Cream and liquid blushes tested by editors, recommended by pros

Cream makeup palettes offer a natural, skin-like finish and often include skincare benefits like hydration, distinguishing them from powder alternatives. These products are versatile, allowing users to manipulate intensity and opacity for desired coverage. While suitable for most skin types, individuals with oily skin might find some oil-based cream products challenging to set without the addition of powder, as noted by celebrity makeup artist Neil Scibelli. Celebrity makeup artist Brittany Whitfield highlights their forgiving nature and ease of use. The article presents a curated list of 13 cream makeup palettes, each catering to different needs and preferences. The selection begins with an affordable option, the E.l.f. Cosmetics Cream Contour Palette, praised for its extensive color range and portability, allowing for custom contour shades. For concealers, M.A.C. Cosmetics' Studio Fix Conceal + Correct Palettes are recommended for their wide range of undertones, travel-friendliness, and buildable coverage. Danessa Myricks Beauty Dewy Cheek & Lip Palette stands out for its multi-use application, long-lasting wear, vibrant colors, and nourishing ingredients like shea butter and jojoba oil. The NYX 3C Color Correcting Concealer Palette is featured as a multi-tasker, effective for concealing, correcting, and contouring, particularly useful for addressing dark circles, hyperpigmentation, and discoloration. For a natural look on lips and cheeks, the ILIA Multi-Stick Palette offers six buildable shades, ranging from neutrals to rosy pinks. A more luxurious option, the Make Up For Ever HD Skin All-In-One Face Palette, provides six shades for concealing, contouring, and adding color with easy, buildable coverage. The Kosas Color & Light Palette – Cream Dewy Cheek Duo is ideal for achieving a dewy, iridescent glow, blending seamlessly and incorporating skin-soothing ingredients such as jojoba, rosehip, and apricot seed oil. Stila's Correct & Perfect All-In-One Color Correcting Palette is highlighted for its comprehensive color-correcting capabilities, featuring five buildable creams to neutralize various skin concerns and two finishing powders for setting. Melt Cosmetics The Deep Cream Bronzer and Contour Sculpt Stack offers a universal contour solution with five shades designed to suit different undertones, providing a smooth, second-skin-like matte finish without a grey cast. The Kaja Face Bento Cream Bronzer, Powder Blush & Highlighter Sculpting Trio is presented as an everyday option for a warm glow, combining a creamy bronzer with powder blush and highlighter. For eye makeup, the Patrick Ta Major Dimension Eyeshadow Palette includes two cream eyeshadows that serve as a base for various shimmer and matte powders. The Physicians Formula Murumuru Butter Bronzer Palette provides a sun-kissed look with three velvety smooth, cream-meets-powder bronzers. Finally, the Milani Cosmetics Cheek Kiss Blush Palettes offer lightweight, buildable balm-to-gel formulas for a non-greasy pop of color on cheeks and lips. #CreamMakeup #MakeupPalettes #BeautyProducts #SkincareBenefits #CosmeticReviews #MakeupTips #ColorCorrection #Contouring #Highlighting

The author reviews and compares different types of alphabet creams, namely BB, CC, and DD creams, to demystify their functions and assess their effectiveness. Many beauty enthusiasts are often confused by the growing range of these multi-tasking facial creams. To provide clarity, the author personally tested a selection of these products and rated them based on their performance, coverage, finish, and suitability for various skin types. Each product review includes specific observations, highlighting the pros and cons to help readers make informed choices. In the BB cream category, the author tested three different brands: Wet n Wild Fergie 8 in 1 ($5), L’Oréal Magic Skin Beautifier ($10), and Revlon PhotoReady BB Cream Skin Perfector ($11). The Wet n Wild product was noted for its smooth, lightweight, and dewy finish but lacked sufficient color coverage and had an unpleasant scent, earning it a 2-star rating. It is recommended for individuals with even skin tones and dry skin who need minimal coverage. The L’Oréal Magic Skin Beautifier impressed with its color-changing ability upon application and offered medium coverage with a matte finish. However, its shade matching was not ideal for the author's skin, resulting in a 3-star rating, making it suitable for those with combination skin desiring subtle coverage. The Revlon PhotoReady BB Cream received a 4-star rating due to its medium coverage, effective blending, and even matte finish, despite its limited wear time, suggesting it is best for combination skin and short-term use. The premium option, Dior Hydra Life BB Cream ($56), was highly praised for its even application, lightweight feel, and superior coverage, offering a balanced matte/sheen flawless finish, and was awarded a perfect 5-star rating, with no complaints other than its high price. Moving on to CC creams, the author evaluated Gosh Illuminating CC Cream ($15-24), Revlon Age Defying CC Cream Color Corrector ($14), and Smashbox Camera Ready CC Cream ($42). The Gosh CC Cream provided a dewy, illuminating finish and corrected redness with medium coverage, but its orangey tone limited its appeal, earning it 2 stars. This product is suggested for those with neutral skin tones who can accommodate a warm finish. The Revlon Age Defying CC Cream, despite the author's general preference for the brand, received 2 stars due to minimal coverage, though it matched fairly well and offered a dewy finish. It is best suited for individuals with excellent complexions needing very light coverage. POP Beauty CC Cream – Colour Adapt ($26) was notable for its color-adjusting beads, lightweight feel, and matte finish, but it fell short on redness correction and coverage, leading to a 3-star rating. It is recommended for subtle coverage and sun protection, ideal for beach wear. The Smashbox Camera Ready CC Cream earned a 4-star rating, commended for its wide range of shades, lightweight yet medium coverage, excellent blending, and ability to disguise redness with a flawless matte finish. It is recommended for those with combination and splotchy skin. Finally, the DD cream category featured the DermaDoctor DD Cream 15-Benefits-in-1 ($38). This product promised to combine the benefits of both BB and CC creams, claiming 15 benefits in one. The author found that it lived up to its claims, providing balanced, flawless coverage, and received a 5-star rating. This DD cream is highly recommended for most skin types due to its comprehensive benefits. The overall conclusion is that the differences between BB, CC, and DD creams are often less significant than the variations between brands. Price did not always correlate directly with performance, though the higher-end options often delivered superior results. The author's top three picks were the Dior Hydra BB Cream, Smashbox CC Cream, and the DermaDoctor DD Cream. The article encourages readers to experiment with different brands and products to find what best suits their individual needs, suggesting sampling products at beauty stores like Sephora. It aims to empower consumers to navigate the seemingly complex world of alphabet creams with greater confidence. #BeautyProducts #SkincareReview #BBCream #CCCream #DDCream #MakeupReview #BeautyTips #ProductComparison

Eyeshadow sticks are gaining popularity in the beauty industry due to their ease of application, portability, and versatility, offering a convenient alternative to traditional powder eyeshadows. This article identifies and reviews the best eyeshadow sticks available, based on extensive testing and evaluation by beauty experts. The testing process involved a comprehensive assessment of over 20 popular eyeshadow stick options over two days. Testers applied each product after using an eyeshadow primer, meticulously evaluating application ease, blending capabilities, performance, overall aesthetic, and pigmentation. Key aspects considered were whether the color appeared natural or dramatic, and how buildable the product was. The evaluations were guided by insights from experienced makeup artists and beauty experts, Jenny Patinkin, Bryan Cantor, and Norah Salazar, who provided professional perspectives on the qualities of effective eyeshadow sticks. Several key factors were highlighted for selecting an ideal eyeshadow stick. Long-wearing claims are crucial, as they indicate a formula designed to resist sliding or creasing over time. For maximum longevity, especially in challenging conditions, waterproof options are recommended. The finish of the eyeshadow stick is another important consideration, with options ranging from matte to shimmer, metallic, and pearlescent. While matte finishes can sometimes appear opaque or dense on the lid, a light shimmer is often advised for a more universally flattering look. Dry time is a delicate balance; a formula that is too creamy may crease, while one that dries too quickly can be difficult to blend. The ideal stick offers sufficient playtime for blending before setting effectively. Among the top recommendations, the Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Eyeshadow Stick was lauded as the "Best Overall" for its rich pigmentation, crease-free wear, and easy blendability, even without a brush. For budget-conscious consumers, the NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil All-In-One Eyeshadow Eyeliner Pencil was highlighted for its balance of texture and buildable color at an affordable price point. The ColourPop Shadow Stix earned praise for its excellent layering capabilities and smooth application, making it the "Best Buildable" option. The Fenty Beauty Shadowstix Longwear Eyeshadow Stick stood out for its intense color payoff and unique tapered tip, facilitating precise application for bold looks. The IT Cosmetics Superhero No-Tug Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick was recognized for its exceptional staying power and waterproof formula, ideal for special occasions. Julep Eyeshadow 101 Crème to Powder Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick was noted for its extensive shade range, offering over 50 colors in various finishes and featuring a built-in sponge applicator for versatility. For matte finish enthusiasts, the Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Matte was recommended for its smooth, soft texture that mimics a powder shadow without dryness. The MAKE UP FOR EVER Aqua Resist Smoky Eyeshadow Stick was chosen for creating dramatic, long-lasting eye looks with intense shimmer, and the Milani Gilded Eyeshadow Sticks were celebrated for their smooth, creamy texture and versatility for both intense and subtle applications. The tarte Quick Stick Waterproof Shadow & Liner was favored for natural, everyday wear due to its creamy texture, neutral shades, and dual-purpose design. Lastly, the Vieve Eye Wand was highlighted as the "Best for Mature Skin," as it blended seamlessly without accentuating fine lines and worked well as a base for other shadows. Effective application techniques involve drawing the stick directly onto the eye area and then softening the edges with a brush or fingertip, starting application at the lash line and moving upwards to reduce tension on the eyelid skin. To prevent creasing, it is advised to avoid tugging the eyelid skin during application and to prep lids with a primer, optionally finishing with a setting spray and a light dusting of setting powder. Most eyeshadow stick formulas are as easy to remove as powder shadows, with waterproof versions requiring a dedicated eye makeup remover to avoid excessive scrubbing of the delicate eyelid area. #EyeshadowSticks #BeautyProducts #MakeupReview #LongLastingMakeup #SmudgeFree #CreamEyeshadow #BeautyTips #MakeupApplication

The author, a 40-year-old beauty writer living with lupus, discusses her struggle with red, dry, and irritated skin, especially during winter. She highlights the challenge of finding effective makeup that doesn't exacerbate her skin issues, particularly as she aims to move away from heavy foundations. Her search led her to discover Erborian’s CC Red Correct, a color-correcting skin tint that has gained popularity on social media for its ability to reduce redness and illuminate the skin. The Erborian CC Red Correct cream features Centella Asiatica, also known as cica or tiger grass, as its primary active ingredient. This ingredient is recognized for its anti-inflammatory properties, its effectiveness in soothing the skin, improving uneven skin tone, and stimulating collagen production. The formula also includes glycerin, which provides hydration without leaving a heavy residue on the face. Additionally, the cream offers SPF 25 protection. The product is designed to blur pores, offering a natural and smooth finish, and is free from common irritants such as sulfates, parabens, and formaldehyde. The author notes that many color-correcting formulations designed to reduce redness typically appear green. Upon first use, she observed that only a minimal amount of Erborian CC Red Correct was needed to effectively cover a patch of red, visible veins on her cheek. The application resulted in a hydrated, non-chalky finish that seamlessly blended with her natural skin tone. A crucial point of consideration is that the product is available in a single shade that adapts to the user's skin tone, with the brand recommending it for individuals with fair to medium complexions. Further testing involved her sister, who experiences acne-prone skin. A small application of the cream on a pimple successfully reduced redness and concealed the blemish without causing clumping in dry areas around the spot. This positive personal experience is corroborated by the product's popularity among Amazon shoppers, with over 4,000 units sold in the preceding month alone. Customer testimonials highlight the cream's smooth, creamy texture, light and silky feel, and its ability to provide a natural look superior to traditional concealers, foundations, or tinted moisturizers. One 60-year-old user, who prefers not to wear foundation, praised the cream for neutralizing redness around her nose and achieving a flawless finish that appears natural. The article concludes by recommending Erborian CC Red Correct for individuals seeking solutions for recurring redness and also lists several other Amazon-approved redness-reducing creams, ranging in price from $4 to $47, including options from E.l.f., Elizabeth Mott, L’Oreal Paris, and IT Cosmetics. #Skincare #BeautyProducts #ColorCorrection #RednessRelief #LupusSkincare #MatureSkin #KoreanBeauty #TintedMoisturizer #SPFProtection

Blue-gray paint colors offer a blend of blue's calming properties and gray's neutrality, creating versatile shades suitable for various interior and exterior applications. Paint professionals highlight several blue-gray hues that can introduce calm and sophistication to different rooms within a home. These shades range from soft, tranquil tones to deep, dramatic variations, making them adaptable to diverse design aesthetics and lighting conditions. Steely Gray by Sherwin-Williams is a moody blue-gray with subtle blue undertones, favored for living spaces where it establishes a calming foundation. It complements traditional and transitional designs and pairs well with charcoal and natural stone. Adirondack Blue by Behr is a rich slate blue, ideal for creating depth in light neutral schemes, particularly in bathrooms and kitchens. It harmonizes with warm neutrals, light wood tones, and matte finishes. Oyster Bay by Sherwin-Williams, though categorized as green, exhibits a beautiful gray hue when combined with cool palettes, making it effective for balancing warm and cool tones. This color works well with gray stone, marble, natural wood, and brass, and can evoke a coastal vibe. Blue 01 by Lick is a pale, soft light blue with a gray undertone, recommended for bedrooms due to its soothing qualities that promote rest. It performs best in south, east, or west-facing rooms to avoid feeling too cold. Wall Street by HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams is a deep blue-gray that balances blue and gray tones, serving as a versatile backdrop for multi-purpose rooms. It is suitable for office spaces, promoting productivity, and can be brightened with brass finishes, black accents, and white ceilings. Solitude AF-545 by Benjamin Moore, from the Affinity Color Collection, balances softness and richness. Its high gray percentage gives it a modern feel, pairing with neutrals, pinks, greens, or contrasting with vibrant orange accents. It is adaptable for both interior and exterior use. Blue Arrow by Valspar, a 2023 Color of the Year, is a popular blue-gray with a subtle yellow undertone, introducing warmth. It is suitable for both interior and exterior applications, particularly noted for its modern charm and celestial backdrop potential for outdoor spaces. Light Blue by Farrow & Ball is a nuanced shade that shifts between blue, green, and gray depending on light, offering an elegant backdrop for any room. It can be paired with Slipper Satin for a traditional look or with Studio Green or Mouse’s Back for a modern contrast. Overcast by C2 Paints is a light, sensory blue-gray resembling a powdery sky blue with silvery gray, creating a bright and breezy feel. Despite its gray undertone, it remains luminous due to its pigment quality and can be paired with earthy neutrals, soft whites, or mid-tone grays. Samovar Silver by Sherwin-Williams is a cool blue-gray with a slate undertone, providing sophistication. It is ideal for private spaces like bathrooms, paired with crisp white trim, or warmed with rustic woods and textured linens. Intercoastal Gray by Behr, a tranquil gray with blue undertones, enhances curb appeal, looking clean and modern with black window frames and white trim. Colorado Gray by Benjamin Moore is a soft blue-gray with a hint of green, a versatile choice for various rooms, enhancing aesthetic appeal when paired with bold accents or oak furniture. Blue Twilight by Valspar is a gray-leaning blue-gray balanced with blue undertones, evoking quiet luxury. Its calming qualities make it suitable for transitional spaces like sunrooms. Chalky Blue by Glidden is a versatile mid-tone blue-gray that can complement various styles and color schemes, blending with both warm and cool tones. Stardew by Sherwin-Williams features dreamy slate blue tones balancing warm and cool undertones, ideal for rooms of respite and suitable for color drenching. NYPD by Behr is a classic, charcoal gray-blue for contemporary exteriors, pairing well with dark wood and matte black accents. Silver Gray by Benjamin Moore is a pale gray with a delicate blue note, bringing calm to bedrooms, bathrooms, or exteriors, and pairs well with creamy off-white for a serene atmosphere. Winter in Paris by Valspar, a cool blue-gray with a touch of green, adds optimism and freshness to high-use areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Mirror Mirror by Glidden acts as a sophisticated neutral, providing a modern and timeless backdrop for formal living or dining rooms. Upward by Sherwin-Williams, the 2024 Color of the Year, is a light and airy blue with a hint of gray, offering a calming effect for various applications. Midnight Blue by Behr is a deep blue-gray with a hint of black, offering classic elegance for exteriors, suitable for a bold yet timeless look. Wolf Gray by Benjamin Moore is a fearless and moody rich gray with a strong blue undertone, popular for accents in interiors and complementing light gray stones and dark wood on exteriors. Jolene by Valspar balances color and neutrality with yellow undertones and cool blue hues, ideal for open floor plans. Night Rendezvous by Glidden is a deep blue-gray that can add depth and coziness, suitable for accent walls, kitchen islands, or base cabinets. #BlueGrayPaint #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #PaintColors #SherwinWilliams #BenjaminMoore #BehrPaint #Valspar #Glidden #ColorPsychology