Whether you’re creating a layered blush look or prefer having all your blush shades in one place, a blush palette is a smart choice. In fact, a blush palette may be enough to replace your entire collection of single-shade blush compacts.
Blush palettes usually include between two and six shades that may come in more than one finish. If you’re looking for a palette with color variety, NARS Exposed Cheek Blush Palette is a top choice.
What to know before you buy a blush palette
What is a blush palette?
Blush palettes are compacts that have more than one shade of pink, red, purple, plum or peach. They create a number of looks, including simple single-shade flushing, as well as intense multidimensional looks. Blush palettes differ from face palettes, in that face palettes typically include blush, highlighter and bronzer.
How to apply blush
While applying blush is a relatively easy process, refining your application technique may improve how it looks.
If you wear liquid or cream foundation, wait for it to dry before applying powder blush products. Otherwise, you may experience a patchy application.
Start with a little blush and blend it as much as possible before you apply more color to avoid a ruddy appearance.
To achieve a look that flatters, apply blush based on your face shape. If you’re unsure of how to do that, speak to a makeup artist or check out YouTube makeup tutorials.
Instead of using setting powder to lock in your look, which may leave you with a flat finish, reach for a lightweight makeup setting spray.
Blush palette features
Formula
While blush is available in several formulas, most blush palettes are available in powder or cream formulas.
Powder blushes are suitable for all skin types and tend to be the preferred formula for individuals with oily skin. They’re easy to apply and blend with brushes over all types of foundation. However, some powder blushes have mattifying effects that may leave skin dry.
Cream blushes work well for individuals with dry and mature skin given their soft, moisturizing qualities. They blend particularly well over cream and liquid foundation, as well as over bare skin. However, most cream blushes are oily, so they may transfer or melt off sooner than powder formulas.
Shade variety
Blush palettes include multiple shades that are either within the same color family, or they’re completely different. Certain palettes, for example, may include a variety of rose-gold tones that can be layered to create understated or intense looks. Other blush palettes may have a bold collection of plum, red and pink shades that are nothing alike. In turn, they offer three distinct looks when used individually.
Finish
Depending on the blush palette, it may include one or more finishes. Matte finish blush is often used to create natural looks; however, they may have somewhat of a drying effect on foundation and skin. Satin and shimmer finishes add dimension and glow to a blush look, but sometimes, they may create a strobe and reflect too much light in photos.
Compact design
For the most part, blush palettes share similar clamshell compact designs. Some blush palettes include full-length mirrors on the inside lid, whereas others include small brushes. Many blush palettes include a plastic separator between the shades and the lid, which helps prevent blush from transferring to the mirror.
Blush palette cost
Drugstore blush palettes cost $6-$20. Palettes made by high-end beauty brands start at $29, which usually include trios and quads. Premium blush palettes featuring six shades or limited-edition color stories may cost $40 and above.
Blush palette FAQ
Do I need to wear blush?
A. It’s not necessary for all makeup looks, though it helps add a pop of color and may emphasize cheekbones. With that said, if you’re looking for definition and contouring, consider using a contouring stick or palette. Some people wear highlighter instead of blush and place it just above cheekbones to create a “lifted” look.
Can I use the same brush to apply blush, highlighter and bronzer?
A. You shouldn’t, as sharing the brush among these products may result in unwanted color transfer. Instead, use separate brushes for each one. At the very least, you should clean your brush thoroughly before you switch between products. You don’t need to shampoo-wash the brush; rather, just use a dry makeup brush cleaner or spray cleaner.
Which blush palette should I get?
Best of the best blush palette
NARS Exposed Cheek Blush Palette: available at Amazon
Our take: This limited edition blush palette features six luxurious shades whose formulas are high-pigment and long-lasting.
What we like: The blushes glide across skin with a silky, blendable finish that won’t streak. The shade collection is well-curated and is suitable for all skin types. Blush works well with highlighters and bronzers.
What we dislike: Pricetag is significantly higher than our other choices.
Best bang for your buck blush palette
Makeup Revolution Vintage Lace Blush Palette: available at Ulta
Our take: An affordable option from a favorite brand, this four-shade palette has a fairytale-inspired color story.
What we like: The palette features a combination of pink and peach tones that can be worn individually or layered. The shades are satin finish, which makes the blush “pop” and photograph well. Some buyers felt the quality was on-par with high-end beauty brands.
What we dislike: The shades have a high concentration of glitter that may be too bold for daytime wear.
Honorable mention blush palette
Anastasia Beverly Hills Blush Trio: available at Amazon, Ulta, Sephora and Macy’s
Our take: Praised as a blendable formula, this blush trio is ideal for those looking for quick and easy application.
What we like: The shade trio features a finely milled formula that offers seamless blending over all foundation types. As a full-pigment formula, the blush has a buildable intensity and won’t fade throughout the day. The compact is travel-friendly and includes a full-length mirror.
What we dislike: The pans are rectangular, which makes it challenging to lift individual colors with brushes.
Sian Babish is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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