I’ve always been a sucker for a good blush. There’s something about that healthy, just-pinched glow that can instantly elevate any makeup look, whether I’m running errands or prepping for a Zoom call. So when I heard about MERIT Beauty’s Flush Balm Cheek Color, I was intrigued. Promising a natural, lit-from-within flush, it sounded like the holy grail of blushes. But with so many options out there, does it really live up to the hype? After testing it for weeks, here’s my honest take.
Product Overview
The MERIT Beauty Flush Balm Cheek Color is a cream-to-powder blush that melts into the skin for a seamless, weightless finish. It’s formulated with nourishing ingredients like avocado oil, shea butter, and Vitamin E, making it not only beautiful but also skin-friendly. Available in nine shades—from soft pinks like Stockholm to warm hues like Terracotta—there’s something for every skin tone. I tested the shade “Cheeky,” a cool pink that gives a natural flush, but other popular shades include “Beverly Hills” (soft peach) and “Apres” (moody berry).
MERIT Beauty prides itself on being clean, vegan, and cruelty-free, aligning with the growing demand for ethical beauty products. The brand’s minimalist ethos shines through, offering a product that simplifies your routine while delivering a polished look.
First Impressions
The packaging is sleek and minimalist, which I absolutely love. The balm comes in a twist-up tube, making it easy to control the amount of product you use. It’s compact enough to toss in your bag for touch-ups, and the sturdy design feels luxurious without being fussy. The texture is creamy and smooth, almost like a lip balm, which makes blending a breeze. When I first swiped it on, I was impressed by how easily it glided over my skin without feeling heavy or greasy. It has a subtle, fresh scent that’s barely noticeable—perfect for those sensitive to fragrances.
Application and Usage
Applying the Flush Balm is as simple as it gets. Just swipe the balm onto the apples of your cheeks and blend with your fingers or a brush. I find that using my fingers gives the most natural finish, as the warmth of my hands helps the product melt into my skin. A brush works well for more precise application, especially if you’re layering it over foundation. The formula is buildable, so you can go from a subtle hint of color to a more dramatic flush depending on your mood.
One of the standout features is its versatility. I’ve used it on my lips for a coordinated look, and it even works as a soft eyeshadow for a monochromatic vibe. For best results, I recommend applying it over a lightweight base like a tinted moisturizer to enhance its dewy finish. If you have oily skin, a quick dusting of translucent powder can help set it without dulling the glow.
Performance
What I love most about this blush is how it wears. It stays put for about six to eight hours without fading or settling into fine lines, which is impressive for a cream formula. The finish is dewy and fresh, giving that “I just came in from the cold” look without looking cakey. On my dry skin, it feels hydrating and never emphasizes texture, which is a common issue with other blushes I’ve tried. Even after a long day, my cheeks still look naturally flushed.
The color payoff is sheer but buildable, making it ideal for a no-makeup makeup look. If you’re after a bold, editorial-style blush, this might not be your top pick, but for everyday wear, it’s perfect. I also appreciate that it doesn’t lift foundation or create patchiness when layered, a problem I’ve encountered with other cream blushes.
Comparison with Other Products
To see how the Flush Balm stacks up, let’s compare it to Glossier’s Cloud Paint, a fan-favorite cream blush. Cloud Paint has a gel-cream texture that’s dewy and highly buildable, offering a bit more pigment than the Flush Balm. For example, a Reddit user comparing Merit’s Stockholm to Cloud Paint’s Puff noted that Puff appears more peachy pink, while Stockholm is a cooler baby pink (Reddit Comparison). The Flush Balm, however, has a balm-like texture that melts into the skin for a subtler, skin-like finish. It’s also less messy to apply, as Cloud Paint’s liquid formula can sometimes require more precision.
Compared to Rare Beauty’s Soft Pinch Liquid Blush, the Flush Balm is less pigmented but more forgiving for beginners, as it blends effortlessly without streaking. If you prefer a bolder look, Cloud Paint or Rare Beauty might be better, but for a natural, everyday glow, the Flush Balm shines. It’s also less likely to pill under powder products, making it a great choice for layered makeup looks.
| Feature | MERIT Flush Balm | Glossier Cloud Paint |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Creamy balm, melts into skin | Gel-cream, lightweight |
| Finish | Dewy, natural | Dewy, slightly more pigmented |
| Application | Swipe and blend (fingers or brush) | Dot and blend (fingers or sponge) |
| Longevity | 6-8 hours, no sliding | 6-8 hours, may need touch-ups |
| Pigmentation | Sheer, buildable | Moderate, buildable |
| Price | $28 for 0.31 oz | $20 for 0.33 oz |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Natural, dewy finish that looks like your skin but better
- Easy to blend with fingers or a brush
- Long-lasting for a cream blush (6-8 hours)
- Buildable color for customizable intensity
- Clean, vegan, and cruelty-free formula
- Multi-use for cheeks, lips, and eyes
- Hydrating ingredients like avocado oil and shea butter
Cons:
- May be too sheer for those who prefer high pigmentation
- Price point ($28) is higher than some competitors like Glossier ($20)
- Limited shade range compared to some brands
Customer Testimonials
Here’s what other users are saying about the Flush Balm:
- “This blush gives the most beautiful, natural flush. It’s like my skin but better!” – Sephora Reviewer
- “I love how easy it is to apply and how it doesn’t look heavy on my mature skin.” – Beauty Blogger, The Everygirl
- “The shade Beverly Hills is my go-to for a soft, peachy glow. It’s perfect for everyday wear!” – Explore with Nora
These testimonials highlight the product’s ease of use and natural finish, resonating with users across different skin types and ages.
Who It’s For
The Flush Balm is perfect for makeup minimalists who want a quick, effortless way to add a healthy glow. It’s especially great for those with dry or mature skin, as its hydrating formula doesn’t cling to texture or fine lines. If you’re into the “clean girl” aesthetic or prefer clean beauty products, this blush aligns perfectly with those values. However, if you love bold, highly pigmented blushes for dramatic looks, you might find it too subtle, though its buildable nature offers some flexibility.
Conclusion
The MERIT Beauty Flush Balm Cheek Color is a standout in my makeup collection. It’s perfect for achieving that effortless, glowing look with minimal effort, making it a go-to for busy mornings or low-key days. Its clean, vegan formula and nourishing ingredients are a bonus for those who prioritize ethical beauty. While it may not be the boldest blush out there, its versatility, blendability, and natural finish make it a must-have for anyone seeking a radiant, skin-like glow.
Ready to try it for yourself? You can find the Flush Balm on MERIT Beauty’s website or at Sephora. Trust me, your cheeks will thank you!
