Why the blush balm is a must-have for every makeup bag

Are you someone who wouldn’t normally touch blush with a barge pole? Do you want to give your cheeks a healthy glow but are worried that innovative, new formulas will disappoint by performing in exactly the same way as dated powdered and liquid blushers? Yes, I’m referring to those eye-catching palette and tube options that turn out to be way too pigmented, hard to accurately place on the cheeks and even harder to diffuse. Breathe out, because the Korean-influenced blush balm is one of those rare smooth operators that significantly lowers the error stakes when it comes to crafting the perfect, naturally flushed look - every time.

The blush balm is in vogue. This small selection includes a Love Bite blush balm and So Smitten Blush Sticks, both by PLouise.

If you’ve been criss-crossing blush contenders and have yet to find the holy grail product you have been searching for, this deep dive into the benefits of the blush balm will be a true eye-opener. Think of gorgeous, fully diffused cheeks that defy the art of makeup application to, honestly, convince everyone you were simply born flawless. In this feature, I will explain how I first came across a cheek balm, why it made me a die-hard convert and what it’s done for my routine and complexion.

First, a little bit about the balm’s place in the current makeup market.

A newcomer to makeup collections, the blush balm is on the rise and rise. In fact, this trending product is absolutely everywhere at the moment. It’s an in-yer-face ‘new launch’ for big-name brands as well as thriving indies. More and more brands are releasing them, including those not specifically known to lean towards Asian formulas. Why? Because what this product represents is more than a passing trend. 

The crux of its success lies in its texture and ingredients. So, if you want to hop aboard the style train and cultivate your look to match the glowy, youthful aesthetic that dominates the makeup scene right now, keep reading!

My introduction to the blush balm

To be clear, I struggle with blush application. So much so that I’ve all but given up on powdered formulas. It’s too easy to overload a brush and then find the pigment extremely difficult to blend out. What starts off as an attempt to give my face a healthy hint of colour veers down the road of… disaster. Trust me, a blob of nude pink has zero subtlety when the edges don’t diffuse. This is why, in recent years, I’ve largely stuck to cream formulas. As well as being easier to diffuse, they tie in nicely with the glowy complexion trend that shows no sign of falling out of favour any time soon.

While I was so deeply entrenched in my passion for the cream blush, I wasn’t necessarily looking for an alternative. Enter an impulse purchase that just so happened to include a trio of blush balms. I’m referring to the Love Bites collection from PLouise. My pack of three cheek balms (which can also be used on the lips and eyes) came with the Ultimate Romance Collection, launched for Valentine’s Day. I was swayed to part with £150 for the brand’s newly launched cherry skincare products, two peach skincare and makeup collections, a nude makeup set and super cute Bad Bitch Energy lava lamp style lip oils in an even cuter box bag. 

Of all those fab products, which one do I use every single day? My Love Bite! Note the singular, not plural there. Before trying one of the balms, I shared the pack out. I gifted one to my daughter and one to my granddaughter. I want to kick myself now!

A subtle, nude blush balm from PLouise's Love Bites Collection. This one is my go-to - it delivers a natural finish.

I entered the rarest of places, Blush Heaven, from day one of using my balm. Firstly, because no applicators are needed. You simply swipe or tap the balm on your preferred placement points and then diffuse with your fingers. It’s so quick and easy. The formula is light but creamy and effortless to work with. I haven’t had a single ‘bad blush day’ since switching to this product. It looks natural on the skin and lasts all day.

What I especially love is the finish. I head out the door to work knowing I’m not going to be mistaken for a clown.

I note that PLouise has gone on to launch So Smitten Blush Sticks that are made with the same no-fuss formula. Thankfully, I’m a Budget Box babe so I got a pack of three with last month’s subscription. Phew! Right when my Love Bite is wearing down.

The true clincher, for me, is that a balm formula is versatile. You can use a blush balm anywhere on your face. For a co-ordinated look, it’s the real deal. It’s also handy for travel; just one, small product can create an entire look. So, if you prefer to travel light, it’s a must-have. Another big plus, for me, is that many of the shades deliver a hybrid blush/bronzer payoff that negates the need for a second product.

Unlike powdered blush, this is a cheek product that doesn't feel dry on the skin. It's hydrating and luminous.

Budget blush balm launches

I’ve already mentioned balms offered by PLouise. The Love Bites trio, available in a choice of 6 shade ranges, retails at £18 but, at the time of writing this, was on offer for £12. The So Smitten Blush Sticks cost £25. 

Other brands currently selling the blush balm include:

• Trouble Maker Jinkie Stick, available in four shades and priced £4.

• Made By Mitchell Blursh Balm, various shades, priced £14.

• Profusion Cosmetics Blush Alchemy Cheek Balm, priced £4.

• Collection Cosmetics Glow Sticks, £4.99.

• MCo Beauty Baby Face multi-use cream stick, various shades, £6.

• MOYOU London Blush Balm, £12.49.

• Clinique Chubby Stick, £20.80.

• About-face Cheek Freak blush balm, £10.80.

• MUA Makeup Academy Beauty Balm, £4.

• Revolution Fast Base Blush Stick, £4.50.

*Prices correct at the time of publishing.

So Smitten Blush sticks come in a pack of three and retail at £25.

What makes the blush balm truly different?

Unlike powdered and liquid blushers, the blush balm melts on the skin, making it effortless to blend out. It also boasts skincare ingredients, such as natural seed oils and waxes, so think of it as a friend with benefits! I should point out that, in comparison, a powder blusher is designed to simply sit on top of the skin - a nightmare if you are trying to avoid products that settle into pores, flaky skin and fine lines. 

If you're tired of making mistakes with blush, the balm promises error-free application - with nothing more required than clean fingers. The fool-proof formula renders it ideal for makeup beginners as well as experts who want to save time. Unlike liquid blusher, a balm doesn’t dry down and is never patchy.

Because a balm is formulated with hydrating ingredients, it’s perfect for those with dry, mature and even normal skin types. The problem with the powdered alternative is that it clings to dry patches and can over-emphasise poor skin texture. It can also look very dull on the skin, if it doesn’t include a bit of shimmer.

For on-the-go use, the balm is the clear winner. Who wants to have to pack a brush with powder or risk a mess with liquid blush?

Minimal blending - a swatch of the deepest So Smitten blush shade and (further down the arm) what it quickly blends out to. Notice how natural it looks?

What’s the right blush formula for you?

I often get asked this question, so here’s a complete breakdown of who should use which type of blush - by skin type.

While I prefer to use a balm, there may be a better product out there for you.

Powder Blush:

• Best for: Oily skin types, setting makeup, long-lasting matte looks, or for very controlled, precise application (if you’ve got the skills required).

• Note: Powder makeup products can look chalky, less natural and emphasise texture or dryness.

Liquid Blush:

• Best for: Those looking for high pigmentation, long-wearing colour, layering underneath powder for maximum longevity, or a dewy look with a faster drying time.

• Note: Many liquid blushes have a high pigment payoff which can be intimidating if you are a makeup beginner. It’s also unforgiving if you make a mistake. This type of blush requires fast blending because it dries quickly and can sometimes disturb foundation underneath.

Application tips for blush balm

• Tools: Apply it with your fingers if you want a fully diffused, sheer finish. Alternatively, you can use a stippling brush (for precision and building colour) or a beauty sponge.

• Technique: A tap and press motion is better than swiping, especially over foundation.

• Placement: Use it on the cheeks, lips, and even a light wash on the eyelids for a quick, monochromatic look.

In conclusion, the blush balm is the ultimate choice for modern, no-faff makeup application. It’s perfect for busy people who want to look their absolute best with minimal effort.

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