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Listen to me: I would never advocate sunburn. I’m not even a proponent of tanning – just perfect your tanning routine and put on sunscreen. However, I can’t help but think that sun-kissed blush that’s unique to summer is the perfect beauty look. I know you know (and probably agree). Think about it: rosy cheeks minus the effects of heat stroke, and a pink nose without the sun damage. It’s no wonder blush is one of summer’s most popular trends. Now you can achieve romantic blush more easily than ever with the best blush stick on the market.
Featured image taken from our interview with Babba Rivera.
Why a blush stick is my summer beauty must-have
By summer, my makeup routine dwindles down to almost no makeup at all. (Skin-friendly is having a moment!) When I travel, I intentionally go minimalist with the products I package. But even when I’m at home, I don’t want layers of product on my face.
Simplicity is key, but so is versatility. Enter: blush stick. This seasonal alternative to powder or liquid blush is super convenient on the go, lasts longer, and is easier on fresh summer skin.
Compare Cream, Powder, and Liquid Blushes
Blush sticks are cream blushes that come in simple pocket-sized packaging. You may be used to applying powder blush to the apples of your cheeks, but cream blush is becoming everyone’s go-to for a rosy complexion.
Cream blush sits on the surface of the skin, allowing you to get more results with less product. Due to its texture, it promotes an even, hydrated skin tone. Powder blush can create wrinkles, liquid blush can cling to dry patches, and cream blush can give you a natural, glowy finish.
The magic of multipurpose sticks
Another great thing about blush sticks is that they are often multiple products in one. Palettes have gone out of fashion, but multi-use sticks can deliver cohesive color to your cheeks, eyes, lips, and even the bridge of your nose. With its numerous applications, you can rely on one product to create countless looks.
The best blush sticks for year-round sun-kissed glow
I tested and reviewed the creamiest blush sticks for every look, skin concern, and practical need. Next, you’ll find blush sticks with SPF, the hot blush sticks everyone’s talking about, and the frankly underrated ones. Read on to learn about the best blush sticks to give you a summer glow in just a few swipes.
Rhodes Pocket Blush Stick
Our verdict: The one worth the hype.
Shading options: 6
Whenever Hailey Bieber releases a new product through her viral line Rhode, the beauty world Shocked. This blush stick is no exception—and honestly, the hype for the stick is growing with every drop. Unlike other mythical beauty brands, these buzz-worthy products have quickly become mainstays in our makeup routines. Because yes, they are that good.
This blush stick is a buildable pigment with a smooth texture that gives you an instant pick-me-up. I love the shade “Toasted Teddy Bear”. It feels sophisticated yet fun and frivolous at the same time. Think of it as the perfect red wine blush stick for summer nights.
ILIA multi-use blush + highlighter + skin tone
Our verdict: The most popular 3-in-1 product available in countless shades.
Shading options: 12
This ILIA multi-purpose blush stick is one of the best blush sticks on the market and it does it all. This skin-care-first makeup brand makes cleansing products that look great without damaging your skin. This buildable blush stick doubles as a highlighter and lip gloss. Dot it where you need a bit of color and blend with your fingers (my favorite way to apply it) for natural, dewy coverage. Subtle iridescence will make you look radiant, but never shiny.
Westman Atelier Cream Blush
Our verdict: The one who will change you.
Shading options: 9
I’ve been a long time devotee of the Westman Atelier foundation stick. Now, the blush stick has made its way into my makeup bag too. This luxurious, clean beauty mainstay will make you interested in any other blush. It contains skin-loving ingredients like kaolin clay to prevent clogged pores and absorb excess oil, and antioxidant-rich vitamins C and E.
Ami Cole Blush & Lip Gloss Multi-Purpose Stick
Our verdict: Your skin becomes more radiant.
Shading options: 4
This lightweight cream blush is the closest to a natural, skin-like glow I’ve ever seen. The mixture is seamless and spreads easily with just your fingers. (No need for endless dabs of makeup sponge.) If you know Ami Cole for her feather-light foundation, trust that their blush and lip gloss multi-purpose sticks are just as satisfying to apply. The texture blends into the skin for a no-makeup look. #CleanLook lovers, this one is for you.
Violet FR Bisou Blush Stick
Our verdict: A favorite among French girls.
Shading options: 4
I can never resist the beauty secrets of French girls. (Is anyone immune to their timeless yet trend-setting abilities?) I even stock up on my favorite French pharmacy products during every stay at Charles de Gaulle. One thing French girls know is rouge – whether it’s lips or cheeks, they always get it right. Violette FR’s matte cream blush gives you a classic look that you can dab onto your cheeks and lips. Marbled swirls create a multi-dimensional look, while included blush ensures smooth blending.
Ogee contour blush stick
Our verdict: Next generation silhouette.
Shading options: 10
The Contour didn’t die – it just got reinvented. This contouring blush stick is perfect for those who don’t want to give up a sculpted look. Define your features with just one swipe without weighing down your skin. With buildable gloss and iridescent effects, you’ll get glassy, shimmering color with every swipe. It also uses green coffee oil to stimulate collagen, sal tree resin to smooth pores, and tapioca flour to absorb excess oil.
Merit Cream Blush Color
Our verdict: The go-to, buildable blush for a sun-kissed look.
Shading options: 9
This multi-purpose balm has a smooth, non-stick finish that’s very flattering, and we like that it’s small enough to slip into your pocket or purse. It’s blendable and buildable, conditioning skin with vitamin E oil for a natural, cake-free finish. Best of all, it leaves your complexion glowing with a realistic flush effect. Pro tip: Use with Merit’s Dayglow Highlighter for a dewy glow without any glitter.
Olio E Osso lip and cheek stick
Our verdict: A lightweight blush stick you’ll take with you on every trip.
Shading options: 10
The texture of this blush stick is more like an oil than a cream, and I always picture it as something I would take with me on vacation. Apply to skin after the beach/before dinner or before heading out in the morning. It’s lightweight, hydrating, and the color is almost non-existent. As one of the OG clean Beauty blush sticks, it’s a staple due to its moisturizing properties and unique olive oil formula. In other words: wherever I go, it goes. always.
Haus Labs Long Wear Lip & Cheek Stick
Our verdict: The best skin boosting option that sensitive skin will love.
Shading options: 8
Hydrating and plumping, trust Lady Gaga to create a highly pigmented blush stick that plumps, moisturizes and soothes skin. It’s formulated to boost collagen production, plumping and moisturizing skin while reducing unwanted redness for the perfect amount of pigment. Best for sensitive or irritated skin, this is the best blush stick to give your skin some TLC after a long day in the sun.
Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protective Color Cream SPF 50
Our verdict: Sun protection, buildable SPF.
Shading options: 6
You may know Colorescience from its viral color-changing sunscreen. But the brand’s tinted SPF magic doesn’t stop there. This versatile stick’s multi-pigments give you a natural-looking flush and provide mineral sun protection. However, you don’t want to rely solely on it to protect you from the sun. Dermatologists say cosmetics containing sunscreen aren’t that effective on their own because we often don’t apply enough. Still, this is a great blush stick that boosts SPF and you’ll be happy to reapply it.
