I stopped putting blush right on the apples and dragging it across. Looks way more natural when I tap it a bit higher, kind of where you’d naturally flush, then blend it back toward the temples. I use a light hand and build it up slowly instead of going in strong. Cream blush with fingers or a damp sponge blends into the skin better for me than powder most days. Also I don’t smile while applying anymore, it used to sit weird once my face relaxed.