like the finely ground botanical powders I use for these recipes. If you can see or feel noticeable pieces, grind the powder more finely and sift it before trying again.

Your skin prep can make a difference, too. I've found these loose botanical blushes tend to adhere a little better over moisturizer, foundation, or another base product, but you don't need to apply oil specifically to make them work.

Question 7

Why does my blush look different from yours?

Accepted Answer

Botanical ingredients aren't standardized color pigments, so some natural variation is expected. One batch of hibiscus or beetroot powder may be lighter, darker, warmer, or cooler than another.

That's why I recommend treating these recipes as a starting point. Adjust the finished color until it works for you.

Question 8

Can I use regular dried hibiscus flowers or beets?

Accepted Answer

I wouldn't simply crush dried flowers or dried beets and expect the same result.

For these recipes, you want very finely ground powders. The smooth texture matters both for blending the recipe and for how it feels and applies to your skin.

If the powder you purchase is still somewhat coarse, grind it further and pass it through a fine-mesh sieve before using it.

Question 9

Can I use cornstarch instead of arrowroot powder?

Accepted Answer

I formulated and repeatedly made these recipes with arrowroot powder, so that's what I recommend. If you substitute another starch, expect the texture, color, and application of the finished blush to change.

Question 10

Do I need to add Vitamin E oil?

Accepted Answer

Nope.

Earlier versions of this recipe suggested adding a few drops of Vitamin E for staying power, but after making these blushes many times, I don't find it necessary.

I prefer keeping this formula completely dry. It keeps the recipe simpler and makes storage easier.

Question 11

Can I make this blush darker or more pigmented?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but go slowly.

Start with the recipe as written and test it on your skin. If you'd like more color, add your chosen botanical powder in very small amounts, mixing thoroughly and testing between additions.

Remember that what looks relatively subtle in the container can become considerably more noticeable once it's on your cheeks. HELLO, CHEEKS still applies.

Question 12

Is homemade botanical blush the same as commercial blush?

Accepted Answer

No... and I think that's worth saying plainly.

These are simple DIY loose powder blushes made with botanical ingredients. They aren't formulated with the same standardized pigments, binders, texture enhancers, or other ingredients found in many commercial makeup products.

That means the color, texture, wear time, and application can vary. That's not necessarily good or bad; it's simply part of making your own.

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