How to make bright blush work for pale skin

Clockwise: Topshop Head over Heels | MAC Dainty (review here) | NARS Gilda

When it comes to summer I want to start wearing brighter blush but I always fear that because I'm pale, the stark contrast between the colour on my cheeks and my skin would mean I'd end up looking like a clown or worse. Here are just a few of my tried and tested tips that I swear by to achieve that lightly flushed look when working with a brightly coloured blush.

1.Use a stippling brush to apply your blush (pictured is the Real Techniques Stippling Brush). Stippling brushes lend themselves to a lighter application, allowing you to build intensity of colour.

2. Apply blush before powder. By applying powder afterwards, you have the opportunity to 'tone-down' the blush and using a bigger powder brush helps to disperse the colour more.

3. Use a sheerer formula. I think that bright cream blushes are easier to work with as I'm able to dot the product onto my cheeks and then blend it out which results in a subtle hint of colour.

4. Spray your brush with toner/water before use. I think this should be attempted with a light hand as applying blush with a brush that's too damp can lead to a patchy application. However if you lightly spray your brush before use it gives a sheerer application.

Do you have any tips and tricks on how to achieve a sheerer more natural flush with bright blush?