These are my personal favorite blushes from the drugstore. In my opinion, these blushes are great, not just good for the price.
e.l.f. Primer Infused Blush in Always Rosy, $7.00
Update January 17, 2025: This blush has been reformulated since I last used it, so I’m unsure if the new formula performs the same and the shade may be different.
This blush actually is listed as a bestseller on e.l.f.’s website. They have also recently added 3 more for a total of seven shades.
The e.l.f. always rosy blush has a beautiful formula. I don’t really think there is a noticeable difference in performance and wear time due to it being primer infused. The texture of the powder is definitely smoother than other blushes I’ve tried, but I just don’t notice that it made a difference overall. I found it easy to pick up with any brush and easy to blend. I immediately felt like this reminded me of a more pink version of the Mac blush in the shade Mocha. I feel like Mac Mocha has more red to it than this shade.
Wet n Wild Color Icon Blush in Mellow Wine, $3.99
Update January 17, 2025: This blush has been reformulated since I last used it, so I’m unsure if the new formula performs the same and the shade may be different.
This has been a fan favorite for a long time. They updated the packaging from the old rectangular pans to this circle pan format.
This blush is very pigmented, so be careful. If you accidentally pick up too much pigment you can always blot off some of the extra onto the back of your hand or a tissue before applying the blush to your face. I really enjoyed the color and I still can’t believe it blended so well onto the skin. This is a great product at an amazing price.
ColourPop Super Shock Blush, $9.00
Update January 17, 2025: This particular shade is no longer available from Colourpop, but other shades are available.
Colourpop is an affordable brand that isn’t available in traditional drugstores. The products are priced comparatively, and they are displayed in the drugstore/non-prestige side of makeup at Ulta Beauty Stores. Ulta only has 8 shades available on their website, for a larger shade selection you can shop directly through the brand’s website.
In my mind, the texture is like wet clay. The shade I have pictured is Yes She Did, and I’d describe it as a deep dusty pink when applied to my skin tone. In the pan, it reminds me of a lighter version of MAC raizin, but once applied to the skin I feel like it looks more like a deep coral. In my experience, I do think finger application gives the best results with these super shock products. You can take the time to build the color with a brush, but using your fingers is much easier and quicker.
If you are curious, the left swatch next to the Colourpop blush is the Dr. Facilier Supershock highlight from a limited edition collection.
Do you agree with my list? If not, what are your top 3? Let me know in the comments section below.
If you enjoyed this post, please consider sticking around. You can check out my Brands A-Z index if you want to know what products I have posted about in the past.
Disclaimer: I purchased all products featured with my own money. For my full disclosure policy, click here.
Nikki From HR 