How Do I Choose the Best Gel Blush?

Choosing the best gel blush depends upon skin type, skin tone, and skin texture. In addition, the choice of gel blush may be based on a consumer's budget and whether she prefers name-brand cosmetics or lesser-known names. If a person has oily skin, she may prefer a gel blush that contains a high level of pigment, while someone who has dry skin doesn't need the extra pigment.

Generally, the oilier the skin is, the less effective the gel blush will be at maintaining a fresh color. The blush typically will be absorbed in the pores or the oil will wash away the color. To prevent this, a generous application of pressed powder can be patted onto the face after the gel blush has been put in place. The facial powder will set the blush and allow it to stay on better. One of the benefits of many gel blushes is they are water resistant or even water proof.

Another way to give gel blush more staying powder is to apply foundation make-up under the blush. In addition, a make-up primer can be used in place of a liquid foundation make-up. For some, foundation make-up is too heavy, but the make-up primer is light and doesn't add any color or additional pigment to the face. Make-up primer is a cream-based, colorless product that acts as a barrier between facial oils and the cosmetic, reducing the incidence of fading and streaking.

Someone with sensitive skin who is prone to break-outs may prefer a hypoallergenic gel blush formulated for sensitive skin. Using a gel blush designed for sensitive skin will decrease the likelihood of skin irritations and allergic reactions. In addition, if an individual is unable to tolerate any type of a gel cosmetic, she can opt for the powder version. Powder blushes can be less irritating and the pigments in powder blushes are often more vibrant and intense than in gels.

Gel blushes are usually inexpensive, and since only a small amount is needed, the tube lasts a long time. In addition, gel blushes can be purchased at drugstores, grocery stores, and even department store cosmetic counters. Typically, department store gel blushes are more expensive than drugstore brands because of the name brand attached to the product, or the quality of ingredients used.