When it comes to adding a flush of color to your face, blush is the hero of your makeup bag. But not all blushes are created equal. Powder blush can be messy, and cream blush doesn't always last. That's where liquid blush comes in. It delivers both pigment and staying power, making it a game-changer in the world of blush.
Liquid blushes are water-based and heavily pigmented, but they sheer out for a gorgeous glow-from-within flush, according to South Carolina-based makeup artist Claire Viehman. While cream blushes are best for dry skin, liquid blush is ideal for all skin types, especially dry or mature skin, or when you need long-lasting makeup. You can wear it alone to liven up your complexion or layer it into a full face application for an added flush of color.
To find the right shade of liquid blush for your skin type, New Jersey-based makeup artist Crystal Gossman suggests trying your favorite lipstick color on your cheeks. This trick helps you discover what tones you like best. You can also consider your skin tone and undertones. For fair skin, try fresh pinks, corals, and berry shades. Medium skin tones shine in rosy pinks and golden corals. Olive skin tones are best suited for orangey-peach or bronzed/golden-toned blushes. Dark skin tones work well with brick reds, warm corals, and berry shades. You can also look at your veins. Green veins suggest warm undertones, so opt for warm blushes in colors like orange, burnt sienna, or raw umber. Blue veins suggest cool undertones, so look for blushes in cool hues like pinks and mauves.
When it comes to applying liquid blush, start with a clean and moisturized face. Adding a primer can help create a nice grip for the product. For a natural, sun-kissed look, use your ring finger to tap the liquid blush on the apple of your cheeks and blend it upward. If you prefer a brush, use a blush brush to apply a small amount to your cheeks and blend it well into your foundation. Remember, a little goes a long way, and you can always add more if needed. If you apply too much, use your foundation brush to tone it down in areas where you don't want too much color. Once you've achieved the desired level of color, set your finished liquid blush look with a dusting of translucent powder for maximum longevity.
Now that you know how to find and apply liquid blush, let's explore the top 15 liquid blushes recommended by experts:
Best Long-Lasting Liquid Blush: Nars Liquid Blush
Nars Liquid Blush delivers a radiant glow and feels lightweight on the skin. It's highly pigmented and blendable, available in signature shades that suit various skin tones.
Best Shade Range: Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez Soft Pinch Liquid Blush
Rare Beauty offers an ultra-pigmented liquid blush with eleven shades to choose from. Whether you prefer a matte or dewy finish, this blush has something for everyone.
Best Liquid Blush With Applicator: Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Light Wand
Charlotte Tilbury's Beauty Light Wand comes with a built-in applicator. It has a quick-drying, blendable formula and is available in six shades.
Best Gel-Liquid Blush: Glossier Cloud Paint
Glossier's Cloud Paint is a beloved bestseller known for its easy application and natural finish. Its unique gel texture melts into the skin, leaving a dewy finish.
Best for Travel: Olio E Osso Tinted Balm
Olio E Osso's multi-use facial balm is perfect for on-the-go touch-ups. It adds color to your cheeks and brightens up your eyes while moisturizing and soothing your skin.
Best Affordable Liquid Blush: NYX Professional Makeup Sweet Cheeks Soft Cheek Tint Blush
NYX's budget-friendly liquid blush offers intense pigment, weightless formula, and long-lasting wear. It's also vegan and priced under $10.
Best Liquid Blush for a Natural Finish: Benefit Cosmetics Benetint Rose Lip & Cheek Tint
Benefit Cosmetics' Benetint provides a sheer, natural flush of color for both cheeks and lips. It's perfect for those who prefer a subtle, effortless look.
Best Lightweight Liquid Blush: Pixi Sheer Cheek Gel
Pixi's Sheer Cheek Gel has an oil-free, translucent gel formula that leaves a natural flush of color. Its compact size makes it convenient for travel.
Best Vegan Liquid Blush: Saie Dew Blush Liquid Cheek Blush
Saie's water-based blush provides a subtle, dewy glow. It's buildable and comes in shades ranging from light pink to berry. The packaging is also sustainable.
Best for Fair Skin Types: Drunk Elephant O-Bloos Rosi Glow Drop
Drunk Elephant's O-Bloos Rosi Glow Drops deliver a rosy, understated finish. They work best for fair to light skin tones and provide a dewy radiance to the skin.
Best Multipurpose Liquid Blush: Danessa Myricks Beauty Vision Flush Blush, Eyeshadow and Lip Color
Danessa Myricks Beauty offers a multi-tasking flush blush that can also be used as an eyeshadow or lip color. It's a versatile product loved by professionals.
Also Consider Liquid Blush With Applicator: Surratt Beauty Liquid Blush
Surratt Beauty's luminous liquid blush provides vibrant pigment and blends flawlessly. It comes with a sponge tip applicator and is available in stunning colors.
Best Water-Resistant Liquid Blush: Danessa Myricks Beauty Colorfix Eye, Cheek & Lip Cream Pigment
Danessa Myricks Beauty offers a water-resistant, multi-use cream pigment that works well on eyes, lips, and cheeks. It's perfect for long-lasting wear.
Best Hydrating Liquid Blush: Chantecaille Cheek Gelée
Chantecaille's soothing liquid blush provides full coverage without feeling heavy. It comes in playful hues and adds a healthy, all-over glow to the skin.
Best Cream-Liquid Blush: Dominique Cosmetics Silk Tone Cream Blush
Dominique Cosmetics' cream blush offers a silky, weightless formula enriched with Vitamin E. It provides a warm peachy look suitable for various skin tones.
These are the top liquid blushes recommended by experts. Find the one that suits your skin type, shade preference, and desired finish. Give your cheeks a gorgeous glow with these fantastic liquid blush options.
