Believe it or not, there was a time in my life where I never wore blush. I breezed right by that makeup category without giving it a second thought. Finally, when a friend cornered me and applied some to my pale, lifeless cheeks, I understood. Blush doesn't have to look clown-y, or overdone, or any of those negative things I associated with it. A sweep of color will make your skin look healthier, more alive, and glowier than ever before. I get it—that bright pink pigment looks pretty intimidating in the pan. But trust me when I say that no look is complete without a kiss of color. It makes you look alive, and gives that extra oomph you've been missing. Whether you’re going for rosy and light or vampy and intense, these are our top drugstore blush picks. (PS. While you're at the drugstore, why not pick up a great bronzer or foundation?)
Best Subtle Shimmer
Two is better than one. Made from a mixture of matte and shimmery shades, this Milani blush draws inspiration from terra cotta and is streaked with glowing glitter for a warm finish.
Best for All Skin Tones
Don't worry too much with shade-matching when it comes to Maybelline's iconic formula. This blush will seamlessly match your skin tone and add the perfect amount of color to enhance it naturally.
Best for On-the-Go
Just one swipe gives your cheeks a sheer and lightweight finish (no brush needed). Plus, it's infused with aloe to keep your cheeks super hydrated.
Best Blendable Blush
There's nothing worse than applying blush only for it to look like a pink streak across your face. With this product, that will never happen. It blends like nothing else, and leaves behind a glowing finish that can't be beaten.
Best Beginner's Tint
If you're worried that you might overdo a sweep of blush, never fear with this product. The formula is super lightweight, making it nearly impossible to put on too much. For anyone who digs intense pigment, it can be built up for the pop of color you desire.
Best Lasting Color
With vitamin C and other healthy ingredients, this product is skincare as well as makeup. The natural hues will give your face that extra oomph while never resembling a circus clown. Plus, it won't drift off your face, so you'll have a healthy glow from morning till night.
Best for Skipping Concealer
For those days where you don't want to look like you tried, this easy-to-blend blush will give you that perfect no-makeup vibe. It matches your skin tone and texture to conceal any unwanted bumps, while delivering a natural finish for a barely-there effect.
Best for Beginners
They say great things come in small packages. This no-fuss option comes in the cutest compact and offers a quick blush touch-up for an on-the-go glow.
Most Foolproof
This bouncy blush has a buildable formula that allows you to get from subtle glow to more intense color (without overkill).
Most Hydrating
Add a kiss of color to your cheeks and lips with this multi-purpose stick. The smooth and non-sticky formula includes hydrating ingredients like jojoba seed oil, sunflower seed oil, and coconut oil.
Best Multi-Hued Blush
The combination of shades in this blush will bring soft hues and subtle shimmer to your cheekbones. Sweep it across the bridge of your nose for a sun-kissed look.
Best Color Pop
Make your cheeks pop with this lightweight blush. Thanks to its high pigment technology, this hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested formula delivers punchy color.
Most Nourishing
You’ll not only treat your skin to a splash of color with this marbleized blush but skin-loving ingredients, too. The easy-to-blend formula includes natural botanicals like rosehip oil that’ll nourish your skin.
Best For Day-To-Night
This buildable blush allows you to go seamlessly from a subtle dose of color to high impact. The pressed powder is cruelty-free and vegan.
Best For Travel
This cream blush is easy to blend and will give you a natural flush look with a dewy finish. The fact that it comes in a stick makes reapplying a cinch when you’re out and about, so toss it in your bag before you head out the door.
Most Creamy
Achieve a natural, radiant glow with this lightweight, smooth blush. Not only will it bring beautiful color to your cheeks, but it'll moisturize your skin with argan oil and vitamin E.
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Hana Hong is the beauty assistant at Marie Claire, where she covers skincare, makeup, and haircare, and is identifiable by her signature cateye.
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