13 Best Drugstore Blushes to Achieve Beautiful, Rosy Cheeks

Written by Sayantani Deb, Makeup & Beauty Writer
Updated on Feb 07, 2024
best drugstore blushes
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A blusher is an essential part of any makeup routine as it adds a pop of color to your cheeks and helps you achieve a fresh, youthful, look. With a wide range of colors and formulas, the best drugstore blushes offer an affordable way to experiment with different shades and textures. Our contributor, a certified makeup artist, Maya Adivi, explains here the purpose of using drugstore blush. She says, “A drugstore blush is an affordable product for adding a bit of flush and color to the cheeks, and creating a balanced, healthy makeup look.”

Blushes are primarily used to add a natural flush of color to the cheeks, giving the face a healthy and vibrant look. It can be used to enhance and define the cheekbones or provide an overall warmth to the complexion. By applying blush to the natural contours of the cheeks, you can create a more sculpted and defined look.

Many affordable blushes offer excellent color payoff and pigmentation. You can find drugstore brands or budget-friendly options that provide vibrant and buildable shades, allowing you to achieve the desired intensity with a lighter or heavier application. Several drugstore brands or affordable makeup lines offer excellent quality products at a fraction of the cost of high-end brands. 

However, you don't need to break the bank to get a luxury product to get that dreamy look you wish to have. Here, we will explore some of the best drugstore products worth trying out that go easy on your pocket. Keep reading to discover some amazing drugstore blush options.

13 Best Drugstore Blushes

Milani Baked Blush is the ultimate beauty essential for achieving a radiant, glowing complexion. Its shade, Luminoso, is a peachy-pink color — perfect for adding warmth and dimension to your cheeks and enhancing your natural beauty with just a few swipes. It is specially formulated with a unique blend of rich pigments that deliver a natural-looking flush to your cheeks. It is perfect for all skin types, and its long-lasting formula ensures that your cheeks stay looking fresh and glowing all day long.The silky-smooth texture of the formula glides on effortlessly, blending seamlessly into your skin for a radiant finish.

Pros
  • Vegan
  • Cruelty-free
  • Climate-pledge friendly
  • Highly pigmented
  • Buildable
  • Comprises a mirror and mini blush
Cons
  • Not long-lasting
  • Poor Packaging
  • Best Multi-tasking

    MAYBELLINE NEW YORK FIT me BLUSH - Nude

    MAYBELLINE NEW YORK FIT me BLUSH - Nude
  • You can get the perfect flush of color with this drugstore blush from Maybelline New York. This blush is specially designed to complement every skin tone and texture, ensuring a flawless finish every time. With a silky smooth texture, it glides on smoothly and blends effortlessly, giving you a natural flush. The lightweight formula can help you to achieve your desired level of intensity — ideal for those who prefer a subtle pop of color on their cheeks. The compact packaging makes it easy to take with you on the go, so you can touch up your makeup anytime, anywhere.

    Pros
    • No cakey or patchy look
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Allergy-tested
    • Buildable
    • Easy to use
    • Pocket-friendly
    Cons
    • Bulky packaging
    • Not for all skin tones
  • Best Daily Wear

    COVERGIRL CHEEKERS - Classic Pink

    COVERGIRL CHEEKERS - Classic Pink
  • Covergirl Cheekers is one of the best drugstore blushes that will add a healthy pop of color to your cheeks. This high-quality blush comes in a variety of shades that beautifully complement any skin tone to give them a radiant look. Its lightweight formula blends seamlessly onto your skin, ensuring you get a smooth and even application every time. It will allow you to create the perfect amount of color intensity. Its silky texture feels luxuriously comfortable on your skin, leaving you with a fresh and luminous complexion.

    Pros
    • Skin-loving ingredients
    • Long-lasting
    • Healthy look
    • Highly pigmented
    • Lightweight formula
    • Perfect for everyday wear
    Cons
    • Difficult to apply
    • Not suitable for all skin tones
  • Best Budget-friendly

    wet n wild Color Icon Blush - Pinch Me Pink

    wet n wild Color Icon Blush - Pinch Me Pink
  • The gorgeous shade Pink Me Pink of this blush by wet n wild is perfect to add some color to your cheeks. This highly-pigmented blush powder is designed to give you a natural, radiant glow that lasts all day. The silky-smooth formula blends effortlessly onto your skin, providing buildable coverage that allows you to achieve the perfect amount of color. The compact size makes it easy to carry with you on the go, so you can touch up your look whenever you need it.

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Gluten-free
    • Full range of colors
    • Not too sticky
    • Long-lasting effect
    • Efficient packaging
    Cons
    • Not suitable for all skin types
    • Does not blend completely
  • Best Staying Power

    L'OREAL PARIS true match super-blendable blush - Tender Rose

    L'OREAL PARIS true match super-blendable blush - Tender Rose
  • This blush by L’oreal Paris is the perfect addition to your makeup kit for a natural and radiant look. This high-quality blush is expertly formulated to blend seamlessly with your skin tone, providing a flawless and long-lasting finish. With a silky texture, it glides smoothly on your cheeks, giving you a buildable coverage. This true match blush matches your skin tone, making it suitable for all skin types. Available in a range of shades, this super-blendable blush is ideal for adding a pop of color to your cheeks, and giving your face a youthful touch.

    Pros
    • Easy to apply
    • Blends like a breeze
    • Lightweight
    • Good staying power
    • Oil-free
    Cons
    • Too light or dark
    • Not for sensitive skin
  • Best Hypoallergenic

    PHYSICIANS FORMULA Blush - Natural

    PHYSICIANS FORMULA Blush - Natural
  • Infused with natural plant extracts, this blush not only gives your cheeks a gorgeous flush of color but also helps to uplift your spirits and boost your mood. The formula contains a blend of happy boosters, including mood-enhancing plant extracts like euphoryl, which stimulate the production of endorphins, and natural mineral pigments that provide a luminous glow. The silky smooth texture blends seamlessly onto the skin, delivering a long-lasting, radiant finish that will leave you feeling confident and happy all day long. The compact design makes it easy to carry in your purse or makeup bag, so you can touch up your look anytime, anywhere.

    Pros
    • Dermatologist-approved
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Hypoallergenic
    • Sweet, indulgent fragrance
    • Ultra-soft texture
    • Blendable
    Cons
    • Not sustainable
    • Only works for lighter skin tones
  • Best Travel-friendly

    Honest Beauty 2-in-1 Creme Cheek Blush + Lip Color - Rose Pink

    Honest Beauty 2-in-1 Creme Cheek Blush + Lip Color - Rose Pink
  • This multi-tasking beauty product is perfect for those who are always on the go and want to simplify their beauty routine. The formula is infused with nourishing ingredients like avocado oil and shea butter, ensuring that your skin stays hydrated and healthy-looking. Its creamy texture blends seamlessly onto the skin, leaving a beautiful flush of color that lasts nearly all day. The sweet scent of violet provides a feeling of joy each time you apply. Happy skin is a registered mark of provital in Spain. With a range of shades to choose from in this product such as the Rose Pink shade, you can easily find the perfect match for your skin tone.

    Pros
    • Highly pigmented
    • Cruelty-free
    • Moisturizing formula
    • Long-lasting
    • Easy to blend
    • Travel-friendly
    Cons
    • Not waterproof
    • Limited shade range
  • Best For All Skin Type

    e.l.f. Primer-Infused Blush - Always Rosy

    e.l.f. Primer-Infused Blush - Always Rosy
  • This delightful pink blush in the shade Always Rosy by e.l.f. is designed to provide a long-lasting, natural-looking flush to your cheeks. Infused with skin-loving ingredients such as vitamin E, jojoba, and aloe, this blush glides on smoothly and blends effortlessly for a flawless finish. The primer-infused formula ensures your blush stays put all day, without fading or smudging. Available in a variety of shades to complement any skin tone, this blush is a must-have for achieving a radiant, healthy-looking complexion.

    Pros
    • Versatile
    • Non-messy application
    • Great for all skin types
    • Luminous finish
    • Create a unique look
    • Travel-friendly
    Cons
    • Not for light complexion
    • Not highly pigmented
  • Best Range of Shades

    NYX Professional Makeup Powder Blush - Pinched

    NYX Professional Makeup Powder Blush - Pinched
  • With a silky smooth texture, this pink powder blush, in the shade Pinched is easy to apply and blends seamlessly onto your skin for a flawless, long-lasting finish. The product is also available in other shades — from soft pinks to deep berries — perfect for any skin tone or occasion. Whether you're going for a natural daytime look or a dramatic nighttime look, this blush is a must-have for achieving a beautiful, healthy-looking complexion.

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Buildable
    • Blendable
    • Highly pigmented
    • Long-lasting
    • Portable
    Cons
    • Smaller size
    • Poor packaging
  • Best Easy To Apply

    BURT’S BEES BLUSH - Shy Pink

    BURT’S BEES BLUSH - Shy Pink
  • Made with natural ingredients and is free from harmful chemicals, providing a healthy and radiant glow to your skin. The added vitamin E nourishes and protects your skin while giving you beautiful, rosy cheeks in the shade Shy Pink. Its lightweight and silky texture makes it easy to blend and build up — great for any makeup look. The compact size makes it perfect for on-the-go touch-ups, whether you're at work or on vacation. It is available in a range of shades suitable for all skin tones.

    Pros
    • Versatile
    • Non-greasy
    • Highly pigmented
    • Nourishing ingredients
    • Applies smoothly
    • Blends easily
    Cons
    • Not long-lasting
    • High price
  • REVLON PHOTOREADY INSTA-BLUSH - Berry Kiss

    REVLON PHOTOREADY INSTA-BLUSH - Berry Kiss
  • This innovative blush formula is designed to blend seamlessly into your skin for a beautiful and radiant finish. With its easy-to-use stick applicator, you can apply the blush precisely and effortlessly on your cheeks, giving you a flawless finish. The creamy, lightweight formula is buildable and long-lasting, ensuring that your blush stays put for hours. 

    Adding on, it comes in a variety of shades that complement every skin tone, making it suitable for all skin types. Whether you're going for a subtle daytime look or a bold nighttime glam, the Revlon Photoready Insta-Blush will give you the perfect pop of color for any occasion.

    Pros
    • Long-lasting
    • Non-greasy
    • Lightweight
    • Easy to blend
    • Natural finish
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Limited shades
    • Not perfect for all
  • RIMMEL LONDON MAXI BLUSH - Wild Card

    RIMMEL LONDON MAXI BLUSH - Wild Card
  • Rimmel London Maxi Blush provides a stunning pop of color to your cheeks, with a long-lasting formula that will keep you looking fresh all day. The smooth texture of this blush blends effortlessly, giving you a natural-looking glow that enhances your complexion. The compact design of this drugstore blush makes it easy to carry while traveling, so you can touch up your makeup wherever you are. With a range of shades available, there is a perfect match for every skin tone.

    Pros
    • Lightweight
    • Highly pigmented
    • Buildable consistency
    • Can be used easily
    • Suitable for all skin tones
    Cons
    • Poor packaging
    • A bit glittery
  • Neutrogena healthy skin blush - Rosy

    Neutrogena healthy skin blush - Rosy
  • You can experience the transformative power of the perfect blush by using this blush from Neutrogena. This illuminating pigmented blush in the shade Rosy is enriched with vitamin C and botanical conditioners that work harmoniously to improve the texture and appearance of your skin. The silky smooth formula blends effortlessly, leaving a natural-looking flush of color on your cheeks. The compact design makes it easy to carry it anywhere, so you can touch up your look throughout the day.

    Pros
    • Dermatologist-tested
    • Lightweight
    • Non-greasy
    • Blendable
    • Buildable
    • Suitable for a beginner
    Cons
    • Not highly pigmented
    • Poor packaging

    Now that you’ve seen our product recommendations for the best drugstore blushes, let us see the following buying guide and steps to use to shop wisely and make the best of the product.

    How to Select a Drugstore Blush?

    Here we will walk you through how to choose the best drugstore blush for your needs.

    Skin Type: Before you start to shop around for drugstore blushes, it's important to identify your skin type. If you have oily skin, you should opt for a blush that has a matte finish and is oil-free. This will help to control shine and keep your makeup in place throughout the day. If you have dry skin, a cream blush is a better option as it will add moisture to your skin and give you a luminous glow. 

    Skin Tone: Another important factor to consider when choosing drugstore blushes is your skin tone. If you have fair skin, go for a light pink or peachy blush to add a subtle flush to your cheeks. If you have medium skin, try a coral or rosy pink blush to brighten up your complexion. If you have dark skin, opt for a deeper shade of blush such as a berry or burgundy to complement your skin tone. 

    Formula: Drugstore blushes come in various formulas such as powder, cream, and liquid. Powder blushes are the most common and are easy to apply. They come in a wide range of shades and finishes, making them ideal for all skin types. Cream blushes are best for dry skin as they offer a more natural finish and add moisture to the skin. Liquid blushes are great for a dewy, natural look, but they can be tricky to apply, so make sure to use a light hand. 

    Patch Test: Before purchasing a drugstore blush, it's important to test it on your skin. Swatch the blush on your wrist or the back of your hand to see how it looks against your skin. If possible, try on the blush in natural light to get a better idea of how it will look on your face.

    With the right blush, you can achieve a natural, healthy-looking glow that enhances your natural beauty.

    Drugstore blushes have come a long way in terms of quality, shade range, and longevity. With so many options available, from cream to powder formulas, there is something for everyone. Whether you're a makeup beginner or a seasoned pro, the best drugstore blushes are a great addition to any makeup collection. They offer a perfect solution for achieving a healthy, natural-looking flush that can brighten up your complexion and complete any makeup look without breaking the bank. So next time you're in the market for a new blush, consider picking up a drugstore option and discover the amazing value they have to offer.

    Contributor: Maya Adivi, Certified Makeup artist, Click here for blog

    FAQ's

    What makes drugstore blushes different from high-end brands?
    High-end brands often boast luxurious packaging, long-lasting wear, and high pigmentation, drugstore blushes provide affordability, accessibility, and a wide range of shades that cater to a variety of skin tones. Ultimately, the choice between drugstore and high-end blushes comes down to personal preference and budget, but it's clear that drugstore blushes can hold their own against their more expensive counterparts.
    Are drugstore blushes of good quality?
    Drugstore blushes can be of good quality and provide excellent results. Many drugstore brands have stepped up their game in terms of formulation, pigmentation, and longevity. However, it is important to do your research and read reviews before purchasing a drugstore blush.
    Can drugstore blushes be long-lasting?
    Drugstore blushes can definitely be long-lasting if you know how to choose the right formula and apply it correctly. Look for blushes with long-wear claims, buildable pigmentation, and a blendable texture. Additionally, use a primer, set your makeup with a setting spray, and touch up throughout the day if necessary.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    As someone who loves a stunning makeup look, our makeup expert Sayantani, always carries a blush in her purse. She suggests using a blush shade that compliments your skin tone and skin type and has a lightweight formula. She has done a patch test of all these products, tested their quality, and then curated this list of drugstore blushes that can help you achieve rosy cheeks. e.l.f. Primer-Infused Blush - Always Rosy is a blush she swears by as it is suitable for all skin types and gives a luminous finish. 

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Sayantani Deb
    Makeup & Beauty Writer

    Sayantani is a certified hair and makeup professional turned writer with 2+ years of experience in the same genre. Ap More