Face it, powder blushes have dominated the market for way too long. So we were more than happy to know that alternative blushers are getting their time in the spotlight. Unlike powder, cream or liquid blushers usually double-up as lip stains, and don’t usually require a brush application. This gives you have more control over your makeup, while touching up outside becomes a whole lot easier. No more portable brushes and the cleaning that comes with them!
The trick to applying a cream-based or liquid blusher is to choose a formula that you’re comfortable with. Cream blushers tend to look more pigmented compared to their powder counterparts, but they actually blend really easily so you won’t have to be afraid of harsh lines.
Liquid blushes, on the other hand, require slightly more skill. As most liquid blushers require you to apply in strokes, leaving more colour on your face, there is a higher possibility of leaving harsh streaks. The trick is to start with a small amount and build it up until you get your desired shade.
Regardless of choice, cream and liquid blushers have similar application techniques. To start, simply apply two to three dots, or streaks, along the apple of your cheeks. Using two fingers, gently swipe the blusher upwards towards your cheekbones, blending along the way. If you aren’t confident of your blending abilities, apply the blusher under your foundation. Doing so will help to soften any harsh lines, giving you the perfect pink flush. If you don’t know where to start, we’ve compiled a list of cream blushers that will make application a breeze
Tarte Cheek Stain
The eco-friendly cosmetic company is famous for creating make-up infused with au naturel ingredients. Which is why Tarte’s Cheek Stain reigns on our list. Infused with antioxidant-rich fruits such as acai and pomegranate, this blusher is actually good for your skin. The big surface area of the chubby stick also makes application really handy. Available in eight shades, we’re sure you’ll find a hue that suits you.
Shu Uemura tint in gelato
Japanese beauty powerhouse Shu Uemura has just launched the tint in gelato, its version of a lip and cheek stain. The air-whipped consistency provides a smooth semi-matte finish for your cheeks, something unattainable with a powder blush. The company also claims its formula works to fill uneven surfaces, giving you a picture smooth finish. The gelato also doubles up as a lip stain, with 12 shades to choose from.
Benefit Cha Cha Tint
It is difficult not to love the Cha Cha Tint - the name itself is so catchy! The lesser known liquid blusher counterpart of Benetint by Benefit, Cha Cha Tint has an orange hue — great for Asian babes with yellow-undertones. The company claims that the pigmented mango colour melts into the skin with ease, so you wouldn’t have to worry about streaks on your cheeks!
Laura Mercier Sheer Crème Colour in Golden Pink
The foundation powerhouse recently launched its first cream blusher. Unlike other cream blushers which come in the form of sticks, Laura Mercier chose to pack this blusher in a compact. The result is a lovely square of creamy glitter that is a breeze to blend. The blusher is lightly pigmented, so you can also use it as a highlight instead.
Tarte Cheek Stain, $47, is available at all Sephora stores. For more information, visit www.tartecosmetics.com or www.sephora.com and follow the Tarte on Facebook and Sephora on twitter.
Shu Uemura Tint in Gelato, $38, is available from April 2014 at all Shu Uemura counters. For more information, visit www.shuuemura.com.sg and follow the brand on Facebook.
Benefit Cha Cha Tint, $51, is available at all Benefit Cosmetics counters and Sephora stores. For more information, visit www.benefitcosmetics.com and follow the brand on Facebook.
Laura Mercier Sheer Crème Colour in Golden Pink $48, is available from May 2014 at Laura Mercier counters at TANGS Orchard, Takashimaya Department Store, and Robinsons Orchard. For more information, visit www.lauramercier.com and follow the brand on Facebook.