While there are a number of concealers, foundations, and powders specially formulated for acne, there are few blushers that are specifically designed with blemishes in mind. There are, however, a number of products whose high quality or natural ingredients are gentle on your skin and won't make the condition any worse.
Best Bet Blush for Acne Prone Skin
In general, powder blushes work well for oily and acne prone skin types, although some women to opt for gel or cream to powder types. Following are several products that might be good choices for those with acne prone skin.
Natural Makeup Blushes
Products made from natural ingredients are a great option for those battling pimples. These are often free of extra fragrances and preservatives (two common culprits for aggravating blemishes). Some ingredients, such as certain minerals or plant extracts, can also help heal acne as well. Many women with acne prone skin have been pleased with the results of mineral blush. There are many brands available, but not all are created equal. Look for mineral blush that that contains titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide which have healing and anti-inflammatory properties that may help blemish prone skin. Avoid mineral blushes that contain paraben preservatives and other synthetic fillers. Some natural makeup options to try include:
- NVEY Organic Blush: Made with healing vitamin E, this powder blush comes in nine colors. It's made with a jojoba oil base with chamomile and natural colors.
- Kari Gran Mineral Blush: This blush comes in a "universally flattering" pink shade called peony and is made without any talc, bismuth oxychloride, parabens, fragrances, dyes, and nano particles.
- 100% Pure Fruit Pigmented Blush: This natural blush is made with pressed rice powder and uses fruit pigments to create the colors. It's available in nine colors and also contains rosehip oil and cocoa and avocado butter.
High Quality Blushes
Many name brand blush products are good bets because they contain higher quality ingredients that are gentler and healthier for the skin. Products that have a good reputation include:
- MAC Sheertone Blush: The MAC brand is a favorite among makeup artists, and the Sheertone powder blush provides sheer, buildable coverage and comes in a wide range of colors.
- Bobbi Brown Powder Blush: Another well-known name in cosmetics, Bobbi Brown powder blush is a silk formula that glides on easily over acne prone skin and is available in 12 shades.
- NARS Blush: This high quality brand is a favorite with over 30 shades with matte, satin and shimmer options. The blush is made from a micronized, superfine power that is gentle on acne prone skin.
Consider blush from Estee Lauder and Clinique as well; these are two other brands that have a reputation for working well on all skin types, including those prone to acne.
Oil Free Blush
Many women with acne prone skin also have a tendency towards oily skin. If this is the case for you, look for oil free blusher products to minimize the shine and keep cheeks looking fresh.
- Lancôme Blush Subtil: This is an oil free, oil absorbing powder blush that has a hint of shimmer.
- Make Up Forever Oil Free Sculpting Blush: This light, silky blush available from Sephora is oil free, and the professional formula helps provide a flawless look. It comes in 25 matte colors and 8 shimmer finishes.
- Ulta Mineral Blush: This oil-free blush comes in eight shades and is also paraben and gluten-free. The blush also has vitamin E to help soothe fragile skin.
Blush Products to Avoid for Acne Prone Skin
While there are many great products that work well for skin that tends to blemish, there are a few products to avoid. Crème blush often contains emollients, or oils, and this can aggravate acne. Cheap makeup products are also a good idea to avoid; these may or may be made with inferior ingredients that could also aggravate pimples.
Blush for Acne Prone Skin: Application Tips
Apply a thin layer of foundation over the face and follow with concealer on any areas of the cheeks that have blemishes. Concealer is an important step because it prevents the blush from setting on the blemishes and attracting attention to them. Once the concealer has dried, use a light hand to apply the blush, starting at the apples of the cheeks and sweeping upward toward the temples. Use a loose or pressed powder to finish off and set the foundation, concealer, and blusher.
