Types of Blush: Which One is Best for You?

With countless formulations and shades available, finding a blush that fits you can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive guide will decode everything to know about blush. We’ll explore the different types of blushes, their benefits, and how to choose the right blush for you.  

What are the different types of blush?

Blush is a non-negotiable step in any makeup routine, especially if you prefer minimalist makeup look. However, picking up the right one is equally important. To help you make informed decisions, here's a breakdown of the most popular types of blush makeup.

Powder Blush

Powder blush is one of the most popular and commonly used blush makeup variants. Its finely milled powder blends easily, allowing you to build the intensity gradually for a natural look.  

 

Best for: Beginners, oily skin, building coverage 

 

Benefits: 

 

• Oil Control: This type of blush makeup helps soak excess sebum, making it ideal for oily or combination skin. Delivers a matte or semi-matte finish that lasts from dawn to dusk. 

 

• Buildable Coverage: You can start with a light hand and build the intensity gradually, reducing the risk of going overboard with color. 

 

• Wide Shade Range: From soft pinks and peaches to vibrant corals and plums, powder blushes are available in a wide variety of shades. 

 

Our recommendation – Use a non-comedogenic blush that offers a true-to-tone color and blends seamlessly for lasting performance.  

Cream Blush

Another popular type of blush, a cream blush glides effortlessly on the skin, delivering a natural glow and a dewy finish.  

 

Best for: Dry skin, dewy finish, natural appearance 

 

Benefits

 

• Hydrating: This blush type is best for dry skin. Enriched with moisturizing ingredients, it works wonders on dry or dehydrated skin while adding color. 

 

• Seamless Blend & Dewy Finish: The creamy texture melts into the skin, creating a seamless, second-skin dewy finish, perfect for creating ‘no-makeup’ makeup look.  

Gel Blush

The makeup world never ceases to stun us, and gel blush is one of the reasons for that! Like gel gloss, gel blush has a sheer texture and offers a buildable color payoff that leaves you with natural-looking skin. 

 

Best for: Long wear, natural-looking flush, all skin types 

 

Benefits

 

• Long-lasting: Popular for their lasting performance, this type of blush is ideal for warmer days, active lifestyles, or when you need your makeup to last. 

 

• Natural Finish: Gel blush delivers a dewy or semi-matte finish that gives you ‘my skin but better look’. 

 

• Suits All Skin Types: Work well for most skin types, as they are typically free of oils and heavy emollients.   

 

Liquid Blush

The next in line is liquid blush that offers intense pigmentation and long-lasting performance. Liquid blush melts into the skin seamlessly, delivers buildable color for a soft flush or dramatic statement.  

 

Best for: Long wear, extreme color, versatile usage 

 

Benefits 

 

• High Impact Color: It delivers a wash of color that can be built up for a dramatic look. 

 

• Long-Lasting: These blush formulas ensure lasting performance and stays put even through hot and humid weather. 

 

• Versatility: You can apply this type of blush before or after the foundation for different effects. You can also mix some liquid blush with moisturizer or primer for an all-over customized glow.  

 

Our recommendation – Use 2-in-1 highlighter with blush. This type of non-comedogenicliquid blush can double duty as a  and blush. Delivers natural glow for up to 12 hours, dermatologically tested, non-comedogenic, paraben-free and suitable for sensitive skin.highlighter and blush for radiant glow. 

Stick Blush

Stick blush is new-generation blush makeup product that has gained popularity due to its convenience. Easy to apply, portable, and ideal for a quick touch-up on the go.  

 

Best for: On-the-go use, travel-friendly 

 

Benefits 

 

• Buildable Formula: Its creamy formula penetrates the skin effortlessly, creating a natural-looking flush that lasts.  

 

• Convenience: Simply swipe the products, and blend for a sheer wash of color. You can build easily for a more intense effect. 

 

• Travel-friendly: In a hurry? Need a blush touch-up? Consider using stick blush. The compact size makes it easy to keep in your purse for touch-ups throughout the day. 

 

Now that you know about the different types of blush, let’s do a crash course on how to choose the right blush based on your skin type. 

How to Choose the Right Blush for Your Skin Type?

Oily Skin: Go for powder blushes to control excess shine control and achieve matte finish 

 

Dry Skin: Cream or gel blushes are ideal for dry skin types due to their moisturizing and hydrating formula and dewy finish 

 

Combination Skin: Make room for two types of blush makeup. Use Powder blush on your T-zone and cream blush on your cheeks  

 

Sensitive Skin: Choose cream or liquid blush that is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic  

 

We hope, this detailed guide on different types of blush makeup will help you find the best one for your unique skin type. Read our guide on ‘how to apply blush’ and become a blush aficionado. 

 

Need assistance with blush shades? Navigate through the Maybelline Virtual Try-on tool that lets you virtually experiment with different face makeup, eye makeup, and lip makeup products without any commitment.