Best Shimmer Blushes – High End and Drugstore Favorites
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Whether you’re new to the world of makeup or a seasoned beauty enthusiast, finding the perfect shimmer blush can be a game-changer for your makeup routine. A lovely shimmer blush is always great to have on hand, am I right?
In this blog post, I’ll be your guide to the top shimmer blushes I’ve ever tried, helping you achieve that luminous complexion with a bit of flush. I’ve got five high end options and five drugstore options, so there is something for every budget!
The Best High End Shimmer Blushes
Here are the best shimmer blushes that you can find at high end prices. For your convenience, I’ve linked them at multiple retailers. I’ve got four powder blushes and one cream blush to share.
Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush
This is not your ordinary blush – it’s like a little pot of magic for your cheeks. These blushes are so finely crafted with Photoluminescent Technology that they literally capture and scatter light, leaving your skin with this incredible, natural-looking glow. It does not emphasize fine lines and texture, and it looks so gorgeous on all skin types.
While this one is the priciest one in the bunch, it really is my holy grail. I love the shade Sublime Flush (it’s a gorgeous pink shade with a hint of gold and lilac) but there are a variety of shades to suit all skin tones.
This powder blush is a buildable formula, really easy to use, and it’s lasted me such a long time! This is definitely my top powder blush for mature skin.
bareMinerals GenNude Blonzer
This product is so fun and unique, because it is like a blush and a bronzer in one compact! Imagine getting that sun-kissed, just-got-back-from-vacation glow without ever stepping out into the sun. The bareMinerals Gen Nude Blonzer does just that. It’s like a magical concoction of blush and bronzer that effortlessly blends to give your cheeks a warm, radiant flush. I had to include this product in this post just because the shimmer texture is absolutely gorgeous, and it’s such a great “swipe it on and go” type of product.
The shade range in this product will work for all skin tones. Kiss of Pink will be great for fair skin tones, while Kiss of Copper will work on more tan skin. A little goes a long way and the natural glow it gives is just beautiful.
NARS Blush
This blog post wouldn’t be complete without mention of the classic and cult favorite Nars Blush. These have consistently been named some of the best blushes for years, and for good reason.
I know I’ve loved this blush formula for over ten years! There are a few shades in this product that do have a matte finish, but all of the shimmer shades are to die for.
They work on a wide range of skin tones and give a radiant finish. Of course, we have the classic “Orgasm” shade, which looks great on almost everyone, but I also highly recommend the shade Sin.
Too Faced Cloud Crush Blurring Blush
This blush is newer to my collection (and it’s a newer product in general), but it has quickly risen to the top of my favorite powder shimmer blushes I own.
I have the shade Golden Hour and I know it will look great on so many different skin tones and types, especially mature skin. It gives a gorgeous natural flush to the cheeks without looking too heavy.
This product comes in a “satin” and “matte” finish, and the “satin” finish is the one that has some shimmer to it. It is not chunky, nor does it emphasize texture. This powder formula is so luxurious and soft!
Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Highlighter Wand
I had to include a cream/liquid product in this blog post, and couldn’t help but share the iconic Charlotte Tilbury beauty wand! This product is technically a “highlighter” but the shades Pinkgasm and Peachgasm are beautiful shimmer liquid blushes that give the most amazing glow to the cheeks.
Yes, this is a pricey product, but they are a beautiful formula, and a makeup staple in so many makeup artists’ kits. It really is one of the best liquid blushes around.
Are there some color and formula dupes out there? Sure. But there’s nothing quite like the real thing, too.
The Best Drugstore Shimmer Blushes
Looking to save a little money? Let’s get to the best drugstore shimmer blushes! I guarantee you’ll find a blush you’ll love in this list!
Milani Baked Blush
What an iconic drugstore shimmer blush! I have this one in every single shade in my makeup collection, and they really are the best you’ll find at an affordable price.
My favorite shades are Bronzed Berry and Petal Primavera, although it seems the most popular shade is Luminoso. There is a shade in this product guaranteed to complement every makeup look you do.
This blush compact has a beautiful silky texture, and has been a best seller for years. Do not skip this one if you’re on the fence!
Essence Pure Nude Baked Blush
This baked blush from Essence is a newer launch (and one of my favorite drugstore launches of 2023)! This drugstore blush reminds me a lot of the Hourglass Ambient Lighting blushes, but at a much lower price point!
This blush offers a stunning, shimmery flush of color that gives your cheeks a radiant and healthy glow. Its finely milled formula makes it incredibly easy to blend, ensuring a seamless application. The best part? It’s under $6! Bananas.
The shade Shimmery Rose is really great for fair skin tones, and can even be used as a blush topper, but there is a shade that will work for everyone.
Flower Beauty Flower Pots Powder Blush
This shimmery powder blush is so underrated! The shade “Warm Hibiscus” is almost a dead on dupe for Nars Orgasm, as well. It comes in a satin and shimmer finish, and you will not be disappointed!
It has a really nice buildable coverage, so it’s easy to work with and not overdo. Flower Beauty is kind of hard to find within stores, so your best bet is to shop online.
e.l.f. Halo Glow Blush Beauty Wand
If you’re looking for a good drugstore liquid blush, this one is absolutely fabulous! It’s a new release from e.l.f., and I have been really impressed. The only thing I do not love is the packaging – it can get a bit messy. But the product is a really gorgeous formula that looks amazing on the cheeks.
Enriched with skin-loving ingredients like Squalane, this blush not only enhances your look but also provides a hydrating boost for a radiant finish. Perfect for achieving a fresh, dewy glow effortlessly.
Wet ‘n Wild MegaGlo Makeup Stick Blush
This is my absolute favorite drugstore stick blush! It comes in a natural finish, but also a shimmer finish. The cream formula of this product is so easy to use, and lovely on the skin! Best of all, the shade “Peach Bums” is a really great dupe to the Charlotte Tilbury “Peachgasm” shade (not a formula dupe, but a shade dupe).
This beautiful blush is not only gorgeous, but you really cannot beat that price of under $5!
In conclusion, shimmer blushes are the secret weapon in every makeup enthusiast’s arsenal for achieving that coveted luminous complexion. The options I’ve shared today offer a range of stunning shades and formulations, ensuring there’s a perfect fit for every skin tone and preference. Whether you opt for a subtle, sun-kissed glow or a bold, radiant flush, these shimmer blushes add a touch of magic to your makeup routine. So go ahead, embrace the shimmer, and let your cheeks sparkle with a natural, radiant glow that turns heads and boosts your confidence. Elevate your beauty game with these best shimmer blushes and let your inner radiance shine through!
