The 15 Best Blush Sticks of 2023

Whether you’re just starting out with your makeup routine or you’re a pro, there’s always room for improvement. And while it might seem like a blush stick is just another tool in the drawer, there are tons of ways that you can use it to enhance your look.

As the name suggests, a blush stick is a cream blush that comes in a stick form. They’re easy to apply and blend, so you can apply them anywhere on your face—but especially the cheeks and lips. There is also a wide range of hues available for use in these formulas. You can find ones that match your natural complexion or you can choose from more vibrant colors if you want something a bit different.

Below, we rounded up a list of the best blush sticks online today. Choose from celebrity-backed brands like Fenty Beauty or Ariana Grande’s r.e.m. beauty to cosmetic staples like Milk Makeup and clean beauty brand ILIA among others.

This two-in-one cream blush and lip tint is formulated with hydrating ingredients that hydrate skin, so you can use it in place of a moisturizer.

The shimmering, blendable formula gives your cheeks a healthy glow and can be effortlessly smoothed out. It’s also available in eight shades—light pink, true red, and berry— and comes in a stick format so it’s easy to apply wherever you need some extra brightness or warmth on your face!

While the product has a noticeable sheen, you can get a more natural look by applying it straight to your cheeks and then blending it out with your fingers or another applicator of your choice.

The All Over Face Matte Blush by Nudestix is a creamy stick blush that enhances your skin tone and overall appearance.

To keep your face appearing young and healthy all day, every day, use this trick for a natural-looking flush. Its two-sided construction makes it convenient for use as a blush, eye shadow, or lip balm. There are a total of ten different tones available, from light pinks and reds to neutrals and dark plums.

As one makeup wearer shared, “This cream blush is excellent and by some miracle is fungal acne safe. My skin is extremely sensitive to products that are FA unfriendly, and this blush is no problem at all, even worn all day.”

ILIA’s Multi-Stick Cream Blush +Highlighter + Lip Tint provides a sheer, buildable flush of color to the apples of the cheeks and the cupid’s bow. You can discover the right match for your skin tone among its twelve different tones, or experiment with blending and layering to create a unique effect.

Shea butter, avocado oil, orange peel extract, and vitamin C are just a few of the nourishing components included in the formulation of this product, which aims to fortify skin while also moisturizing it for an extended period of time. The texture is smooth without being oily or greasy, and it has just the right amount of thickness.

“I’ve slowly been transitioning to clean beauty products and I’m so happy with the look and feel of each item. This multi-stick is perfect for my cheeks and lips. I love the color and the staying power,” explained one buyer.

If you’re a Rihanna fan, this is the blush stick for you. You can apply it on your lips, cheeks, or wherever else you desire a little color, and it will stay there for hours thanks to its long-wearing, shimmery texture.

There are a total of eight distinct tones available, spanning the gamut from baby pink to a fiery orange-red. Use the cream-to-powder blush and highlighter, which were both modeled after the singer, to add a dash of flair to your beauty routine.

“I like to look at these Shimmer Skinsticks like I look at my clothes in the closet. Am I doing fun? Am I doing alien? Am I doing weird? Am I doing sexy? Am I doing extra? Am I doing girl next door? You choose,” shared Rihanna.

The singer added, “The point is, there are so many and they’re so fun. You can just collect them, magnetize them and use them as you please depending on your mood, your outfit and where you’re going, the occasion.”

The Cheeky Tint Cream Blush Stick from Huda Beauty lives up to the brand’s reputation for producing excellent cosmetics. This creamy blush stick may be built up to create a more intense color, and it applies smoothly to the face for a fresh, just-made-up appearance.

There’s no need to reapply during the day since the formula is water-resistant and won’t smudge or fade. Lychee extract and vitamin E are used to hydrate the skin and make the formula easy to apply.

This product is great for those who like using a wide variety of colors since its five contained tones run the spectrum from bubblegum pink to dusty peach.

“I love this blush! The stick formula makes it super easy to apply if you’re in a rush or going for a natural look. This shade is perfect for the barbie pink look. I also love how the shade has some shimmer in it,” says one wearer.

To give a pop of color to your face, this blush stick may be used on your lips or cheeks. Pixi‘s On-the-Glow Blush is available in three different colors—pink, orange, and berry—that can be worn alone or blended together.

With just one swipe of this tinted balm, you can add a healthy dose of radiance and hydration to your skin without the hassle of applying foundation.

One of the things we like most about it? That cost! This might be the blush for you if you want something that won’t break the bank but will last all day long so you can apply it many times without appearing or feeling shabby.

This blush stick has a hydrating composition that is good for all skin types and provides sheer, buildable coverage with a dewy finish.

The emollient-infused product leaves skin feeling soft and supple all day; however, those with dry skin or an aversion to creams that feel too heavy on the face should go elsewhere. On the other hand, if you have oily skin, get breakouts in the summer, or are simply looking for a lightweight option, this product may be ideal for you.

“Absolutely love the texture and longevity of this product. Wish it was a bit more pigmented on my brown skin though,” says one reviewer. “Nonetheless, that’s a personal opinion and the pigment is still great!”

When you’re looking for a blush and lipstick in one, consider this duo. Ten colors, including burgundy wine, brilliant crimson, and nude rose, are available in the r.e.m. Eclipse Cheek & Lip Stick, which is combined with highly moisturizing elements like jojoba seed oil and grapefruit extracts to make it feel more like a lip treatment than a matte cheek stain.

“I’m so excited about our eclipse cheek and lipsticks. What I love most about them is that they are infused with grape extract, jojoba, and cocoa seed extract so that while you can use them for some gorgeous color,” says Ariana Grande.

She continues, “They are also working simultaneously to nourish and benefit your skin. They come in a versatile array of colors that complement all skin tones and wear really beautifully.”

The Mic Drop Blush Stix is a new addition to the ColourPop family. It’s a creamy, hydrating formula that melts right into your skin and gives off a long-lasting finish. 

As chic as the packaging may be, what really matters is the quality of the product itself, and these blush sticks do not disappoint. The range of colors allows them to complement a wide range of complexions, from fair to dark.

One buyer stated, “Love these! I use them on my cheeks as well as my eyes! I love Mic Drop. Definitely gives you a more vibrant glow. I will definitely be buying more. I also love that they take up less space than a palette!”

You can use the DreamStick Cream Blush by Persona whenever you like. It’s the perfect option when you want a quick blush, but don’t want to commit to an hour-long makeover.

Choose from bubblegum pink, cherry red, or apricot nude in this ultra-lightweight, multi-use blush. All three are light and oil-free, yet they provide the appearance of healthy skin thanks to ingredients like safflower seed oil and fruit extracts.

No need for brushes; just a little touch on the cheeks and lips will give you a healthy summer glow. It is safe to use the mixture without a brush or sponge tip applicator since it includes antioxidants, anti-inflammatory characteristics, and soothing ingredients like aloe vera gel.

You’ve been looking for a product that can add a bit of color to your skin without being too obvious, and you’ve found it: MERIT’s Flush Balm Cream Blush.

Whether you’re looking for a light, natural flush or want to add some color to your lips or cheeks, this product will give you just what you need. The 8 shades are all pretty neutral so they can be used on a variety of skin tones. And the formula itself is simple and easy—you just swipe it on and blend it in with your fingers or a brush if you want more coverage.

But what really makes it stand out is its ability to protect against UV rays and keep skin hydrated while you’re wearing it. Vitamin E nourishes and conditions skin while also acting as an antioxidant that helps prevent premature aging.

This cream stick from Westman Atelier is the perfect product for you. Not only does it give your skin a natural, hydrating finish, but it also includes ingredients that will help keep your complexion looking radiant and youthful.

The highlight of this product is its high concentration of berryflux vita fruit extract, which helps boost hydration and preserve youthful-looking skin. The formula contains jojoba seed oil to help improve hydration levels and strengthen the barrier between the skin’s surface and its outer layers so moisture can be maintained throughout the day.

“Amazing color, formula application, wear, and longevity,” wrote one reviewer. “An incredible cream blush that can as easily be applied with a brush or with your fingers.

The perfect cheek color for the Instagram-obsessed millennial.

If you’re looking to add a healthy glow to your face, look no further than Cheek Colour Balm by Clinique. This creamy formula is oil-free, so it won’t clog your pores or leave any red marks behind. It’s also easy to apply, with just one swipe of the applicator, and it dries quickly so you can be out on the town sans makeup in no time!

With this product, you can finally stop worrying about your imperfections—you’ll have the perfect cheek color in an instant!

Undone Beauty’s Water Blush is a face-blushing gem of a product.

This hydrating formula melts into your skin for a natural-looking flushed cheek, and it’s so easy to use! Just apply in the same way you would a regular blush and blend out using your fingertips or a brush.

The result? A dewy, glowing finish that lasts all day long. And best of all, there are no streaks or mistakes—just gorgeous, soft color that feels like it came straight from the sea.

EM Cosmetics Blush Stick is like a unicorn that you can hold in your hand.

This cream blush is unlike any other on the market; its air-whipped texture glides effortlessly over the skin for a healthy flush that looks completely natural. Soft, easily blended, and suitable for all skin tones, this custom formulation is the result of a careful balancing act between powders and emollients.

And it doesn’t stop there! It also never feels greasy or dry, and always looks natural—no matter how much you blend it. Vitamin E and squalene also work together to repair and maintain your skin barrier, allowing you to achieve a radiant, young appearance.

So there you have it, our list of the best blush sticks for your makeup routine. We hope you find one that suits your needs and preferences. We’ve covered a wide range of brands so we can guarantee that there will be something on this list that will match your needs and wants!

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What to Look for in a Blush Stick

Formula Consistency

When choosing a blush stick, the consistency of the formula is paramount. You’ll want a blush that glides smoothly on your skin without tugging or pulling. It should blend easily, allowing you to achieve either a subtle hint of color or build up for a more intense look. Creamier formulas are often best for a dewy, natural finish, while denser ones can offer more dramatic effects.

Shade Range

Blush sticks come in a plethora of shades, from delicate pinks and peaches to deep berries and bold corals. The right shade for you depends on your skin tone, undertone, and personal preferences. Lighter shades typically work well on fair skin, while deeper hues flatter darker skin tones. Also, you may want to consider having a variety of colors for different occasions and makeup looks.

Staying Power

While blush sticks are beloved for their convenience and ease of application, their staying power can sometimes fall short compared to powder blushes. Look for blush sticks with a reputation for longevity. Some formulations also boast water-resistant or transfer-resistant properties, which could come in handy on long days or in hot weather.

Skin Benefit Ingredients

Many blush sticks now come infused with skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid for hydration, antioxidants for protection, or light-reflecting particles for a glowy finish. If skin health is a priority for you, considering a blush stick that offers more than just color can be beneficial.

Packaging Design

The design of the blush stick itself is an often overlooked aspect, but it can make a significant difference in application. Consider the size and shape of the stick. Smaller, narrow designs may allow for more precise application, while larger ones could provide a more diffused look. Also, packaging should be sturdy and travel-friendly, ensuring your product stays intact when on the go.

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FAQ

How do you apply blush sticks?

Blush sticks can be a convenient and easy way to add a pop of color to your cheeks. Start by selecting a blush stick that matches your skin tone or desired look. To apply, swipe the stick across the apples of your cheeks, starting at the hairline and working your way inward. Use a blending sponge or your fingers to blend the color into your skin, making sure to blend upwards towards your temples to avoid a harsh line.

If you want a more intense color, you can layer the blush stick, building up the color gradually. Make sure to blend the color well to avoid any streaks or patchiness. Finish by setting your makeup with a setting powder to help the blush stick last longer.

Where do you apply blush sticks?

Blush sticks are applied by swiping them over the apples of your cheeks, from the hairline inward. Applying the blush to this area will give your face a natural, flushed look.

It’s crucial to mix the color smoothly so that there are no obvious lines or patches. When applying blush, use a blending sponge or your fingers to work the color into your face, blending upwards toward your temples to prevent a harsh, downward crease.

The cheeks aren’t the only part of the face that may benefit from a little contouring; the nose and forehead can also be highlighted with a blush stick. Be careful to mix the color in thoroughly so that it doesn’t appear patchy or have any unnatural lines.

How do you use cream blush?

To get a perfectly rosy glow using a cream blush, follow these simple steps: Start by preparing your skin by cleansing and moisturizing it. This will ensure a smooth and even application of the blush. Next, you’ll want to take a small amount of cream blush, either using your fingers or a brush, and apply it to the apples of your cheeks.

Blend the blush outward towards your hairline, using light and upward strokes, until it is evenly distributed. This will help you avoid any harsh lines and create a natural, radiant look. If you prefer a more intense color, you can always add more blush, building up gradually until you reach your desired level of intensity. Finally, set your makeup with a light dusting of powder to help it last all day. With these tips, you’ll be able to achieve a beautiful, rosy glow that will enhance your natural beauty.