If you’d have asked me this time last year what my desert-island makeup product would be, blusher wouldn’t have even made the top 10. In fact, I think I probably only had one blusher in my otherwise excessive makeup stash. You see, I have always championed a streamlined, simple routine. As far as I was concerned, all I needed for my daily routine was a hefty layer of concealer, some bronzer and maybe a quick coat of mascara on my lashes. Anything else was just added faff that I couldn’t be bothered with.
But then, a cream blusher came my way, and everything changed. I realised that the thing that stressed me out about blusher the most was the application process. With powder formulas, it’s all too easy to make mistakes, from applying too much to getting it in the wrong place. However, cream blushers are basically foolproof. Not only can they be patted into the skin with fingers really quickly, but they also can be blended out super easily.
On top of that, they essentially melt into the skin, leaving a dewy, glowy finish. I have become such a fan of cream blushers that they’re basically the only makeup product I’m using at the moment. In fact, I can’t imagine leaving the house without at least a little dab of dewy colour on my cheeks. Bronzer, highlight and even (dare I say it) concealer have taken a back seat. All my face needs to look alive and well is a little bit of cream blusher.
And my newfound love for cream blusher means I’ve been trying every product I can get my hands on. From liquid formulas in tubes to putty-like textures, I’ve given them all a whirl. These are the best cream blushers money can buy.
Definitely on the pricier end of the spectrum but also my most-cherished makeup item, this stick blusher is without a doubt the best I have ever tried. It melts into skin like skincare and can be built up if you want a punchier look.
When Tower 28 launched in the UK, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this, and it did not disappoint. It’s got a thicker balm texture than most others around, which gives skin the most delicious dewiness. Plus, it’s impressively pigmented. It’s tens all round for this one.
Another glowy option, this stuff is much more purse-friendly than some of the others on this list. Results are natural-looking and dewy, giving the cheeks a subtle but pretty wash of colour.
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The first time I stuck my finger in a pot of Wondertint, I was dubious. Unlike the cream blushers I know and love, this stuff has a mousse texture and a matte finish. I didn’t think I’d love it, but it’s now one of my most-used products. The matte finish gives skin a wind-kissed, air-brushed look that I can’t get enough of.
Not a summer’s day has gone by that hasn’t involved me dabbing a bit of this slightly iridescent blusher on my face. It can be used alone as a glow-boosting blusher or dotted onto the high points of the face for a bit of extra highlight.
Something about this pot of joy just makes the act of putting makeup on a total treat. The formula feels luxe and lightweight, like you’re giving your skin a special treat. Plus, this peachy tone is the perfect way to liven up a dull complexion.
I don’t instantly think of Charlotte Tilbury when I’m talking blusher, but this glowy cream is truly exquisite. For days when you can’t be bothered to apply any makeup at all, a dab of this onto the apples of the cheeks and over the lips is enough to make you feel together.
If you haven’t tried Glossier Cloud Paint before, be warned that it is super pigmented. You need hardly any of the stuff. The super-bright shade Dawn might look a little scary at first, but layering up just the tiniest amount onto the tops of the cheekbones is the perfect way to amp up your makeup look.
Price shown is members’ price. When I first tried this wonderful product last year, I told everyone I know to go out and buy a pot. In fact, I think I’ve converted pretty much everybody I know. It’s glossy and silky enough for a totally foolproof application but stays put all day.
I am yet to find a product like this. It embodies everything I love about no-makeup makeup. Sitting somewhere between a tint and a cream, it delivers a healthy shot of plumping hydration while leaving the subtlest of flushes.
Fenty’s Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Blush is widely regarded as one of the best in the business. It’s super-creamy, making it incredibly easy to work into skin and just do what you want it to.
For those who hate powder blushes because they’re so fiddly to apply, here’s one for you. It starts off as a cream, which makes application a breeze but gives a blurring, power-like finish on the skin.
Like summer in a stick, this oily balm can be scribbled onto lips and cheeks for a super-subtle tint that can be blended out quickly with your fingers. Next up, five products we should all be using this summer, according to skin experts.
