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Collage by Sarah Olivieri Beauty Makeup The 11 Best Cream Blushes That Melt Right Into Your Skin The 11 Best Cream Blushes That Melt Right Into Your Skin In a sea of makeup options, expert-loved formulas from Nars, Dior, and more are must-haves
True beauty enthusiasts understand the starring role a subtle flush plays in creating an angelic glow—which is why adding one of the best cream blushes to your rotation is a must. “There is a reason why cream blush has taken over the world—it's flattering on anyone,” says celebrity makeup artist Nam Vo , well-known for coining the term “dewy dumpling.” “Whether you're 16 years old or 100 years old, cream blush is flattering and amplifies your beauty. It’s best for anyone who wants to look healthier and more youthful.”
While powder blush is still a mainstay among artists, the malleability and versatility of cream formulas are undeniable. And the best part? These formulas couldn't be easier to apply, using a brush or your fingertips. Celebrity makeup artist Kelli Anne Sewell has even developed a signature layering technique with cream blush that creates a foolproof, natural flush. “My shadow blush technique uses two different blushes—an earthy, more subdued tone generously applied all over the cheeks, from your contour to the edge of your eyelids, and a bolder color that I concentrate on the apples of the cheeks,” she explains. “This earthy tone blush creates a backdrop for the bold blush shade.”
From travel-friendly sticks to easy-glide formulas, the best cream blushes come in a variety of options to suit your application preferences. And as a bonus, many expert and editor favorites also feature nourishing skincare ingredients. Ahead, we’ve rounded up some of the top creamy blushes to shop now.
Dior has a range of blush formulas, but the fashion house’s blush sticks have quickly become a favorite among Bazaar editors. The formula, infused with moisturizing cherry oil, is pH-activated, so it’ll enhance any of the seven shades to create a custom hue depending on your skin’s undertone.
What Bazaar editors are saying: “Not only do these convenient sticks impart a sheer-yet-buildable color, but they have light-reflecting pigments that illuminate my cheekbones, allowing me to forgo highlighter.” — Katie Intner, beauty market and commerce editor
Nars released a reformulation of its famous The Multiple Stick earlier this year, and it’s been a big hit with our editors. Now creamier and more pigmented, this blush requires only one swipe for a shimmery glow. You can also apply it to your eyelids and lips.
What Bazaar editors are saying: “I've always been a Nars blush fan, but the new formulation is even more buttery, pigmented, and blurring than ever before. This formula also layers beautifully with my other blush picks!” — KI
A cream blush that goes on like a serum? Say less. It glides smoothly, without dragging across the skin's surface. This makeup artist-approved formula creates a subtle luminous finish.
What experts are saying: “For a cream formula, I love the Yensa Super Serum Silk Cream Blush. I'm especially drawn to cream blushes that incorporate skincare benefits, and this serum-based formula has a beautiful silky texture that blends easily into the skin. It's buildable, so you can create anything from a subtle, natural flush to a more defined pop of color witho…