With more and more brands on the market, it makes sense that products have developed over the years. Long gone are the days where powder blush was the only option. Liquid or cream blush is popular with end-users and professionals alike. A few swipes of the right product can add depth to your face, making you look healthier and more youthful, adding dimension to your face that bronzer and highlighter can’t do alone. Here, we’re delving into the differences between the two and why one might be better suited for your skin than the other.
What are the main differences?
Generally speaking, if you’re looking for a classic natural finish, a powder blush is the one to go for. With a slightly-more opaque base, they’re buildable and available in almost any tone your heart desires. If you’re looking for a smooth, dewy finish with more hydration, a cream or liquid blush is the one to go for. While they both have many pros, don’t forget it really depends on your skin type and colour – so what may suit one person may not work for another.
What is the benefit of a buildable blush?
No-one wants to look like Coco the Clown, so although good quality brands create blush with good pigmentation, they need to still be buildable to enable you to create a natural-looking rosy cheek. We would always start with a couple of swipes, and build upon it until you have your desired look.
What colour blush should I choose?
The colour your use is a personal preference, however most people choose a blush with the same undertone as their skin to create a natural look. The general rule of thumb is to opt for the opposite colour to your undertones. For example if you have a warm skin tone (which is considered a yellow undertone), opt for a warm blush shade for a natural look, and a cool blush shade for something bold. There are so many colours available from high-street right through to high-end brands, so have fun experimenting with different colours and types to find the one that’s right for you.
What brush should I use?
A wise person once said: ‘A person is only as good as their tools’ and we stick by that at Beauty Answers HQ. A good quality blush brush is something we have all invested in simply because you want your product to compliment you. A blush brush too tightly packed carries the risk of picking up too much product and not disseminating it enough, whereas a loose brush won’t pick up as much and make you work twice as hard to build it to your desired payoff.
A fluffy brush with a tapered end helps with precision, but be sure to check it’s suitable for cream and powder as some fibres aren’t suitable for cream bases. Some MUA’s swear by applying cream blush using their fingers – this will help control how much you use and its exact placement, plus the warmth will allow it to blend much easier. Don’t forget to make sure your hands are clean first though – you don’t want gems on your face!
How do I apply blush to my face?
The trick to applying blush perfectly is to start under your cheekbones, brushing upwards diagonally towards your temples, slowly adding more if you need it, while blending in circular motions to make it look as natural as possible. Don’t forget the apples of your cheeks and any other part of your face you want to add a bit of extra warmth – for example a very light dusting on the centre of your forehead.
Product picks
Take a look at a few of our favourite blush products…
Mac Sheertone Blush
Probably the MVP of my make-up bag is the MAC Sheertone Blush – I’ve been a fan of these for years and can’t recommend them enough. Buildable and natural-looking while feeling soft and lightweight on the skin. It’s a no-brainer for me.
NARS Cosmetics Blush
Looking for something to glide on effortlessly with a great payoff? We love these compact blushes by NARS. They look effortlessly natural and have multiple finishes to suit those who want matte, satin or shimmer finishes.
Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturiser Blush
This is the perfect product for those ‘no-makeup’ makeup days. Combining moisturiser and blush, this glides on to the skin for a barely-there, minimalist look. If you’re looking for a hydrating product that achieves buildable depth, this is the one for you.
ICONIC London Sheer Blush
If you haven’t seen this on Instagram, where have you been? The brand has blown up with the likes of Stacey Solomon and Mrs Hinch raving about their products and we can see why. The ultra creamy formulation transforms from a lightweight gel into a liquid, creating a beautiful soft shine you can’t achieve with a powder. Best of all, not only is this product packed with antioxidants, it’s a two in one – enabling you to use it on your cheeks or lips. Sold!
Benefit Benetint Rose Tinted Lip & Cheek Stain
This classic Benetint is applied to the face using a lip gloss applicator and can be blended to achieve your desired look. It’s super-absorbing though, so once applied you need to act fast to blend, blend blend! Like the ICONIC version, this also doubles up as a lip stain for a long-lasting look.
