The 15 most natural-looking cream blushers money can buy

Follow in the footsteps of make-up artists everywhere and invest in a cream blusher

Portrait of smiling young black woman wearing yellow headscarf wearing a cream blusher
(Image credit: Getty Images/Ngozi Ejionueme / 500px)

If you're still attached to your favourite old powder formula, allow us convince you that a good cream blusher might just be the best make-up product out there.

The secret weapon of make-up artists (and a French-girl make-up must have), a cream blusher is widely regarded as the most natural way to create a healthy glow. Easy to blend and long-lasting, a cream blusher is pretty much fool-proof to apply and perfect for giving that enviable no-make-up, make-up look.

There are tons of types to choose from giving slightly different finishes—all as beautiful as the next. It’s fair to say that nothing gets us quite as excited as a new rosy hue to test. And there’s a reason they're so popular. Simply put: they mimic “healthy, dewy and naturally-flushed skin,” says pro make-up artist Amanda Bell. Whilst powders lay on the surface of the skin and look a little more obvious, creams melt into the skin and can be intensified depending on how much colour pay off you want. 

Because everyone loves cream blush so much, brands are making them quicker than we can keep up with. That means there’s plenty to choose from, which can be a little overwhelming. To help you pick the perfect one, the Marie Claire team has rounded up our best cream blushers (including some vegan make-up formulas). Plus, we asked Amanda for all of the tips and tricks to get your cream blush looking as good as can be. Naturally-flushed skin this way…  

What skin types does cream blush work best for? 

Before the days of super smart formulations, cream blushers were definitely geared more towards dry skin types. Nowadays though, there’s a cream blush for everyone—even those with oily and combination skin. 

The reason oily skin types might feel a little unsure about cream blushers is due to longevity. But Amanda says you can get around this with the help of a setting spray. “Using a fixing mist after application can enhance longevity of wear; just spritz the setting spray directly onto the make-up sponge or brush so you’re locking in pigment,” she explains. “The other thing you can do is hold pigment onto the skin using a light dusting of invisible powder over the top.”

If you're not keen on the idea of a setting spray, opting for a mattifying primer can also help your cream blush stay in place for longer.

Tips for applying cream blush 

There are a few ways you can apply cream blush depending on preference and finish. The first is using your fingers, which gives “the sheerest veil of colour as the warmth of your fingers dissipates the colour onto the skin creating a beautiful glaze,” says Amanda. Next up is using a nylon brush for medium coverage. Simply run the brush over the surface of the cream and onto the skin, then you can blend this in using the brush or tapping in with your fingertips. Finally is using a beauty sponge, which is the easiest to build up. 

There is one more way to apply it though, which Amanda says is foolproof. “Apply the blush to the heels of the hands and then add this directly to the flat part of the cheek bones, rocking back and forth,” she explains. “The rocking motion helps blend into the skin and you don’t have to overthink it, it intrinsically goes onto the correct place.” 

How we tested the best cream blush

Each formula needed to perform when it came to ease of application, good shade selection, longevity and having a beautiful finish. These were tested with various foundations and sunscreens underneath and using different application methods. These were the ones that came out on top. 

Best cream blushers 

1. Merit Flush Balm 

Merit Flush Balm

(Image credit: Merit)

Merit Flush Balm

Best cream blusher for all skin tones

Reasons to buy

+
Many shades to choose from
+
Vegan formula

Reasons to avoid

-
Packaging doesn’t feel very luxurious 

One of the most buzzy brands right now is Merit Beauty and the Flush Balm is one of the products getting attention—and for good reason. With 9 shades to choose from, a vegan and cruelty-free formula and an ultra-natural finish, there’s no wonder it’s got everyone talking. The packaging, while not super-luxe feeling, is lovely in how easy it is to dab onto the cheeks and blend with your fingers. It melts into the skin for a natural flush that’s easy to build for more pigment. 

"Cream blush is my absolute ride or die make-up product. Along with a brow gel, I'll never leave the house without a dab of cream blush on. This product in shade Cheeky genuinely never leaves my cheeks. It is, without question, my most used make-up product of 2023." Shannon Lawlor, Acting Senior Beauty Editor at Marie Claire UK

2. Hourglass Vanish Blush Stick 

Hourglass Vanish Blush Stick

(Image credit: Hourglass)

Hourglass Vanish Blush Stick

Best luxury cream blusher

Reasons to buy

+
Multi-purpose

Reasons to avoid

-
Drier formula 

For the best luxury option, it’s got to be Hourglass. The formula is quite dry, so it takes a little more work to blend into the skin. However, the blending is worth it for a soft finish that isn’t sticky in the slightest. This makes it really comfortable to wear and work with other make-up. The powdery formula means the stick doubles up as a great lipstick, so feels like a multi-purpose product in that sense. 

"Although it’s expensive, this cream blush really does last a long time because a little goes a long way. Plus, it’s worth every penny for Hourglass’s sleek packaging, which I adore." Tori Crowther, Freelance Beauty Editor and Marie Claire UK Contributor.

3. Saie Dew Blush 

Saie Dew Blush

(Image credit: Cult Beauty)

Saie Dew Blush

Best cream blush for a pop of colour

Reasons to buy

+
Luminous finish 

Reasons to avoid

-
The bright shades aren't good for beginners

Okay, so Saie Dew Blush can take some work to blend seamlessly into the skin, but it’s so worth taking the effort because these shades are beautiful. They look intimidating, but don’t let the colour scare you. Yes, the pigment is impressive but a little goes a long way and a brush is your best friend in blending. If you’ve been thinking your make-up is missing a little magic, this is just the trick. 

4. Kjaer Weis Cream Blush

Kjaer Weis Cream Blush

(Image credit: Kjaer Weis)

Kjaer Weis Cream Blush

Best sustainable cream blusher

Reasons to buy

+
Refillable 

Reasons to avoid

-
Oily skin types might find it a little wet

"This is my most-used blush and in all honesty, I can’t pinpoint exactly what I love about it. I just always come back to it, and that means a lot. It looks completely natural-looking, easily blends into the skin (seriously, it requires very little effort!) and is perfectly matte without feeling too dry. There are plenty of shades to choose from with 3 being luminous in finish if you prefer a highlighted look. The thoughtful refillable packaging makes and brand ethos makes it our best sustainable pick." Tori Crowther, Freelance Beauty Editor and Marie Claire UK Contributor.

5. e.l.f Putty Blush

e.l.f Putty Blush

(Image credit: Boots)

e.l.f Putty Blush

Best affordable cream blusher

Reasons to buy

+
Natural-looking colour 

Reasons to avoid

-
Takes effort to blend 

e.l.f just doesn’t get it wrong and the Putty Blush is no different. They’re incredibly natural-looking with enough pigment to make a nice flush without being overwhelming. They don't have the best staying power but for £6, you can’t go wrong. This formula can be a little trickier to blend so we recommend using a sponge or brush to gently sweep onto the cheeks.

"As much as I love a luxury cream blush formula, this magic of this little guy can't be overlooked. It gives almost identical results to one luxury formula in particular and I adore the dewy finish. During winter months, when my skin is a little drier, this cream blush is all I need to get my glow back." Shannon Lawlor, Acting Senior Beauty Editor at Marie Claire UK 

6. Victoria Beckham Beauty Cheeky Posh Blush

Victoria Beckham Beauty Cheeky Posh Blush

(Image credit: Victoria Beckham Beauty)

Victoria Beckham Beauty Cheeky Posh Blush

Best long-lasting cream blusher

Reasons to buy

+
Good texture for hot weather 

Reasons to avoid

-
Not ideal for dry skin types

If you’re thinking of buying the Cheeky Posh blush for the sleek tortoiseshell patterned tube alone, we wouldn’t blame you. But the formula inside is just as good. We wouldn’t recommend adding the stick directly onto your cheeks because it can drag a little due to the drier solid formula. Instead, warm it up in your fingers and then dab into the cheeks with the heel of your hands. The formula means it’s particularly perfect for hot and humid weather as it won’t slide off, but this does mean it might cling to dry patches if you suffer from dehydrated or irritated skin. 

7. Pixi On-the-Glow Blush

Pixi On-the-Glow Blush

(Image credit: Pixi)

Pixi On-the-Glow Blush

Best vegan cream blusher

Reasons to buy

+
Infused with skin-loving ingredients 

Reasons to avoid

-
Only available in three colours 

"For a stunning wash of colour, I turn to Pixi. With three punchy but wearable shades that create a beautiful wash of colour. The shape of the stick gives a lifted effect when popped directly onto the skin. It's great for dry skin types especially as it feels really hydrating a lovely on the skin." Tori Crowther, Freelance Beauty Editor and Marie Claire UK Contributor.

8. Rare Beauty Stay Vulnerable Melting Blush

Rare Beauty Stay Vulnerable Melting Blush

(Image credit: Rare Beauty)

Rare Beauty Stay Vulnerable Melting Blush

Best cream blush for vibrant colour

Reasons to buy

+
Beautiful packaging 

Reasons to avoid

-
Almost always sold out

This Rare Beauty blush truly is a rare beauty because it’s consistently sold out—that’s how good it is. Thanks to its unique cream to satin finish formula, it’s one of the longest-lasting cream formulas in the list. Although the vibrant shades might be intimidating at first, they’re a lot less pigmented on the skin and melt into the skin really well. We wouldn’t say they’re buildable but using Amanda’s tips above, you can dial up the colour with your application. The packaging is absolutely beautiful, too. The tiny compact mirror makes it the perfect on-the-go blusher. 

9. Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge 

Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge

(Image credit: Boots)

Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge

Best classic cream blusher formula

Reasons to buy

+
Great for touch-ups 

Reasons to avoid

-
Not super long-lasting

There's a reason this is one of Bobbi Brown's best sellers; a multitasking cream formula that works perfectly on both lips and cheeks, available in nine different shades, from bright and bold to pastel nudes. The cream blusher comes in a small round pot with a mirror, making it ideal for on the go face touch ups.

10. Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Blush

Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Blush

(Image credit: Cult Beauty)

Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Blush

Best all-round cream blusher

Reasons to buy

+
Smart multi-tasker 

Reasons to avoid

-
More expensive than others 

You’d be hard pressed to find a blush more chic than Baby Cheeks Blush. There’s just something special about a magnetic lid and embossed casing. But we're not just gushing over the packaging, promise. We adore the formula, too. It’s creamy, hydrating and works as a multi-tasking stick, which is ideal with the higher price tag. The shades are pretty pigmented but can be blended out to a healthy flush of colour. 

"There is no cream blush out there as good as this—trust me, I've tried them all. In fact, ask any beauty editor and I'm pretty sure they'll tell you the same. My only gripe? The price is ludicrous." Shannon Lawlor, Acting Senior Beauty Editor at Marie Claire UK

11. Rose Inc Blush Divine Radiant Lip and Cheek Colour 

Rose Inc Blush Divine Radiant Lip and Cheek Colour

(Image credit: Rose Inc)

Rose Inc Blush Divine Radiant Lip and Cheek Colour

Best refillable cream blush

Reasons to buy

+
Many shades to choose from 

Reasons to avoid

-
Not super long-lasting 

Due to the wetter texture of the product, it’s not the longest lasting on this list. But the texture is what makes it hydrating and a great option for dry skin types. The formula is super thin, so is incredibly comfortable on the skin. There's a great shade selection that can be used for the lips, too. The packaging is ultra chic and really weighty, which makes it an elegant addition to any make-up bag. 

12. ILIA Multi-Stick

ILIA Multi-Stick

(Image credit: Ilia)

ILIA Multi-Stick

Best for a natural-looking flush

Reasons to buy

+
Buildable

Reasons to avoid

-
Not super pigmented 

If you’re looking for something incredibly subtle and natural-looking, Ilia’s Multi Stick is ideal. While it's not the most pigmented, it is buildable to give you the colour pay-off you're looking for. The stick packaging makes it super easy to just dab, press into cheeks and go. 

13. Sculpted by Aimee Cream Luxe Blush 

Sculpted by Aimee Cream Luxe Blush

(Image credit: Sculpted by Aimee)

Sculpted by Aimee Cream Luxe Blush

Best water-resistant cream blusher

Reasons to buy

+
Makes a beautiful lip colour 

Reasons to avoid

-
Too pigmented for some

Planning a little swimming trip and want a blush to last? Sculpted by Aimee’s cream blush is your answer. This stuff dries down to a semi-powder finish and does not budge! It’s a little intimidating at first because it’s so pigmented but it blends out to a lovely, natural flush. 

"I particularly love this as a multi-tasker because the shades work so nicely as lip colours; my favourite is Plum Pink." Tori Crowther, Freelance Beauty Editor and Marie Claire UK Contributor.

14. Daniel Sandler Watercolour Liquid Blush 

Daniel Sandler Watercolour Liquid Blush

(Image credit: Daniel Sandler)

Daniel Sandler Watercolour Liquid Blush

Best cream blusher for sensitive skin

Reasons to buy

+
Very easy to blend

Reasons to avoid

-
Thin consistency takes a while to get used to

Okay, okay, this technically isn’t cream it’s a liquid but it’s worthy of being on the list because it gives a similar finish to creamy products. If you have rosacea or sensitive skin, it’s ideal because it requires very little blending and is featherlight. 

"As the name suggests, it’s incredibly liquid-y so I’d recommend popping a small amount (a little goes a long way!) on the back of your hand and gently dabbing into the skin with a brush. There are plenty of shades to choose from and even a quiz to help decide which is best for your skin tone." Tori Crowther, Freelance Beauty Editor and Marie Claire UK Contributor.

15. Beauty Pie Supercheek™ Cream Blush

Beauty Pie Supercheek Cream Blush

(Image credit: Beauty Pie)

Beauty Pie Supercheek™ Cream Blush

Best matte-finish cream blusher

Reasons to buy

+
Super blendable and easy to use

Reasons to avoid

-
If you prefer a dewy finish, this isn't for you

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"As someone with combination/oily skin, sometimes I find dewy cream blushers a little too 'wet' on my face. This product is perfect for shinier days thanks to its soft-focus dry down. Once warmed in the fingers, it applies like a liquidy cream but dries into a truly convincing demi-matte flush." Shannon Lawlor, Acting Senior Beauty Editor at Marie Claire UK

Beauty Contributor

Tori is a freelance beauty journalist and contributor for Marie Claire. She has written for various titles, including Allure, Glamour, Elle, Refinery29, Brides, and more. Currently training to be a nail tech, Tori is a total nail enthusiast and always has time to talk all things nail art. When she’s not writing about beauty and testing products, Tori can be found walking her rescue dog Pip, drinking great coffee, and eating as many croissants as humanly possible.