Mastering how to apply cream blush can add warmth to your skin and take your makeup from flat to lively. Unlike powders, cream blushes give you more flexibility and look more natural. “They allow skin to look like skin while adding color, freshness and dimension,” says Lauren D’Amelio Ventre, a bridal makeup artist based in New Jersey. They’re a great choice for leveling up your summer makeup routine; with a little setting powder, your look stays in place through humidity and sweat.
Here, we spoke with pro makeup artists for more tips on where and how to apply cream blushes for a long-lasting natural flush finish.
What exactly are cream blushes, and what are the benefits?
Cream blushes are what they sound like: cream formulas in pigmented hues to add depth, color, and flush to the cheeks. “A well-formulated one often creates a softer, healthier, and more youthful appearance,” says Ventre, whereas a powder blush by itself can sometimes appear too shadowy and stark.
You might want to choose a cream blush if you find that your makeup appears too matte or cakey and settles into fine lines. Cream blush will seamlessly blend into skin—and can be topped off with a powder blush to set it. “The goal isn’t to eliminate powder entirely. It’s to use just enough to lock everything in place without sacrificing the natural glow of the skin,” says Ventre.
Liquid blush is similar, though it requires a little bit more technique to apply. Cream blushes are a bit more forgiving. They play better with different skin tones and types, especially if you’re looking for full coverage to mask acne, dark spots, or wrinkles.
How to apply cream blush
Depending on the look you’re going for and your skin type, there are a couple of ways to go about application. But before we get there, starting with the right skin prep and tools can make all the difference.
Prep the skin.
Begin by massaging skin with a hydrating moisturizer and primer. “Well-hydrated skin allows cream products to blend more evenly and wear better throughout the day.” Use a primer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides to keep dry skin or flakiness at bay. This will give you the ideal base.
