Powder blush has truly stood the test of time – having paved the way for its liquid and cream counterparts to take centre stage. An Instagram account ‘Data, But Make It Fashion’ pulled 891 articles referencing blush type in 2024 and ran a sentiment analysis to compare the popularity of liquid and powder blush. The results revealed that powder blush is 79 per cent more popular than liquid blushes this year. That said, while the liquid and cream variants are ever so popular, courtesy of the Rhode vs. Rare blush battle, but the humble powder blush has reigned supreme this year.
Cream vs. Powder Blush
Although both cream and powder blushes offer a similar pay-off – a perpetual flushed look – there are subtle differences to note when using the two.
Pigment
Cream and liquid blushes tend to be more pigmented than their powder counterpart. And while this may sound like a good thing, over-pigmented formulas can cause a severe case of blush-blindness among makeup wearers. A little too much of either could leave ample colour on the cheeks, giving a jarring appearance. On the other hand, a powder blush is easier to manage and build.
Formulation
Sure, cream and liquid blushes are moisturising, but this could mean disaster for oily skin types. Conversely, a powder blush offers a matte finish, soaking up excess oil and sebum while adding a dash of colour to the skin. Even if you have dry skin, you might want to set your blush with a powdered variant after using a cream formula.
Durability
A cream blush sets quickly and tends to last longer than a powder formula. While powder blushes often wither away as the day progresses, when applied over a cream blush, they offer a look that has the potential to last all day long.
Disclaimer: These differences don’t necessarily make powder blushes better than cream, and vice versa. However, one would want to set their blush look with a powder variant for extended wearability; it’s the same as setting your base with a compact powder.
So, let’s jump right into the 10 best powder blushes to achieve a Sabrina Carpenter-like flushed look.
