19 of the Best Blushers, All Tested by a Beauty Editor
If there is one product that can instantly make you look and feel better it's a good blush. But with so many different colours and textures to choose from, it can feel like a bit of a minefield. From liquid to gel, powder to cream there is a product to suit all skin tones and makeup styles. In the pursuit of finding the perfect blush, I set out to try hundreds of different formulas and shades to ensure you can find one that works for you.
If you've been sleeping on the power of blush to transform your look, then this is your sign to take note. As far as I'm concerned, it is the most underrated beauty product and if used correctly, it can not only transform your face but have multiple uses. Especially as we enter the summer months and, if like me, you tend to switch to a lighter base and prefer to go for minimal makeup as the temperature rises.
Before you say hello to what may just become the most important product you add to your makeup bag, I have asked two top makeup artists to explain the power of blush. Makeup Artist and Founder Monika Blunder says this is all down to how it reintroduces colour to your face. "Without it, you can look flat or lifeless," she tells PS UK. "Blush also adds a youthful and feminine touch." Celebrity makeup artist Lan Nguyen-Grealis, who counts Raye as one of her clients agrees. "Blush is an important part of your makeup because it enhances natural glow," she tells PS UK. "It gives dimension and lifts the face with depth, gives a youthful appearance and also gives versatility to the overall look."
Read on to find out which blush is right for your skin type, why you should be considering a different formula depending on the finish you want to achieve and find out my top 19 blush products for 2024.
What Are the Different Types of Blush?
Although there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to blush, Nguyen-Grealis believes there are certain formulas that will enhance and suit different skin types. "Cream formulas give a dewy or satin finish," she says. "These are ideal if you have dry or mature skin as it can give a natural seamless glow." If you have oily or combination skin, Nguyen-Grealis recommends a powder. "This works well on all skin types, but particularly suits oily to combination skin as it absorbs excess oil and gives a matte finish," she tells PS UK. " It is also easy to control and can add intensity where needed." If you prefer a wet formula then Ngyuen-Grealis recommends a gel texture. "This lightweight works well with oily skin too and gives a long-lasting, transparent tint and glow," she says.
If you're looking for a waterproof blush that will last all day Nguyen-Grealis recommends a tint or stain formula, which she insists works for all skin types too. Similar to a cream or liquid blush, that can be worn alone or with a powder on top to add intensity.
"From a formula standpoint, cream blushes are great for a dewy, easy-to-blend flush," explains Blunker. "Powder blushes are my favourite for layering on top of cream blushes for extra staying power and vibrancy."
Want to add a glow to your skin? It may be worth considering a luminous blush with some shimmer. "This can act as both a highlight and a blush," says Blunker. "Or for a natural skin finish, opt for a matte blush without any shimmer as this will give a very realistic and natural-looking flush."
What Is the Best Way to Apply Blush?
"I'm a big fan of cream blushes in general," says Blunker": "I use my fingers or a brush to apply the blush in all the places the sun would naturally hit, almost like replicating a natural flush or post-workout glow. I carry the blush over the bridge of the nose and pop a bit on the temples of the forehead to mimic that sun-kissed look. I also apply a bit of blush onto the eyelids to tie the whole look together."
"My favourite way to apply blush is at the beginning of the cheekbone slightly offsite the centre," Ngyuen-Grealis tells PS UK. "Use a cream first to get a natural blend and intensity where needed, then doubling up with a powder to give dimension and longlasting wear."
What Colour Blush is on Trend For Summer 2024?
In terms of shades, there are no rules and this summer you can go bold with a vibrant pink or stick to muted shades. "Bright blushes are youthful and playful," Blunker tells PS UK. "While more muted, natural tones can be used for a subtle impact. I think a playful, bright peachy coral blush will be all the rage this summer, as well as a bright, true red as both shades are so youthful, fun, and juicy," she says.
For Nguyen-Grealis she sees the revival of plum and magenta tones coming through. "These colours give a sunken appearance of a lived in blush as if you've been out in the sun all day," she explains. "These hues also work well to give the appearance of hollow cheekbones and add shape to the face, without the need for added contour – so there's less product on the face overall."
Editor-Approved Best Blush for 2024
![Best For a Natural Flush: Merit Flush Balm](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/YH-2DwV82WBMryTNozwDFs1W0gY=/fit-in/792x600/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/06/03/610/n/29590734/109f82414cfbf676_Screenshot_2024-06-03_at_13.27.59.png)
Best For a Natural Flush: Merit Flush Balm
Merit Flush Balm in Sheer Red (£32)
When I first looked at the applicator and the shade I thought, gimmicky and not for me. Well, I was wrong. From the first swipe across my cheeks I fell in love with this blush. Not only does the colour add the much coveted "Just finished a brisk walk in the cold" flush, it seems to blur the skin and gives a natural-looking glow that is usually impossible to replicate – 100% recommend.
![Best Summer Shade: Fenty Freestyle Cream Blush in Big Melons](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/Js7Ji2BXGySRSUAJaKOttsVqaQQ=/fit-in/792x810/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/06/03/610/n/29590734/62933de6a01e3136_Screenshot_2024-06-03_at_13.29.29.png)
Best Summer Shade: Fenty Freestyle Cream Blush in Big Melons
Fenty Freestyle Cream Blush in Big Melons (£22)
If you're looking to add a pop of colour this summer then this vibrant coral is for you. It is a cream formula, which means it can be built up depending on how bright you want to wear it. It can also be added to your lips and eyes for a simple, yet effective monochromatic makeup look. It is such a beautiful shade and adds a golden-hour glow to the skin that is basically the makeup version of an Aperol spritz at sunset.
![Best Stick Blush: Iconic London Blurring Blush Stick](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/Z4PMmLLC3Bz5Kfwoq34QYa1vmqE=/fit-in/792x663/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/06/03/610/n/29590734/87abcabd0151edac_Screenshot_2024-06-03_at_14.09.46.png)
Best Stick Blush: Iconic London Blurring Blush Stick
Iconic London Blurring Blush Stick in Cosmo (£23)
I love a stick blush as it makes it easy to apply on the go, there's no need for brushes and I find it tends to last longer than a compact. It also makes application enjoyable, which I think is half the fun when it comes to makeup. This particular formula is so blendable, it looks seamless on the skin and has been designed to blur, so gives a filter-like finish.
![Best Premium Blush: Victoria Beckham Beauty Cheeky Posh](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/n8Cj-vBm6faBBqWT2lCsw3BYqAE=/fit-in/792x770/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/06/03/610/n/29590734/9b2f8c2952857148_Screenshot_2024-06-03_at_14.11.07.png)
Best Premium Blush: Victoria Beckham Beauty Cheeky Posh
Victoria Beckham Beauty Cheeky Posh in Fame (£39)
This isn't just any blush, this is apparently the shade VB wears herself. Super smooth and highly pigmented, this slick cream blush has the texture of a satin lipstick on first application but as you blend it into the skin it mimics the natural texture. It is the ideal shade for adding natural-looking contour to the cheekbones and under the temples.
![Best Skin Like Finish Blush: Jones Road](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/BCMS53_VcZhQ8nvXm9wuouK4uqs=/fit-in/554x860/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/06/03/610/n/29590734/bf82f4d5da977726_Screenshot_2024-06-03_at_14.11.41.png)
Best Skin Like Finish Blush: Jones Road
Jones Road Lip and Cheek Stick in Tawney Nude (£34)
If cream blush scares you, then this is for you. As with all Jones Road products the idea is to enhance rather than hide or transform your face. This mauve rose is perfect if you have a cooler skin tone, think blue veins and a natural pink flush, as it adds colours without you looking red or flustered. It also has a slightly matte finish which tends to suit more mature skin.
![Best for Oily Skin: Laura Mercier Blush Colour Infusion](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/kqWjPoFN0me_JbwiqFU1tApFVPA=/fit-in/792x780/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/06/03/610/n/29590734/a00c4de45f81f25d_Screenshot_2024-06-03_at_14.12.43.png)
Best for Oily Skin: Laura Mercier Blush Colour Infusion
Laura Mercier Blush Colour Infusion in Ginger (£31.50)
If you have oily or combination skin, or find that cream blush tends to disappear after a few minutes then it may be worth trying a powder. This shade adds warmth without leaving an obvious blush finish so it's ideal for those who like the no-makeup makeup look.
![Best for Glazed Blush: Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Luminous Blush](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/4cv7ATDyv2jAozHBPKO_bX6Zhpw=/fit-in/792x734/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/06/03/610/n/29590734/86aee32a0c9688a9_Screenshot_2024-06-03_at_14.13.42.png)
Best for Glazed Blush: Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Luminous Blush
Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Luminous Powder Blush in Truth (£26)
I have to admit it was a real toss up whether to include this over the Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush, however this finish is unlike so many others I have tried, so I couldn't complete a best blush round-up without it. This is a blush highlighter hybrid that gives skin an almost etheral finish. It is so pretty and ideal for pulling off a glazed skin finish. Apply on its own or on top of your cream blush for a three dimensional finish that will look good from every angle.
![Best Budget Liquid Blush: Catrice Blush Affair Liquid Blush](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/YF1_rOCaQOxBVHASkFwE5RtXA6w=/fit-in/722x790/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/06/03/610/n/29590734/19c20401e0960d66_Screenshot_2024-06-03_at_14.14.53.png)
Best Budget Liquid Blush: Catrice Blush Affair Liquid Blush
Catrice Blush Affair Liquid Blush (£5)
When it comes to budget offerings, this is as good as any I have tried. I tend to find the cheaper options don't last as long on the skin, however this stood up against some of its competitors and then some. Apply a few drops to cheeks and then blend with a small highlighter brush.
![Best High Pigment Blush: Haus Lab Colour Fuse Blush](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/Ob5FGYTaUpxjRCOl3-5j3TE6m-U=/fit-in/792x683/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/06/03/610/n/29590734/8f3a2eaaad600bc2_Screenshot_2024-06-03_at_14.15.34.png)
Best High Pigment Blush: Haus Lab Colour Fuse Blush
Haus Lab Colour Fuse Blush in French Rosette (£28)
It's not often powders are as highly pigmented as creams or liquids, however this blush can compete with the best of them. It has such high colour payoff that you do not need more than a swipe to achieve the blush look. I tend to also use this blush across my eyelids too.
![Best Blush With SPF: Nudestix Nudescreen Blush Tint in Strawberry Sunkissed](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/yzl2njh0YQsOd_A7RsqnfV8jkQk=/fit-in/792x973/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/06/03/610/n/29590734/cb1a61c461a4ec92_Screenshot_2024-06-03_at_14.16.22.png)
Best Blush With SPF: Nudestix Nudescreen Blush Tint in Strawberry Sunkissed
Nudestix Nudescreen Blush Tint in Strawberry Sunkissed (£26.50)
A blush with added SPF, what's not to love? I love wearing minimal base in the summer so this is ideal as it not only adds warmth to the skin it gives you an added layer of sun protection especially across the nose and cheeks which can often be exposed to more sunlight.
![Best Blush Applicator: Ruby Hammer Cheek Colour](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/crC_lNLOiNz-pq_oYjAUZhWYt6I=/fit-in/792x790/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/06/03/610/n/29590734/ec7a487dcc637bca_Screenshot_2024-06-03_at_14.18.49.png)
Best Blush Applicator: Ruby Hammer Cheek Colour
Ruby Hammer Cheek Colour in Red (£24)
This packaging is not just super cute, it is really practical too. I love that you can see the shade through the top of the lid, but also that you can wind it up and down as you use it. It is also ideal if you are a bit of a makeup novice as you simple apply in one line across your cheekbones and then blend into the skin with either your fingers of a brush.
![Best Blush Stain: The Body Shop Sheer Touch](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/mSkqC_oweqg8iGDtxUQ9CfMgdKc=/fit-in/792x784/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/06/03/610/n/29590734/2204b9ec94b40ee9_Screenshot_2024-06-03_at_14.20.01.png)
Best Blush Stain: The Body Shop Sheer Touch
The Body Shop Sheer Touch in Brave (£14)
If you are looking for a stain-like finish then this is for you. Ideal if you are spending the day at the beach or by the pool as it won't run or separate like a cream or liquid can. It is also lovely on the lips so minimises the need for multiple products.
![Best Liquid Blush: Rodial Blush Drops](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/bgbLjiSFsd5lcn3zZp8CfLi_V44=/fit-in/792x711/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/06/03/610/n/29590734/0a349f1cb1ffea99_Screenshot_2024-06-03_at_14.20.33.png)
Best Liquid Blush: Rodial Blush Drops
Rodial Blush Drops in Frosted Pink (£39)
A couple of drops of this and your skin will appear healthy, flushed and glowing. It has a really silky texture that blends into skin and can be built up to achieve the desired finish. I love adding this to the top of my cheekbones and around the temple.
![Best Buildable Blush: Glossier Cloud Paint](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/OJY6tb9BEmx8tqfL3cYALPAnV4Q=/fit-in/792x880/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/06/04/519/n/29590734/75afb86417682274_Screenshot_2024-06-04_at_12.14.35.png)
Best Buildable Blush: Glossier Cloud Paint
Glossier Cloud Paint in Storm (£22)
Available in 10 blush shades, I like how this has a shade for every skin tone and every mood. I particularly like Storm which a warm rose hue that really enhances medium to deep skin tones, giving a natural-looking flush effect. It is quite sheer on first application however the key is the way it can layer up without peeling or separating on the skin.
![Best Longlasting Blush: Vieve Sunset Blush](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/-P19xuJmuMU3r32wxXkanN0mgCU=/fit-in/792x693/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/06/03/610/n/29590734/4d1c04ac17ebd6ff_Screenshot_2024-06-03_at_14.21.12.png)
Best Longlasting Blush: Vieve Sunset Blush
Vieve Sunset Blush in Cherub (£27)
This bold pink really makes the skin pop. It is not the shade for those looking for a subtle, natural-looking flush, instead it is for those who want to wear their blush loud and proud. I really like how highly pigmented this blush range is and find that it lasts for hours after application.
![Best Blush/Bronzer Hybrid: Bare Minerals Gen Nude Blonzer](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/smX6XKVoI6POh-yOcuqT4VRk7Mk=/fit-in/792x759/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/06/03/610/n/29590734/4be1308586fe4c30_Screenshot_2024-06-03_at_14.21.47.png)
Best Blush/Bronzer Hybrid: Bare Minerals Gen Nude Blonzer
Bare Minerals Gen Nude Blonzer in Kiss of Pink (£27)
I love this product as my final step, it is ideal over the top of a cream product to make it last longer, or worn alone to give a natural looking flushed finish. As it has some warmer tones it can be worn across the forehead and under the chin too to add depth to the skin in place of an additional bronzer.
![Best Vibrant Blush: Refy Cream Blush](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/MAD2VUlraPbPXp50k1JMyUT6520=/fit-in/792x796/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/06/03/610/n/29590734/69e339eef42ad274_Screenshot_2024-06-03_at_14.23.30.png)
Best Vibrant Blush: Refy Cream Blush
Refy Cream Blush in Guava (£14)
This cream blush is a very good mid-market option for those looking to experiment with bright or vibrant shades and don't want to spend a fortune. I like to dab it on to the top of my cheekbones and the middle of my lips for a bright, playful makeup look.
![Best Peach Blush: Sculpted by Aimee Cream Luxe Blush](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/7_IeYIQn17gSpWnO1DL9UfCNq80=/fit-in/792x668/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/06/03/612/n/29590734/504781268fd16c0b_Screenshot_2024-06-03_at_14.41.15.png)
Best Peach Blush: Sculpted by Aimee Cream Luxe Blush
Sculpted by Aimee Cream Luxe Blush (£17)
This cream blush is my go-to "one product does it all". Because of its peachy, warm undertones it can be worn all over the face as a blush and bronzer. It blends seamlessly into the skin and can be built up to achieve a really bold colour or worn slightly sheerer for a more natural looking glow. It also gives skin a radiant finish – ideal for the days when you may need a bit of a pick-me-up.
![Best All Rounder: Nars Orgasm+ Blush](https://media1.popsugar-assets.com/files/thumbor/Sx8t4gmr-pkbgWfBtn8QXZBrPPw=/fit-in/792x764/top/filters:format_auto():upscale()/2024/06/12/439/n/29590734/779f4f64ffeeb783_Screenshot_2024-06-12_at_10.32.35.png)
Best All Rounder: Nars Orgasm+ Blush
Nars Orgasm Blush (£34)
When I think of blush I think of Nars Orgasm. This suits-all pink which gives the skin a soft shimmer and all-over glow is iconic for a reason, and it has now been given a 2024 update with a new formulation and added shades. I really like Orgasm+ as its the hue we all know and love but amped up to the max. Oh, to say I have tried many dupes over the years, there is nothing that will ever match the real thing.
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Lauren Ezekiel is an associate editor at PS UK, where she writes about all things beauty and wellness. With a degree in journalism and 12 years' experience as a beauty editor at a leading Sunday supplement, she is obsessed with skincare, hair and makeup, and is often found offering advice to innocent bystanders. Her work has been published in Grazia, OK, Health and Beauty, The Sun, ASDA, Dare and Metro.