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  • 10 Best Cream Blushers 2024 | UK Makeup Artist Reviewed 1
  • 10 Best Cream Blushers 2024 | UK Makeup Artist Reviewed 2
  • 10 Best Cream Blushers 2024 | UK Makeup Artist Reviewed 3
  • 10 Best Cream Blushers 2024 | UK Makeup Artist Reviewed 4
  • 10 Best Cream Blushers 2024 | UK Makeup Artist Reviewed 5

10 Best Cream Blushers 2024 | UK Makeup Artist Reviewed

A rosy glow can knock years off, and although powder is great, cream blusher creates a dewy glow that illuminates cheekbones without caking. But It's not all about looks. Cream blusher is also more moisturising, which is perfect for those with dry skin - and if that's not a good enough reason to give it a go, we don't know what is!


Whether you're looking for a cream blush stick or compact, in this article we walk you through the pros and cons of each. Including tips on how to decide between oil-based and oil-free make-up, finding the right shade for your skin tone and much more, read on for our ranking of the top 10 best in the UK from brands like Clinique, Rimmel London and Max Factor available to buy with just one click on Amazon, Boots, John Lewis and eBay,

Last updated 21/03/2024

Quick List - Top Cream Blushers

1

Bobbi Brown

Pot Rouge for Lips and Cheeks
Pot Rouge for Lips and Cheeks

Mirrored Compact for Easy Application

2

Clinique

Chubby Stick Cheek
Chubby Stick Cheek

The Best Creamy Blush Stick

3

Florence By Mills

Cheek Me Later Cream Blush
Cheek Me Later Cream Blush

A Vegan Blush That Absorbs Excess Oil

4

Fenty Beauty

Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Blush
Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Blush

A Water-Resistant Formula in 10 Shades

5

Max Factor

Miracle Touch Creamy Blusher
Miracle Touch Creamy Blusher

An Oil-Free Option That Won't Clog Your Pores

Claire Higgins
Expert
Makeup Artist
Claire Higgins

A qualified Beauty Therapist and Makeup Artist. I provide professional makeup services for all occasions, whether it be for a bride on their wedding day or backstage at a photo shoot. I also enjoy teaching through hosting live talks on my social media, masterclass events, and 1-1 training. My favourite style of makeup is most definitely vibrant. I love a colourful eyeshadow palette... or 10!

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Table of Contents

With Specialist Advice From Makeup Artist Claire Higgins

With Specialist Advice From Makeup Artist Claire Higgins

Claire is a qualified Beauty Therapist and Makeup Artist; she provides professional makeup services for all occasions from bridal to backstage at photo shoots. Claire also teaches masterclass events as well as 1-1 training, and when she gets the chance, enjoys sharing her expertise hosting live talks on her social media. She's a big fan of the vibrant style and loves a colourful palette... or 10!


Keep up-to-date with Claire through her Facebook and Instagram page where you can learn the latest tips and tricks when it comes to makeup application and also get inspired to try new looks!  

How to Choose Cream Blusher in the UK - Buying Guide

Choosing make-up is no easy task, and if you've never tried a cream blush before, it can be hard to know what to look for. Don't worry, we have you covered with our top tips for choosing the right cream blush shade and formula for you!

1

Do You Want Makeup on the Go, or a Better Blend? Choose Between a Stick or a Compact Blush

Do You Want Makeup on the Go, or a Better Blend? Choose Between a Stick or a Compact Blush

When deciding which type of cream blush will be best, think about how you like to apply your makeup. Do you like to touch up your makeup throughout the day? A blush stick is ideal as you can glide it along your skin, without needing to use a brush or fingers


This is perfect if you're on the go and don't want to carry too many brushes in your bag, or end up with sticky hands on your commute. But be careful as blush sticks can lift off your foundation! They also need to be handled with care as they break easily and can melt, leaving you out of product, and pocket.


Using a compact cream blush with your hands, or a brush, will give you a better blend without losing your base. So if you only apply your makeup once a day, these are the best option. Cream compacts are also better protected, just try not to drop it or leave it in a hot car.

Claire Higgins
Makeup Artist
Claire Higgins

Whilst purchasing a blush, there are many decisions to be made such as the texture, form, and finish. If you're unsure where to start, consider asking yourself a few questions that will help to narrow down the selection process... and be honest!


  1. How would you rate your makeup ability - Are you open to experimenting with new techniques and formulas, or more confident with what you already know? 
  2. What kind of lifestyle do you lead - How much time do you typically allocate for your makeup routine?
  3. What are your needs and wants - Do you favour a certain finish or require a texture specific to your skin type?
2

Check the Benefits of Different Formulas, Including Cream to Powder and Cream Only

Cream blush isn't always just 'cream' blush, and different formulas have different consistencies. Some are creams that turn to powder once dry, while others become a cream only when you warm them up. Below are the benefits of each, so you know which one to pick!

Cream Blush Is Pigmented and Won't Look Flaky

Cream Blush Is Pigmented and Won't Look Flaky

A standard cream blush is the ideal makeup choice for those with dry skin as it applies smoothly and is flake-free. The texture is ideal for blending, as you can rub it into your skin to create a natural look or to give your complexion a dewy, youthful glow.


Cream blushes are typically the most pigmented, so you'll be able to achieve that bold, contoured look that's very popular right now. This also means they're great for darker skin, as the pigment is vibrant enough to stand out.

Claire Higgins
Makeup Artist
Claire Higgins

Cream blush is an ideal formula for textured skin. It’s less likely to cling to dry areas and gives the complexion a naturally fresh finish. Colour intensity is also effortlessly buildable; using a swiping motion to apply will provide a lighter shade to your blush, whereas a stippling motion will heighten colour pay off.

A Solid to Cream Blush Is Best for Blending

A Solid to Cream Blush Is Best for Blending

This blush comes as a solid and needs to be warmed between your fingers to turn it into a soft cream. You can then dot it onto your cheekbones and blend it into your skin to create a radiant look. There's no need for a brush as this formula works best when it's applied with your fingers.


The texture results in a blush that's lightweight and creamy, making it suitable for application on bare skin or over foundation. You can even build multiple layers for a contoured effect or a pop of bold colour with a dewy finish.

Claire Higgins
Makeup Artist
Claire Higgins

This formula requires a minimal amount of warming up before application; simply swirl your solid cream stick over the soft muscle area at the base of your thumb. This technique and body heat will quickly create movement in the product. 


Once the consistency softens, use small amounts and pat gently with the fingertips onto the face. Warming the product prior to application provides additional flexibility, allowing the blush to glide with ease across the skin. This prevents tugging and removing the layers of makeup underneath whilst you build to your preffered colour intensity.

Cream to Powder Blush Has the Most Staying Power

Cream to Powder Blush Has the Most Staying Power

You can have the best of both worlds with cream to powder blush. It has a creamy feel when you first apply it, but it turns into a powder on contact or once it's dry.


This gives you the benefits of both cream and powder, as it doesn't slide off the skin like regular cream blush, but still has a dewy, easy-to-blend finish. Best of all, this blush will look good throughout the whole day, even if you walk to work. So, don't go thinking it's just a gimmick!

Claire Higgins
Makeup Artist
Claire Higgins

Cream to powder blush can have you sitting on the fence at first; with its buttery consistency yet powdered finish, it can seem a little head-scratching. To sum this product up, it provides an easy glide-on application with the staying power of a setting powder, which is a bonus, as you won’t need to set it in place afterwards. 


If you still like some radiance to your blush and feel concerned about losing your glow, choose a blush containing underlining hints of shimmer or metallics. These will reflect natural light and still give a lit-from-within glow to your cheeks

3

Oil-Based or Oil-Free? Find the One That Suits Your Skin Type

Oil-Based or Oil-Free? Find the One That Suits Your Skin Type

If you have acne, choose an oil-based product that won't clog pores. Shea, jojoba, sunflower, castor, camellia, and sunflower oil all have a low risk of clogging pores. However, coconut oil, soybean, and hydrogenated vegetable oil can make acne worse.


Oil-free products won't clog pores, so you don't have to worry about exacerbating your acne. They last longer than oil-based blushes, so you won't need to keep topping it up during the day, and have a comfortable, light-weight feel. Therefore, it's the better option if your skin doesn't need extra moisturisation.

Claire Higgins
Makeup Artist
Claire Higgins

When it comes to oil-free blush, focus on what your skin type and conditions are at any given time. Identifying these will help assess which blush connects with your needs. As mentioned, the over-production of sebum leaves a shiny layer on the skin. So you may want to opt for an oil-free blush to reduce product movement and further shine. 


If you’re prone to blemishes, avoid fragrant oils in your product - these can aggravate the skin causing irritation. While dry or dehydrated skin that may be looking textured, tired or dull, a blush containing oil could provide a little needed nourishment.

4

Find a Shade That Matches Your Skin Tone

Find a Shade That Matches Your Skin Tone
Source:boots.com

Blushes come in all sorts of shades, and you have a better chance of finding the perfect blusher if it comes in more than one or two. But, with so many shades available, it can be tricky to know which one to pick.


Finding a blush that compliments your natural skin tone is a good place to start. Celebrity makeup artist Yvonne MacInnis says you can find the perfect match by pulling down your lower lip. To find the right shade, try to find a blush that's close in colour to that part of the skin on the inside of your lip.

Claire Higgins
Makeup Artist
Claire Higgins

Pairing a blush with the same undertone as your skin ensures you’ll find a harmonising colour; but if you want to amp it up, go for a blush with the opposite undertone to yours. 


Deeper complexions suit pops of colour like orange, red, berry-tones and deep pinks, giving a complementary natural flush to the skin. While medium to olive skin goes hand in hand with peach/corals because they enhance warmth. Lastly, fair skin tones benefit from soft pinks, nudes and peaches as they will provide colour and dimension without being overpowering. If the skin’s neutral, there can be many suitors.

5

Check if a Product Is Cruelty-Free if You're Against Animal Testing

Check if a Product Is Cruelty-Free if You're Against Animal Testing

Animal testing is where products are tested on animals to see if they're safe for human use, before appearing on our shelves. This happens against the animals' will, and can potentially kill them or leave them permanently injured.


These days, we're becoming more conscious of the effects we're having on the environment and our furry friends. So if you'd rather stay away from products that are tested on animals, check to see if your blush is cruelty-free. Cruelty-free products are still safe, they're just tested on people who volunteer, or human tissue samples in labs instead.

Claire Higgins
Makeup Artist
Claire Higgins

If you’re slightly conscious about buying a product because you’re unsure if it is cruelty-free or not - check for the Leaping Bunny logo. When a new product has been developed where no harm has come to any animals in the process, the Leaping Bunny logo will be printed on the product/packaging to inform consumers. This is a globally recognised symbol.

6

Think About How Often You'll Use Your Blush to Find One That'll Last

Think About How Often You'll Use Your Blush to Find One That'll Last

Cream blushes come in different sizes, and the more you buy, the longer it'll last. Go for a blusher with a greater volume if you use it daily - you'll have plenty of product, so you won't have to buy a new one every few weeks, saving you money and time!


On the other hand, if you don't use it often, pick less product. You may be considering buying a bigger one to last you a few years, but make-up has an expiration date. Cream blush usually lasts around 12 months, as it traps bacteria that can cause irritations, breakouts, and infections.


Smaller sizes can also come in handy if you're thinking about switching from powder blush to cream. That way you can try it out without wasting too much product if you realise it's not for you. 

Claire Higgins
Makeup Artist
Claire Higgins

My advice would be to try and avoid an unnecessary number of blushes on the go at once. We can all get a little carried away, but these products will most likely expire before they’ve had sufficient use. 


Next, does your makeup routine consist of blush always, occasionally, or just for special events? This will help when choosing what size product works for you. If you wear blush consistently, a palette could be just what you need. Plenty of colour choice and all in one place. But if blush isn’t a staple in your routine, consider opting for a travel-size version.

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Top 10 Best Cream Blushers in the UK

It's that moment you've all been waiting for, time to reveal our ranking of the top 10 best cream blushes available to buy in the UK! Whether you're a fan of Max Factor or Clinique, we've got something that's sure to get you blushing. 
Popularity

Products

Image

Click to purchase

Key features

1

Bobbi Brown

Pot Rouge for Lips and Cheeks

Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge for Lips and Cheeks 1

Mirrored Compact for Easy Application

2

Clinique

Chubby Stick Cheek

Clinique Chubby Stick Cheek 1

The Best Creamy Blush Stick

3

Florence By Mills

Cheek Me Later Cream Blush

Florence By Mills Cheek Me Later Cream Blush 1

A Vegan Blush That Absorbs Excess Oil

4

Fenty Beauty

Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Blush

Fenty Beauty Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Blush 1

A Water-Resistant Formula in 10 Shades

5

Max Factor

Miracle Touch Creamy Blusher

Max Factor Miracle Touch Creamy Blusher 1

An Oil-Free Option That Won't Clog Your Pores

6

Sisley

Phyto-Blush Twist

Sisley Phyto-Blush Twist 1

A Round Tip for Speedy Application

7

Rimmel London

Royal Blush

Rimmel London Royal Blush 1

An Affordable Option for Everyday Use

8

Burt's Bees

100% Natural All Aglow Lip and Cheek Stick

Burt's Bees  100% Natural All Aglow Lip and Cheek Stick 1

One For Your Lips and Cheeks

9

Laura Mercier

Crème Cheek Colour

Laura Mercier Crème Cheek Colour 1

Six Subtle Looking Shades

10

KIKO Milano

Velvet Touch Creamy Stick Blush

KIKO Milano Velvet Touch Creamy Stick Blush 1

A Natural Blush That Hydrates Your Skin

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Bobbi Brown
Pot Rouge for Lips and Cheeks

Pot Rouge for Lips and Cheeks 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£29.54
High Mid
Reference price
£29.54
High Mid

Mirrored Compact for Easy Application

This award-winning blush comes inside a compact with a mirror, for a precise application every time. What's more, this blusher can be used for adding colour to your lips as well as your cheeks for the perfect match.


It's suitable to use on acne-prone skin, as it contains castor seed oil that adds moisture, without clogging pores. It's even anti-bacterial to prevent breakouts! This product is also gluten-free, so those with allergies and intolerances can use it safely too.

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No.2

Clinique
Chubby Stick Cheek

Reference price
£21.00
Mid

The Best Creamy Blush Stick

Are you searching for a cream blusher stick? Then Clinique's Chubby Stick is a safe bet. With an oil-free formula that will give you a healthy-looking glow, it comes in four different colours all of which offer a natural finish that doesn't look overwhelming, but can be built up for more drama.


The handy stick is ideal for carrying around in your bag or inside a pocket. You can easily whip it out, swipe it across your cheeks, and go! Best of all, it lasts ages, so you don't need to keep on reapplying it every hour.

No.3

Florence By Mills
Cheek Me Later Cream Blush

Cheek Me Later Cream Blush 1
Source:boots.com
Cheek Me Later Cream Blush 2
Source:boots.com
Reference price
£7.00
Low Mid
Reference price
£7.00
Low Mid

A Vegan Blush That Absorbs Excess Oil

This vegan-friendly blush uses candelilla wax to moisturise the skin for a flake-free application without oil. Plus, the formulation contains kaolin clay, which is a natural oil-absorber that'll soak up excess sebum to help your colour appear brighter and ensure your makeup stays put.


There are four different colours available, from a light peach colour to a dark red, so you can easily find one to compliment your skin tone. Remember to use the trick of checking the inside of your lip and you'll be sure to find the perfect match!

No.4

Fenty Beauty
Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Blush

Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Blush 1
Source:boots.com
Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Blush 2
Source:boots.com
Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Blush 3
Source:boots.com
Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Blush 4
Source:boots.com
Reference price
£19.00
Mid
Reference price
£19.00
Mid

A Water-Resistant Formula in 10 Shades

Here's a water-resistant blush that will stay on even if it decides to pour down with rain, which is handy when you're living in the UK. It blends effortlessly and has a lightweight oil-free formula that won't cause breakouts. It doesn't feel greasy on your skin either, which is a relief as sticky doesn't feel good.


There are ten different shades, from classic pinks to fun colours like orange and purple for creative looks. It has a strong pigment too, so you can build it to create a bold colour that will stand out even on darker skin tones. 

No.5

Max Factor
Miracle Touch Creamy Blusher

Miracle Touch Creamy Blusher 1
Source:boots.com
Miracle Touch Creamy Blusher 2
Source:boots.com
Miracle Touch Creamy Blusher 3
Source:boots.com
Reference price
£6.47
Low Mid

An Oil-Free Option That Won't Clog Your Pores

Here's a unique blush that turns from a solid to a thin gel-like cream when you warm up between your fingers. This formula makes it better for blending and gives it a lightweight creamy feel, stored in a compact for protection.


This blush is oil-free, so it's safe to use on acne-prone skin as it won't clog your pores. It won't slide off your skin, will stay put all day and can be gradually built up from a subtle rosy glow to a vibrant pop of pink. What more could you want?

No.6

Sisley
Phyto-Blush Twist

Reference price
£52.67
High

A Round Tip for Speedy Application

This chubby blush stick has a rounded tip for easy application and better blending. The shape means that you can apply it in just one stroke, which is handy for mirror-free top-ups on the go. Plus, it uses shea and camellia oil, which will hydrate your skin without clogging pores. That's a big bonus!


Are you short on cash this month? Then sadly this blush isn't for you, as it's expensive even for a luxury product. However, if money isn't a worry, it'll be a good addition to your make-up bag.

No.7

Rimmel London
Royal Blush

Royal Blush 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Royal Blush 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£2.37
Low
Reference price
£2.37
Low

An Affordable Option for Everyday Use

Do you want to use cream blush daily without spending a ton of money? This easy-to-blend blush will fit the bill, creating a natural look that sets with a powder finish. 


There are three different colours to choose from, and you get a decent amount of product within each compact. Plus, it won't leave an unpleasant sticky or greasy residue on skin. The only downside is that you may need to reapply it throughout the day as it's not as long-lasting as other cream to powder options.

No.8

Burt's Bees
100% Natural All Aglow Lip and Cheek Stick

100% Natural All Aglow Lip and Cheek Stick 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
100% Natural All Aglow Lip and Cheek Stick 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£12.07
Mid
Reference price
£12.07
Mid

One For Your Lips and Cheeks

Here's a 2-in-1 product that you can use on both your lips and cheeks. It's perfect for when you're on the go and don't want to carry too much, and offers excellent hydration for dry skin with a combination of three oils, preventing your makeup from looking caked on.


This stick has a coconut oil core, which is great for hydration, but notoriously bad for clogging pores and likely to cause breakouts if your skin is already oily. Nevertheless, it's still top pick for convenience.

No.9

Laura Mercier
Crème Cheek Colour

Reference price
£24.34
High Mid

Six Subtle Looking Shades

Do you like your make-up to look natural? This Laura Mercier cream blush compact comes in six subtle shades, including a golden taupe that'll look gorgeous on darker skin and a soft coral for a dewy glow.


It'll set as a powder for maximum staying power, but you'll have plenty of time to blend it in before it dries. Just be aware that although the blush itself should last at least a couple of months with regular wear, the lid on the compact is a bit flimsy and can break off. 

No.10

KIKO Milano
Velvet Touch Creamy Stick Blush

Velvet Touch Creamy Stick Blush 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Velvet Touch Creamy Stick Blush 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£8.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£8.99
Low Mid

A Natural Blush That Hydrates Your Skin

Do you want radiant cheeks, whilst you moisturising your skin at the same time? This blush stick does both with its smooth texture and oil-based formula that's ideal for tackling dry skin. Just be careful if you have acne, as vegetable oil can clog pores.


It's easy to blend and can be used to create a nice natural look, or a bold colour by layering it. There's lots of choice with seven shades to choose from, and It's great value for money too!

Summary

The right cream blush can add warmth and radiance to your complexion, whilst maintaining a dewy look for a youthful appearance. Whether you're looking for an oil-free blush, or a cream to powder rouge, if you follow our tips you'll be sure to find the best product for you!


Author: Rosa Fairfield

Top 5 Cream Blushers

No. 1: Bobbi BrownPot Rouge for Lips and Cheeks

No. 2: CliniqueChubby Stick Cheek

No. 3: Florence By MillsCheek Me Later Cream Blush

No. 4: Fenty BeautyCheeks Out Freestyle Cream Blush

No. 5: Max FactorMiracle Touch Creamy Blusher

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

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