Cream vs. Liquid vs. Powder Blush: Which to Choose and How to Use It

Blush is one of the products that changes your face the most with the least effort: a few seconds and you look rested and lively. But today there are so many textures (powder, cream, liquid, gel) that it is natural to wonder which one is best.

The answer depends on your skin, the finish you want and how you like to do your makeup.

Powder blush

Features

The classic format. It comes pressed, baked or in palettes, and can be matte, satin or shimmery.

Ideal for

• Oily or combination skin, since it helps control shine.
• Beginners, because it is easy to control and blend.
• Quick touch-ups during the day.

How to apply it

After setting powder. Pick up a little product with a fluffy brush, tap off the excess and apply to the tops of your cheeks with light strokes toward your temples.

Cream blush

Features

A soft texture that melts into skin for a natural finish with a slight healthy sheen.

Ideal for

• Normal to dry skin.
• Mature skin, since it does not settle into lines like some powders.
• Natural or "no-makeup" looks.

How to apply it

Before powder, over foundation. Apply with your fingers, a damp sponge or a synthetic brush, tapping it on and blending the edges.

Liquid and gel blush

Features

Highly pigmented and lightweight. One or two drops are enough. They give a very natural, tint-like finish and usually last a long time.

Ideal for

• Anyone who wants blush that looks like it comes from within.
• Normal, dry or combination skin.
• Warm climates, since they usually set well once dry.

How to apply it

Before powder. Place one or two dots on your cheek and blend quickly with your fingers or a sponge, since some set within seconds.

Quick comparison

• Most natural finish: liquid and cream.
• Easiest to control: powder.
• Best for oily skin: powder, or cream set with powder.
• Best for dry skin: cream and liquid.
• Easiest for touch-ups: pressed powder or a cream stick.

Pro trick: layer textures

To make blush last longer, apply a cream or liquid blush first, then, over setting powder, a little powder blush in a similar shade. You get the glow of cream with the staying power of powder.

How to choose your shade

• Fair skin: soft pinks, peach and light mauve.
• Medium skin: coral, bright pink and golden peach.
• Deep skin: terracotta, raspberry, berry and burnt orange.

Common mistakes

• Applying cream blush over powder: it looks patchy.
• Using too much liquid blush at once.
• Not blending the edges.
• Applying blush too low on the cheek.

Find it at BeautyRosee

In our makeup collection you will find powder, baked and marbled blushes, cream, liquid and gel blushes, gradient blushes and multi-shade palettes, plus blush brushes. Check out the options from Kevin & Coco, Moira and Beauty Creations.

FAQ

Which blush lasts longest?

Liquid and gel blushes usually set very well. Layering cream and powder also helps color last longer.

Does blush go before or after powder?

Cream and liquid blushes go before powder; powder blushes go after.

Can I use cream blush on my lips?

Many cream blushes are multi-use and can be worn on lips and lids. Always check the product directions.

Which blush is best for beginners?

Powder blush is the easiest to control because you can build it up gradually.

Powder, cream or liquid, the right blush can become your favorite product. Find yours in our makeup collection.