The Downsides Of Using A Cream Blush

Sales of cream and stick blush skyrocketed by a whopping 39% during 2021, with interest continuing to spill over into 2022. Consumer data shows that cream blush is popular among even the most natural makeup wearers, and has received swathes of praise for leaving users' skin with a glowy yet natural finish. Other consumers have also noted that cream blushes often feel lighter. However, there are some consumers who, despite liking the product, still find that it has downsides. If you haven't yet tried out a cream blush, you may have already seen or heard about it somewhere, particularly if you keep up with any beauty influencers.

Often compared to powder blush, cream blush instead boasts a creamier texture and formula. In comparison, powder blush tends to be lighter and comes with its own advantages. However, while it touts many benefits, there are also some downsides that you should consider before splashing your hard-earned cash on a new, glowy beauty product. Let's dissect some of the most common pain points and the downsides of cream blush.

Perhaps you have already tried this popular beauty product or are considering purchasing it for the first time. While it's easy to let excitement take a fierce hold, you should always consider a product's full nature before making your final decision.

The first thing to note about cream blush is that many consumers often comment that some products don't have a lot of "staying power," meaning that the product will fade and lose pigment on the skin quickly rather than lasting an entire day. According to Rude Cosmetics, this all boils down to the formula and texture of a cream blush, which makes it easier to remove from the skin in comparison to a powder.

However, a product's staying power is also influenced by an individual's skin type, and how well it works in harmony with a product. For example, the hydrating qualities of a cream blush will allow it to last longer on someone with dry skin, versus someone with oily skin. While there are arguments concerning which blush has more pigment, studies are lacking, so it's challenging to back up any solid claims made online. For now, you'll have to use your own best judgment to see what products work best with your skin. 

If you don't know much about makeup application, then you may find that a cream blush can be hard to blend into your skin alongside the rest of your products. This mishap usually happens for one of two reasons: you've applied your cream blush over your foundation that has been set, or two, your product is slightly cold.

If your product is slightly cold, it will affect how it blends onto your skin. To warm it up and get it ready for application, professional makeup artist Kasey Spickard recommends "swirling it onto the back of your hand" (via Makeup.com). This technique should help it to apply and blend more easily onto your skin.

Now onto the next issue; blending your foundation and blush together. When blending your cream blush with your foundation, you should "apply it over foundation before you set the look with powder," celebrity makeup artist Fiona Stiles tells Self. If you don't wear foundation, then just apply cream blush onto your skin. Using this technique should help combat any blending difficulties that you're facing. 

This downside of cream blush largely depends on your skin type. If you have oily skin, then a cream blush may not last as long on your skin, explains Dallas-based makeup artist Penny Sadler (via Obsessed Magazine). So, if you have oily skin and were hoping that your cream blush would last all day, it could be a challenge.

In addition, as the product has a heavier, creamier formula, that usually consists of oils, it may contribute to clogged pores on your skin. If you have tried other similar products and experienced breakouts, then cream blush may also produce similar results. However, people with dry skin can experience this too. To start, test it to see if the product works with your skin.

Instead, powder blush is a better option for those with oily skin, as the light and dry formula helps to absorb any excess oil on your skin. If you opt for a cream blush, make sure you only buy non-comedogenic formulas. These formulas help to prevent the clogging of your pores. If you're unsure where to start, take a look online or ask an in-store worker at your chosen shop.

Naturally, you want your makeup products to last as long as possible, especially if you spent a lot of money on them. However, some cosmetic products don't last as long as others, and unfortunately, cream blush is one of the items that falls into this category. The downside of this product, when compared to powder, is that "blush creams typically have a shorter shelf life," explains the director of Kevyn Aucoin Beauty, Nick Lujan (via Byrdie). This means that your cream blush likely won't last as long as a powder product. While this is frustrating, it's definitely a good excuse to rock that much-loved flushed-cheek look. But why does shelf life even matter? 

The typical shelf life for a cream blush usually sits anywhere between the six to 12 month mark. After this, consider tossing it away. Once a product passes the expiry date shown it usually begins to decline in quality and may not work as well as it did when you first purchased it. After this time, harmful bacteria may even begin to form, especially for products that come into contact with your fingers, such as creams. This build-up could lead to irritation and even put you at risk of infections.

Another downside to cream blush is that it requires some layering to build up a "fuller" look, that provides a larger burst of vibrant color. While many makeup lovers simply adore the natural glow that a cream blush can give them, the added "punch" may be lacking for others. For those who want to opt for a heavier look with an added pop, then this product may take some working with and getting used to. However, that's not to say that it can't be achieved, as it definitely can!

In addition, you may also find that you require lots of regular "touch-ups" throughout the day as the product wears off. This downside will be particularly applicable to those who want to maintain a bold look throughout the day. For some makeup users, this may be a frustrating process, especially if you want to sport a look during your busy daytime schedule. In these instances, powder blush may come in handier.