We've Tested Hundreds of Blushers—These 13 Are in a League of Their Own

When it comes to makeup, we’re always on the hunt for the best blushers that give us that oh-so-covetable wash of colour and lit-from-within glow.

Indeed, after concealing, contouring, and evening out skin tone, blush is always relied upon to bring back a natural flush, making us appear healthier, fresher and more radiant in the process. Still, in an industry inundated with so much innovation and constant new launches, it can be difficult to determine which blusher is best for you without spending hundreds on trial and error. Whilst there are plenty of TikTok viral blushes and trending products to keep us occupied, not all blushers are created equal, and many can leave you feeling let down.

Enter: Who What Wear UK’s beauty experts. Our editorial desk is usually one of the first in the country to receive new products before they hit the market, meaning that we’re always ahead of the curve when it comes to the latest and greatest blushers. It also means that our editors are a go-to source for makeup recommendations, whether it be fellow colleagues asking what gives the most dramatic results for an after-work cocktail event, or friends looking for something new for their everyday look.

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Social media has helped bring so much attention to this category of late, especially when you consider how many blushers have reached cult status. It’s helped make us aware of blush blindness, and that selecting the right blusher requires more than just choosing a colour that you like and running with it.

So, after round-tabling the idea with the team, we went to town testing, trialling and reviewing the best blushers across each category, skin tone and budget to separate the spectacular from the standard. We dabbed cream blushers into the apples of our cheeks to achieve that sought-after sun-kissed look, tapped liquid blushers across our cheekbones to find a natural lift, and discovered that shades like mauve blushers make great blushers for mature skin, and that those of us with oily complexions might need to top up with a powder blush throughout the day for maximum impact.

Ahead, we’ve taken the liberty of compiling the definitive and most comprehensive guide to the best blushers around. You’ll hear from Who What Wear UK editors on what they genuinely love the most about each of these products, along with expert application tips and advice from Chanel makeup artist Anna Payne.

Keep scrolling to see which 13 best blushers made our final shortlist and shop our favourites.

The Best Blushers of 2026, Tried and Tested

• Best Overall Blush: Merit Flush Balm, £26
• Best Cream Blush: Rhode Beauty Pocket Blush, £25
• Best Powder Blush: Dior Rosy Glow, £35
• Best Liquid Blush: Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush, £24
• Best Dewy Blush: Saie Dewy Blush, £22
• Best Matte Blush: Nars Blush, £36
• Best Luxury Blush: Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Blush Stick, £44
• Best Affordable Blush: Beauty Pie Supercheek, £13

1. Merit Beauty Flush Balm

Why we love it: Merit Flush Balm has a cult following that lives up to, if not exceeds, expectations of a subtle flush. It's truly one of the best blushers around.

Editor review: "Blusher is, without a doubt, my favourite product in my makeup bag, and my go-to right now is Merit Flush Balm," says Who What Wear UK's managing editor, Poppy Nash. "Chances are you’ve seen a lot of people rave about this little tub already, but I'm here to confirm that it really is very good," she adds. "I love that the product is buildable and pigmented without being cakey and that it also adds a lovely glow to my skin. It blends perfectly and is ideal for throwing in your handbag when you’re in a rush."

2. Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Luminous Powder Blush

Why we love it: Packed with long-lasting pigments that make your cheeks glisten for hours.

Editor review: "If you like your blushes highly pigmented and with a mermaid-like shimmer, then this long-lasting, super-soft powder from Rare Beauty is the one," says managing director Hannah Almassi. "I wear it on days when I want to bring out pretty, pinky tones in my makeup rather than a more neutral look. I enjoy the sparkle and think it's cute for a party or evening look," she adds.

3. Dior Backstage Rosy Glow

Why we love it: It uses advanced "colour reviver" technology to react to your skin's pH and moisture levels for long-wearing and custom colour payoff.

Editor review: "Dior's Rosy Glow blusher is one of my most-loved powder blushers ever," says beauty editor Eleanor Vousden. "I use the shade Cherry, an almost-neon pink, which I would normally never choose for myself. However, it was only after a makeup artist taught me that using a light layer of a bright blush can actually bestow a more realistic flush than more 'neutral' blush tones that I really understood just how good this colour is."

As for the formula, Eleanor says, "The powder is incredibly fine, so it blends seamlessly into the skin with virtually no effort from your makeup brush. Dior uses pH technology in these blushers, which makes the product react with your skin chemistry for a colour even more bespoke to your skin tone. I like to tap my makeup brush into the powder and lightly pat it onto my cheeks, which I find gives me a natural-looking flush. However, it's easily layered if you want more intensity."

4. Saie Dew Blush

Why we love it: For its silky texture that gives a just-pinched rush of colour to the cheeks.

Editor review: "Saie Dew Blush comes in eight different hues, and I opted for Spicy, which is described as a warm terracotta," says junior writer Brittany Davy. "The blush promises to leave cheeks with an effortless flush whilst brightening and hydrating the skin, and I'd say it definitely lives up to these claims. I have very dry skin, which means that even certain liquid blushers don't work for me. This, however, left my cheeks looking glowy and fresh. The only possible setback is that I didn't find it very pigmented, which might be a dealbreaker for some. However, if you're like me and prefer a much more pared-back makeup look as well as a natural and healthy-looking glow, I'd say give this a try."

5. Chanel Les Beiges Water-Fresh Blush

Why we love it: The formula's "progressive microfluidic technology" infuses it with micro-droplets of pigment for a super-sheer and fresh finish.

Editor review: "As a long-term fan of Chanel makeup, I adore how this fluid blush seamlessly glides onto the skin for a subtle boost of colour and moisture," says SEO writer, Ava Gilchrist. "I prefer my blush on the slightly tan side, which is why I chose the shade Light Peach, as it has an orange undertone that I feel corrects redness and gently contours my cheek area. The product has to be mixed on the back of your hand before dabbing it on, but the extra step is well worth it for a blusher that provides that understated Parisienne tint I aspire to have."

6. Nars Blush

Why we love it: An award-winning powder blush that has been a staple in makeup kits since it launched in the late '90s.

Editor review: "Nars Powder Blush has quickly become my go-to everyday blush," says graphic designer Emily Post. The powder is super light on my skin and blends easily, giving me the natural flush I’m looking for. It’s also buildable (with no caking), so I can boost the colour if I want to take my look from day to night," Emily notes. "When the time comes, I will certainly be restocking, which leads me to my one complaint: only a quarter of the blush colours are available as a refill, and this doesn't include my preferred shade, Behave."

7. Rhode Beauty Pocket Blush

Why we love it: Rhode's Pocket Blush has a satiny, diffused finish worthy of its virality.

Editor review: "This blusher hasn’t left my cheeks since it launched. I’ll admit that I didn’t have particularly high hopes for it, but the super-creamy texture has won me over and then some," says beauty director Shannon Lawlor. "The soft mauve pigment delivers the sort of flush you might expect after a deep sleep when your skin is well-rested, radiant and full of life. It blends in an instant, pleasing my lazy-girl nature, and gives skin a truly beautiful, dewy glow. Try it once and never look back."

8. Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush

Why we love it: It's earned a reputation for being one of the most pigmented and long-wearing liquid blushes on the market, and we also love that the formula is enhanced with skin-loving botanicals.

Editor review: "As a fan of more dewy makeup, I loved the look and feel of Rare Beauty's Soft Pinch Liquid Blush," says affiliates and special project manager Jerrylyn Saguiped. "I tried the shade Happy, a cooler pink tone which I typically wouldn't go for, but I was pleasantly surprised at how well it blended into my skin. A little definitely goes a long way with this blush; one small dab on each cheek is the perfect amount for a natural but still noticeable look," she says. For application, Jerrylyn "opted to blend this in with a brush, as I can imagine using your fingers might get a little messy. As well as being super pigmented, the formula has great staying power, and I didn't need to re-apply like I usually would with some of my other blushers," she adds.

9. Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Blush Stick

Why we love it: Packed with skin-loving ingredients and created by one of the most legendary celebrity makeup artists of all time. What's not to love?

Editor review: There's no shortage of celebrities who bill Westman Atelier's Baby Cheeks Blush Stick as one of the best blushers around. Now, our social media editor Megan Storey can also be counted as one of its devoted followers. "I’m a blush girl (and probably prone to a little blush blindness at times!), so I've tried a lot of products and love something really pigmented and creamy. Enter: Westman Atelier," Megan says. "This blush wins for me on so many counts. The packaging is slick (extra points for the magnetic closure), the formula is super creamy, and it’s really pigmented yet buildable. There’s a reason that Westman Atelier is hyped, and after trying this blush, I jumped straight on that bandwagon," she adds. Talk about love at first swipe.

10. Beauty Pie Supercheek Cream Blush

Why we love it: It has a pillowy-matte finish despite having a whipped-like texture.

Editor review: "For £13, I can’t sing the praises of this Beauty Pie blush any louder," says Lawlor. "I’m a lazy girl when it comes to makeup, and frankly, I hate spending time applying it. This stuff, however, makes blush application a total dream. It has been a mainstay in my makeup bag for years thanks to its melting texture. I just smoosh my finger into the pot and swipe it over the apples of my cheeks for a subtle watercolour-esque flush of radiance." As for coverage, Shannon says, "With a slightly glowing finish and barely-there pigment, it delivers the sort of result I’d expect from a product five times its price."

11. Milk Makeup Cooling Water Jelly Tint

Why we love it: Its jelly texture, cooling feel, fun shades and staying power. This is a great one for summer.

Editor review: "As far as blushers go, Milk Makeup's Cooling Water Jelly Tint has the most fun texture," says Vousden. "As the name suggests, this twist-up blush comes in a sheer jelly stick (and yes, it does wobble if you touch it!). It's a stain formula, so if you want a long-lasting pop of colour, this will last all day long," she notes.

A word of warning, however. "You don't get much playtime with blending," Eleanor adds. "As soon as it comes into contact with your skin, you have mere seconds to blend it out before it sets. I like to dab it on and immediately blend with a blusher brush, as it will stain your fingers if you use them to blend. The shades all lean on the bright side (so I'd recommend these for people who love blusher with a capital B), in an array of summery, popsicle hues, which are so fun to wear. I alternate between Chill (pictured), a bright cool-toned pink and Spritz, a sunny Aperol coral."

12. Ateh Jewel Beauty Blush Of Dreams

Why we love it: The formula is packed with nourishing and moisturising ingredients, and the shades are specifically designed to look great on everyone.

Editor review: "At last! A blush designed with darker skin tones in mind," says fashion editor Remy Farrell. "Not only is this creamy, blendable and long-lasting, but the highly pigmented shades sit perfectly on top of foundation or clean skin for a warm and vibrant pop of colour," she says. "Unlike some formulas that can be a little greasy and reduce to a shine, this holds a matte finish that stands up to daily wear without clogging pores and feeling too heavy."

13. Refy Cream Blush

Why we love it: Cream blushes often excel in either pigment or longevity, but Refy's formula manages to deliver both. The lightweight cream texture melts seamlessly into the skin, creating a natural-looking flush that feels modern and effortless rather than overly dewy or heavy.

Editor review: "This blush is beautifully pigmented, so I only need the smallest amount to create a fresh, rosy flush that instantly brightens my complexion," says freelance beauty editor Grace Day. "Despite being a cream formula, it doesn't slide around or fade away as the day goes on—in fact, I'm always impressed by how fresh it still looks when I catch my reflection hours later. The shade itself strikes that sweet spot between pink and rosy nude, making it incredibly wearable and flattering if you're very fair, as I am."

How We Tested the Best Blushers

Comprised of some of the most knowledgeable beauty editors and experts around, the Who What Wear UK team has tested and tried hundreds of blushers over the years that claim to be the best. To determine this for ourselves, however, we went through our makeup archives and tracked down cult favourites and new launches to identify the crème de la crème for making cheekbones pop and complexions flush.

After swatching, dabbing, blending and testing, we reviewed the best blushers based on price point, colour payoff, formula and finish. Looking for true mattes, fluid liquids and dreamy creams, we decided on these best blushers based on genuine love and how widely we recommend them.

How to Choose the Best Blusher

When choosing the best blusher for you, Chanel makeup artist Anna Payne recommends considering a few elements: "Your skin tone, type and desired makeup look. Fair skin tones can opt for a soft pink flush, whilst medium tones glow with warm corals and deeper skin tones can enhance their complexion with rich berry shades," she advises. In terms of your skin type and texture, Payne advises looking to cheek tints and balms for dry skin, as they "provide a dewy and hydrating finish", whilst those with oily skin may prefer "matte yet silky powder blushers for long-lasting wear."

Not sure what to look out for? We have you covered. "A high-quality blush should have good pigmentation, meaning it provides colour without being too sheer or overly intense," Payne says. "It should also be blendable and buildable, allowing for a natural flush or a more dramatic look." Ultimately, longevity is key. "Blush should last throughout the day without fading or becoming patchy," she adds.

"The formula and finish matter too; cream and liquid blushes should be smooth and non-greasy, whilst powders should be finely milled and not chalky. Lastly, a good blush should suit [your] skin type, with hydrating formulas for dry skin and oil-controlling options for oily skin."

Which Blush Is Best for a Natural Look?

Some shades give a more natural look than others, but if you just want to make the blush you already have at home work for you, Payne has some expert application tips. "For a natural blush look, cream or liquid blushes are typically best, as they provide a soft, dewy finish that mimics a natural flush of colour. Chanel No. 1 de Chanel Lip and Cheek Balm (£43) is a great option for this, offering a subtle, skin-like glow."

"Blend a cream blush with fingers," she says, before adding, "A fluffy brush gives powder formulas a seamless finish. Start by dabbing a small amount of blush on the apples of your cheeks, then blend gently upwards towards the temples, following the natural bone structure of your face," she says. "Make sure to blend well so the blush melts into your skin, creating a soft, flushed look. This approach gives you a subtle, naturally flushed appearance perfect for an everyday, fresh-faced makeup look."

If you're shopping for a specific blush to give you a more lit-from-within finish, Payne advises you to "pick a blush shade close to your natural flush—soft pinks, peachy shades or light rosy hues work well for most skin tones."

What Are the Differences Between Cream, Liquid and Powder Blush?

"Cream, liquid and powder blush differ in texture, finish and suitability for different skin types and makeup looks," Payne explains. "Cream blush has a thick, blendable texture with a dewy finish, making it ideal for dry or normal skin and fresh, glowy makeup. Liquid blush is lightweight and buildable, working well for all skin types, especially in natural or sun-kissed looks, though it dries quickly. Powder blush provides a matte or satin finish, best for oily or combination skin, and suits polished, full-glam styles."

And which format suits different makeup looks best? "For a dewy, fresh look, go for cream or liquid; for long-lasting wear, choose liquid; and for a matte, sculpted finish, stick with powder," Payne says.

What Are the Differences Between Matte and Dewy Blushers?

Of course, there's not just the formula to take into consideration, but the finish, too. The two most common are matte and dewy. "Matte blush has a shine-free, velvety finish, making it ideal for oily or combination skin, and it suits full-glam, sculpted or long-wear makeup looks," Payne explains. On the other hand, she says a dewy blush in "cream, liquid or luminous powder form gives a fresh, radiant glow—perfect for dry or normal skin and natural, 'no-makeup' or romantic styles."

How to Apply Blush Correctly

Once you've selected the best blush for you using our expert tips and tricks, it's time to apply. "Start by choosing the right formula and tool for your skin type," Payne says. "If you prefer a dewy, hydrating look, apply cream blush with your fingers or a damp sponge for seamless blending. For a sculpted look, focus on the apples of your cheeks and blend upwards, whilst for a more lifted appearance, apply slightly higher on the cheekbones. For a natural finish, use a powder blush with a fluffy brush for soft, buildable colour."

You never want to begin with a heavy hand or apply too vigorously to your cheeks. "Build the colour gradually for a soft flush or bolder look, and set with a light dusting of powder for longevity," says Payne. "A good trick is to always brush over the bridge of your nose to create a seamless look."

How to Make Your Blusher Last Longer

If you notice that your blusher begins to wear off over time, try Payne's tips to give your application further longevity. Firstly, ace your base. "Apply a long-lasting primer that helps lock makeup in place and control oil. Choose a foundation that suits your skin type, and set it with a translucent powder to mattify and ensure longevity," she says.

For extra staying power, Payne also recommends layering your blush. "Start with a cream or liquid blush for a base, then top it off with a matching powder blush to set it. This combination creates a more durable, long-lasting flush of colour. She explains that "powder blush formulas with good pigmentation or cream-to-powder blushes tend to stay put longer than liquid or cream [formulas]."

"These are more likely to adhere to the skin and last throughout the day," she adds. Lastly, Payne says you should set your look to last. "Lightly dust your cheeks with a setting powder after applying blush to help it stay in place. A makeup-setting spray can also lock everything in place and keep the blush from fading or smudging. By using long-lasting products, layering and setting your makeup, you can enjoy a vibrant blush that lasts all day."

Lastly, "Try not to touch your face throughout the day, as this can cause the blush to wear off faster," Payne concludes.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.