The 5 Best Drugstore Blushes That Might be Better Than High-End Picks
Beauty lovers know that blush is more than just a pop of color—it’s the secret sauce for a radiant, healthy-looking complexion. A good blush can wake up tired skin, sculpt cheekbones, and tie your whole makeup look together with a single sweep. And guess what? You don’t need to shell out $40 for that lit-from-within glow.
Drugstore beauty aisles are full of affordable blush gems that deliver major pigment, buttery textures, and long-lasting wear. From silky powders to creamy sticks and radiant liquids, there’s a drugstore blush out there to suit every skin type, tone, and makeup vibe. But with so many options on the shelves, it can be tough to know which ones are really worth the swipe.
That’s why we put some of the best-selling and most-hyped drugstore blushes to the test. We wore them in different weather, under different foundations, and even during full 10-hour days to see how they held up. Plus, we chatted with pro makeup artists to get their take on what makes a drugstore blush a true winner.
Ready to add some color to your cheeks, without draining your wallet? Here are the 5 best drugstore blushes that are totally worth the hype.
Best Picks
1. Milani Baked Blush
Milani’s Baked Blush is basically iconic at this point. Beauty lovers have been raving about it for years, and honestly, it still holds up. The baked formula gives it a silky, blendable texture that glides onto the skin like a dream. It’s not just about color—there’s a subtle shimmer in there that catches the light just enough to give your skin a natural-looking radiance.
We especially love how buildable it is. One layer gives a sheer wash of color, perfect for no-makeup makeup days, but you can easily amp it up for more drama. “Luminoso” is a crowd favorite for a reason—it flatters almost every skin tone and brings instant life to your cheeks.
2. e.l.f. Putty Blush
If you’re dipping your toes into the cream blush world, the e.l.f. Putty Blush is a no-brainer. It has a unique cream-to-powder formula that feels lightweight and blends like butter. The texture starts out creamy but sets to a soft, almost matte finish—perfect for oily or combination skin.
It’s super beginner-friendly, too. You don’t need to be a blending wizard to get this looking good on your cheeks. The color payoff is solid but not overpowering, so you won’t end up looking like you got slapped by color. Plus, at under $10, it’s one of the best beauty steals around.
3. NYX Sweet Cheeks Soft Cheek Tint
If you’re into the “clean girl aesthetic” or just love a dewy cheek, NYX’s Sweet Cheeks Soft Cheek Tint is going to be your new obsession. This liquid blush comes with a doe-foot applicator, making it super easy to dab and blend on the go. It’s sheer but buildable and gives that just-pinched flush that looks like you’ve been living your best, most hydrated life.
What makes this one special is its skincare-infused formula. It’s lightweight and hydrating, which makes it a dream for dry or mature skin. It stays put all day without looking patchy or sinking into fine lines.
4. Maybelline Fit Me Blush
Sometimes you just want a no-fuss, classic blush that works with everything. That’s where Maybelline’s Fit Me Blush comes in. This powder blush is silky, subtle, and oh-so-blendable. It gives your cheeks that “I just went for a brisk walk” look without screaming I’m wearing blush!
It’s perfect for work, school, or any time you want to look put-together but not overly done. The shade range is surprisingly solid, and the formula is dermatologist-tested and non-comedogenic—ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
5. L'Oréal Paris Infallible 24HR Fresh Wear Soft Matte Blush
Got a wedding, party, or all-day event coming up? Reach for L’Oréal’s Infallible Soft Matte Blush. It’s designed to last for up to 24 hours (yep, really), and we can confirm—it doesn’t budge. Even after a sweaty summer day and hours of wear, this blush stayed vibrant and smooth.
Despite the matte finish, the formula feels super lightweight and non-drying. It blends easily without clinging to texture or dry patches. And it’s highly pigmented, so a little goes a long way—be sure to tap off excess product before applying!
Are drugstore blushes as good as high-end brands?
Yes—more than ever. Thanks to improvements in formulas and pigment technology, many drugstore blushes now offer color payoff, blendability, and longevity that rival high-end options. Brands like e.l.f., NYX, and L’Oréal have seriously stepped up their game.
Which drugstore blush lasts the longest?
The L’Oréal Infallible 24HR Fresh Wear Soft Matte Blush is designed for all-day wear and really delivers. It’s sweat-resistant, fade-proof, and won’t budge—even on oily skin or during hot, humid days.
What kind of blush is best for oily skin?
If you have oily skin, opt for a matte powder blush. It helps control shine and stays in place longer. Both Maybelline Fit Me Blush and L’Oréal Infallible Soft Matte Blush are great choices.
How do I choose the right blush color for my skin tone?
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
Fair Skin: Go for soft pinks, peaches, or cool-toned shades.
Medium Skin: Coral, rose, and mauve shades work beautifully.
Olive Skin: Warm apricots and deep peaches enhance golden undertones.
Dark Skin: Bold shades like berry, brick red, and bright tangerine pop best.
When in doubt, test a shade that mimics the natural flush you get after working out or being in the sun.
Can I apply blush without foundation?
Absolutely! Blush looks great on bare skin, especially cream or liquid formulas. Just make sure to moisturize first so the product blends smoothly. Blush on bare skin gives a healthy, natural glow and is perfect for light or no-makeup days.