Growing up around makeup, I used to avoid using blush at all costs. My older sisters would try smothering me with pink powder and I would resist. My face was naturally rosy, as people would often tell me. As a middle schooler, I would intently cover my cheeks with concealer in an attempt to hide my rosacea. The older I get, however, the more fond I am of using blush. Instead of hiding my rosy cheeks, I actually emphasize them by using more blush than I’ve been given.  Over time I have become more advanced in makeup, developing a routine that I use almost every day. Blush creates a youthful glow, adding more color, life, and brightness to your look. It’s essential to use a blush product that holds up throughout the day while complimenting your skin. Here are three of my favorite blushes that I recommend to anyone who uses blush or is interested in trying it out. 

Baked Blush Milani  ($10.99)

Milani’s classic baked blush is both high quality and affordable. Actually sunbaked on Italian Terracotta, the carefully curated formula is beautifully pigmented and lasts all day. It comes in several different colors, complimenting a wide variety of skin tones. Different from other blushes, Milani has a slight reflective shimmer, acting partially as a highlighter. While I usually prefer creamier blushes, this powder blush has minimal fallout and revives any lost flush from previous layers of foundation or concealer without feeling cakey.  At a price of only $10.99, you can get this product at almost any beauty store or Amazon. 

Milk Makeup Lip + Cheek Cream Blush Stick ($22.00)

Milk’s amazing duo lip and cheek stick is perfect for everyday use, conveniently having multiple purposes when you are on the go. Milk is a sustainable beauty brand that is clean, vegan, and cruelty-free. The formula is extremely hydrating and creamy, adding a lightweight dewy feel to your look. This product seamlessly blends and looks natural, coming in 11 different shades. Additionally, the stick can be used as a nourishing lip balm. You can find this long-lasting blush at Sephora or Ulta for a price of $22.

Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush ($23.00)

Selena Gomez’s Rare Beauty makeup line which debuted in 2020 has received praise for its range of high-quality products, most notably the Soft Pinch Liquid Blush. This blush became highly popular over social media and rightfully so. You apply this blush by placing just a dot of product on each cheek. When I first tried this blush, I was doubtful of such a little amount going such a long way, but I was pleasantly surprised. The blush is vibrantly pigmented and holds up throughout the day, blending well with other layers of makeup and creating a natural glow. While 23 dollars for a tube of blush may be on the pricier side, the investment is truly worth it and is guaranteed to last a very long time.