Blush is having a moment. Contouring is out, and we’re embracing rosy cheeks and chic flushes instead. Finding the right blush to create a natural ‘just ran for the bus’ look isn’t easy. There are powders, balms, sticks – the list is endless. However, cream blushes have become our go-to for effortless blending and a natural, dewy finish.

If you’re not convinced cream blushes can replace your trusted powder, we’ve enlisted the experts to make a case for adding a cream blush to your make-up bag. 

What are the benefits of using a cream blush?

“There are a few benefits of using cream blush over powders – it depends what you want to achieve,” explains celebrity make-up artist Caroline Hernandez. “For instance, if you love wearing make-up but don’t consider yourself very good at blending, cream blush is probably going to be an easier option for you.” 

Because of this, she says cream blushes are perfect for creating the ‘sunset blush’ trend – where you blend two similar shades together to create a gradient effect – something we’ve seen all over social media lately.

Another advantage of cream blushers? They’re a doddle to apply. In fact, you don’t even need a make-up brush – your fingers can be your tool. “You can really blend a cream into the skin so it really looks like the colour is coming from your skin itself, rather than a colour laying on top, with less effort than a powder blush,” says Hernandez. 

What skin types suit cream blushers?

Cream blushers are more hydrating, giving a natural dew and glow, so they’re ideal for dry skin. Those with oily skin may struggle. “Those with very oily skin will find that a cream blusher will probably separate and then ultimately not last very long on your skin,” says Hernandez.

However, you can make this work by applying a long-lasting primer to the skin to prep it for cream blush application. Hernandez recommends the Urban Decay All Nighter Long Wear Face Primer for this job. A setting spray afterwards to set will also help lock everything in place. She also recommends opting for a liquid blush over a balmy texture, as they tend to have more staying power. 

How to apply cream blush

The beauty of a creamy blush is that you can dab it on with your fingertips while you’re on the go without having to worry about having a mirror handy – they’re that blendable. However, Hernandez is a fan of using a trusty brush for application. 

“I love to use a slightly fluffy brush, but that has a little resistance to it when applying cream blusher. If you have large pores, a cream blusher can get a little stuck in the pores giving little spots of deeper colour where it has become ‘stuck’. Using a brush will really allow you to blend this product out,” she explains.

If you’ve gone a bit OTT, Hernandez’s trick is to apply a damp beauty blender to help blend it out. 

Should you put powder over cream blush?

Cream blushes tend to lose out against powder formulas when it comes to longevity, but Hernandez has a solution for this dilemma. “Laying a cream blush down first will allow a powder blush to really adhere to it and strengthen the colour or texture of the product on top, with the added benefit of the powder blush helping to set the cream blush underneath,” she says. We love to see two products working together. 

Images: Refy; courtesy of brands