Getting that healthy, ethereal glow with just the right amount of color is not as easy as it might seem. If your skin is on the dry side, chances are you’re not a big fan of powder blushes, especially in the winter when cheeks need a little more TLC. Cream blush, a good one, works on all complexions and melts into skin for a natural-looking flush, unlike powder, which sits on top of skin.
How to apply cream blush
One of the best parts about cream blush is that you use your fingers to apply the product. Although you can use a brush, the warmth of your fingers loosens the product and disperses the pigment onto cheeks, making it easier to control the placement for a seamless, natural-looking flush. Always start with a really small amount so you can build up to the desired intensity.
Cream blush isn’t just for cheeks
The best cream blushes on the market are multitaskers, which makes them suitable for eyes, lips and cheeks. Yep, wearing the monochromatic makeup trend just got a whole lot easier. Not to mention all that space you just saved in your makeup bag.
Choosing the best cream blush for you
There are many cream blush formulas out there, from cream-gel and cream-to-powder to cheek stains and the traditional solid. The right formula depends on your skin type. If you have dry skin, you’ll want to avoid a cheek stain and opt for a hydrating cream blush instead. If your skin is oily, a cream-to-powder blush might be your best bet. The fun part is testing them out (here’s a great excuse to restock your makeup bag) to find the one that works for you.
To get you started, we’ve selected nine of the best cream blushes that reviewers love. Click through the slideshow above to find your newest Holy Grail product.
9 must-have cream blushes
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9 must-have cream blushes #1
Creamy, easy to apply and true multitaskers, these nine blushes received rave reviews from users.
Image: Imaxtree
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Kjaer Weis
Cream Blush, $56 at Credo
This blush boasts a buildable formula so you can control how rosy your cheeks get. It’s moisturizing so you don’t have to worry about it drying out your complexion. The shade range is pretty stellar, too.
Reviewers loved the long-lasting formula: "Goes on smooth and lasts for hours!"
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Fenty Beauty
Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Blush, $20 at Sephora
Rihanna's nongreasy cream blush comes in 10 sheer shades so everyone can add a wash of color to their cheeks. It’s sweat- and water-resistant and almost impossible to overdo.
Reviewers were definitely impressed. "The blush starts out subtle but is very buildable and I love the shine…"
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Glossier
Cloud Paint, $18 at Glossier
Glossier’s gel-cream blush is super easy to use. Just dab on your cheeks and tap into your skin. Its six shades are inspired by New York City sunsets so you know you’ll get a natural-looking flush.
Reviewers didn’t hold back calling it "The BEST blush ever."
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Shiseido
Minimalist Whipped Powder Blush, $29 at Nordstrom
A mousse-like texture makes this blush easy to apply. The featherweight formula provides a soft, matte finish and lasts a full eight hours. The seven shades are almost as pretty in the containers as they are on your face.
"It’s very buildable and has a natural texture on the skin and a gold sheen when the light hits it. Stays on all day and doesn’t remove my makeup when applied," raved one reviewer.
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Bobbi Brown
Pot Rouge for Lips & Cheeks, $34 at Nordstrom
The cream formula of this blush makes it perfect for applying both on lips and cheeks. It leaves you with a sheer, natural-looking finish, which will have people wondering whether that's just you, naturally flawless.
Reviewers praised the "smooth and creamy" formula that doesn't "dry out skin the way powder does." Only a small amount is needed so the product "will last a long time."
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Clinique
Chubby Stick Cheek Colour Balm, $26 at Sephora
This gel is oil-free and blends easily to create the ultimate rosy glow. The range includes four shades that flatter all skin tones.
One reviewer praised its sheer application saying, "It blends easily without streaking or destroying my foundation. It's buildable yet sheer. It doesn't cause skin irritation and lasts." Sounds good to us!
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Lilah B.
Divine Duo Lip & Cheek, $46 at Sephora
With four matte shades and one shimmer finish, it's no wonder this moisturizing lip and cheek duo had one reviewer saying, "I love the colors, quality and how versatile it is. The packaging is also sleek and perfect to slip in my bag when I'm on the run and need a quick touch-up."
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NARS
The Multiple, $39 at Sephora
This is a multipurpose stick for eyes, cheeks, lips and body. The creamy formula and sheer color blends effortlessly, making it quick and easy to apply. It's also enriched with vitamin E and açai oil for antioxidant benefits.
Reviewers praise its many uses with one saying, "I love using it on days when I'm running late for work and can't spend a lot of time fussing with several shades of eyeshadow. I just place my ring finger on the surface of the stick for a few seconds and it softens from my body heat."
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TrèStiQue
Blush Stick, $28 at trèStiQue
Though it's only available in three shades, they're so universally flattering you'll appreciate the easy choice. The gel-cream texture is easy to apply, providing a seamless blend and light feel.
As one reviewer said, "The package design is great for travel, but this has become my go-to (product) at home too. I'm very happy with this purchase." Another loved that it's cruelty-free and that "it gives me healthy rosy cheeks without any shimmer or sparkle and no breakouts."
