We’re on the hunt for the best blush ever. What’s your favorite?
Years and years ago, I picked up a copy of Bobbi Brown: Teenage Beauty at Barnes & Nobles. Within about a day, I read it cover to cover, and within about a week, I begged my mom to take me to Clinique so I could play with quality makeup that would let me recreate the tutorials in the book. One of the biggest lessons I learned then that has stuck with me still: blush has the power to change so much about how you look. It can take your face from flat to dynamic, tired to energetic, dull to radiant, and since then, blush and other complexion enhancers have probably been the most important items in my kit, both professionally and personally.
(Related: Does NARS Orgasm Blush Live Up To Its Hype & $30 Price Tag?)
The problem with blush is that it is much more difficult to find the right one for you than, say, liquid eyeliner. You can read about which formulas last the longest; you can see what the applicator looks like; you don’t really need to match up the shade to your skin tone. Blush, on the other hand, takes some experimenting. A shade that might work for thousands of people might suck for you. You need to take into consideration formula, shade, application, undertones, texture, durability, and plenty of other factors that can make or break a particular rouge for your face.
Check out our roundup from this open thread of the 15 best blushes!
I have two favorite blushes–one cream and one powder. First, the cream: Make Up For Ever HD Cream Blush
Not only does it look so incredibly natural, lasts a long time, both on your face and as a product, because you only need a little bit at a time. It’s easy to apply with your fingers, a sponge, or a brush, so regardless of your favorite application tool, you can use it to your heart’s desire. My shade is 210 (a pale, cool pink), but there are lots of others to choose from.
Second, the powder: Smashbox Halo Long Wear Blush ($28, Smashbox).
When I apply this beautiful formula with the It Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe French Boutique Blush #4 ($34.50, It Cosmetics), it gives my skin an ethereal glow. I’m in love with the shade Peachy Dream, so if you’ve ever wanted to give a warmer color a try, that is the perfect one to start with.
What is your favorite blush ever? Tell us in the comments!