Blush—you either love it or hate it. And even if you’re a fan, chances are you’ve made it a point to stay clear of its seemingly messy liquid varieties, opting instead for a more decadent cream or tried-and-true powder formula. Hey, we get it. At first glance, liquid blushes are a bit intimidating, but trust us when we say there’s a lot to love about these colorful complexion-enhancers.
While past formulas had a reputation for being watery and hard to manage, today’s liquid blushes have been reimagined with lighter textures and more natural-looking finishes, making it easier than ever to dab them on, blend them in, and go—no giant makeup brushes required. What’s more, there’s now a range of options to choose from: They can be sheer or hyper-pigmented, dewy or matte, and subtle or intense. And unlike powders, these water- and gel-based formulas are often far more hydrating—making them an excellent option for dry and mature skin types—and transfer-resistant, so there’s no need to worry about smudging, smearing, or creasing.
Ready to give your go-to powder a break? Keep scrolling for the 12 liquid blushes our editors swear by for a flawless, natural-looking flush.
