‘This blush stick instantly makes me look like I've had a good night's sleep'
These creamy blusher sticks launched last week and, after giving them a proper go, I'm so impressed with how fresh and youthful they make my complexion look, says our beauty editor
A new Charlotte Tilbury product launch is always big news in the beauty world, and its latest was no exception. Last week the much-loved make-up and skincare brand unveiled an extension to its Unreal Skin Foundation Stick with new Unreal Blush Healthy Glow Sticks, and I was lucky enough to try them out ahead of their launch.
Available in six shades, Unreal Blush, £30, is a chubby, twist-up stick of creamy, skincare-packed colour, which can be used on the cheeks and the lips (or anywhere you like, really). I've used them for a good few days now, and can now say that they've become a firm fixture in my make-up bag for just how good they make my skin look; I'd even go as far as the say they knock years off the clock.
I was sent a few shades of Unreal Blush to try, but the one that suits my fair skin best is Rosy Glow, a dusky neutral pink (I think this will be the most popular with shoppers). All the colours are very pigmented, so you only need to apply a small dot each time then blend it out.
The formula is so unbelievably creamy; it just melts onto the skin, and blends really well with either fingers or a brush (I prefer using a brush). You can really feel how hydrating it is on the skin, and this feeling lasts all day, no patchiness or cracking here.
Apply the right blush, and in the right places, and it will usually make your skin look fresher and more awake, but these Charlotte Tilbury sticks are especially good at this. The combination of the perky shades and the dewy formula are really prettifying, and give skin such a boost – something that's especially welcome at the moment, as I've been struggling to sleep at night due to the warm weather.
I'd go as far as to say that wearing this blush makes me look younger, much like the effect that the Charlotte Tilbury Unreal Skin Foundation Stick had on me (you can read my full review here, but in summary, I was asked to show ID when wearing this face base – and I was 36 at the time).
With so many gorgeous stick blushes on the market nowadays, I don't think I'll ever go back to using pressed powder one, and they've totally converted a former blush-phobe into a huge fan. Others I love are Rhode's Pocket Blush, £24 (the shade Piggy is my favourite), Merit's now-cult classic Flush Balm, £26, and the new Dior Backstage Rosy Glow Stick, £37.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Wales Online
2 days ago
- Wales Online
The best summer essentials you can get in the generous Cult Beauty sale today
The best summer essentials you can get in the generous Cult Beauty sale today Whether you're restocking your SPF or investing in a little self-care, now might be a good time to click 'add to basket' There are a number of great deals at Cult Beauty at the moment (Image: ©2014-2019 Tomasz Skoczen- Getty ) There's something extra satisfying about bagging beauty favourites at a serious discount, especially when they're summer staples you'll use every single day. Cult Beauty's current sale is brimming with sunny-weather must-haves, from floral fragrances to sun protection, with up to 35% off top-rated products. Whether you're restocking your SPF or investing in a little self-care, now might be a good time to click add to basket. Summer is all about radiance in your scent, your skin, and your overall vibe. So we've taken a look at some of the standout deals that promise to upgrade your beauty routine without draining your wallet this summer. For money-saving tips, sign up to our Money newsletter here Think celebrity-adored brands, all with healthy discounts to soften the blow. So here's what to shop now while you can still save money: Charlotte Tilbury A Perfume Travel Trio (Worth £60) (Image: Cult Beauty ) (Was £48.00, now £31.20) This trio of elegant, travel-sized perfumes could be your new go-to if you're jetting off on holiday or just want to smell amazing. Featuring three of Charlotte Tilbury's iconic scents, this set is perfect for holidays, handbags, or gifting, and it comes in a sleek, portable box and is a great intro to the luxury brand for a fraction of the price. You can buy it here. Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte's Magic Body Cream (200ml) (Image: Cult Beauty ) (Was £49.00, now £39.20) Charlotte's Magic Body Cream has a serious fan base and for good reason. Packed with nourishing oils, hyaluronic acid, and caffeine, this rich lotion melts into skin to smooth, plump, and deeply hydrate. Ideal for post-shower glow or a mid-day moisture boost, it's a summer staple for silky-soft skin. Plus, a little goes a long way, so this 200ml jar might last well into autumn. You can buy it here. Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray (Image: Cult Beauty ) Was £20.99, now: £13.64: Sunscreen is non-negotiable but that doesn't mean it has to be a chore. Sun Bum's SPF 50 Spray is a no-fuss mist that shields against UVA/UVB rays while nourishing skin with vitamin E. Lightweight and fast-absorbing, it ticks every box for responsible sun protection, and it's also free from parabens, sulphates, and cruelty. Article continues below It's also ideal for beach days, daily commutes, or touch-ups on the go. You can buy it here.
Daily Mirror
3 days ago
- Daily Mirror
9 new makeup, skincare and fashion buys on our weekend wishlist
Our shopping writers are filling their baskets with these new launches from No7, Charlotte Tilbury, Nobody's Child and more The solstice is behind us, and we can all rejoice in the knowledge that summer is officially here - as is the weekend. With two whole days of R+R ahead of us - whether that be curled up on the sofa, lounging on a towel at the beach or partaking in an adventure out in the wilderness - we know that somewhere in the next 48+ hours there will be a spot of online retail therapy. Whether it's in the morning while you're still in your pyjamas with a brew in hand or to help wind down the day, our shopping team have been scouring the current deals, sales and new launches to help give budding shoppers some inspiration. From Damson Madder's epic sale which has seen some of its best-selling pieces massively reduced (something both Eve and Bethan have taken advantage of), to a new blush from Charlotte Tilbury to the whizz skincare product Eve swears by for being the antidote to pretty much any skincare problem she's had. We also included some staple clothing pieces that are ideal for any upcoming festivals and beyond. Bethan's picks Charlotte Tilbury Unreal Blush Stick - £30 The makeup trend of summer 2025 is dewy, glowy blush and just in time for the balmy weather, celebrity-favourite brand Charlotte Tilbury has launched their Unreal Blush Healthy Glow Sticks, £30, to deliver exactly that. Released earlier this month, I predict these user-friendly cream blush sticks to be a summer beauty essential. Available in six flattering shades: pinky glow, rosy glow, peachy glow, pretty glow, cherry glow, and berry glow, the formula promises to instantly re-texturise, blur and lift the skin's appearance for 'your smoothest, freshest, healthiest looking sun-blushed glow in seconds'. Like many of Charlotte Tilbury's products, they are packed with powerful skincare ingredients, with results showing 90% of users agree it visibly reduces fine lines, while 95% report plumper-looking skin. With the growing popularity of cream blush sticks in the makeup world, other top choices include Rhode Pocket Blush, retailing at £24, Merit's Flush Balm, priced at £26, which has caught the eye of celebrities and beauty editors, and Lady Gaga's Haus Labs Glassy Lip and Cheek Stick, £30. Damson Madder becca multi-way blouse - £85 When it comes to summer styling, I want clothes that are cool and comfortable without compromising on style, and Damson Madder has nailed that with their becca multi-way blouse. Priced at £85, it may initially seem expensive for a top, but there are a few standout features that make it well worth the price tag, in my opinion. Firstly, it's made from organic cotton, making it a dream for wearing in the warmer weather, with the fabric renowned for keeping wearers cool in the heat. The blouse features a shirred bodice, which is basically an invitation to eat as much pasta salad as possible, as it will remain comfortable no matter what. The bubble hem is bang on trend, but the most stand-out feature has to be the detachable puff sleeves, which means this top actually gets you two looks in one, with the option of styling it sleeveless, too. In girl math, that's basically half price. If you love Damson Madder's vibes but not their price tags, they do currently have a sale on that's well worth taking a look at. I've just snagged a £65 swimsuit for £33 ready for my summer hols. Le Monde Gourmand Thé Matcha Eau de Parfum - £24 It's safe to say that matcha is having a real moment. Whether that's for its perceived health benefits, Instagrammable aesthetics or unique flavour profile is yet to be determined, but either way, people are going matcha mad (myself, only recently, included). After finally braving my first matcha this month, and realising I actually rather like it, I'm well and truly on board with the craze, even extending into my fragrance collection. Much like how Blank Street's iced white chocolate matcha offers a pick-me-up on a warm summer's day, The Le Monde Gourmand Thé Matcha perfume is equally refreshing. Inspired by the green tea, it offers a fresh, creamy yet earthy aroma reminiscent of the mid-afternoon café treat. It boasts notes of green tea akin to Elizabeth Arden's iconic Green Tea Eau de Toilette, alongside freesia and amber. It's pretty subtle but light, airy and perfect for a summer's day when you don't want to wear anything too cloying. I don't find them particularly long-lasting but at £24 it's an affordable fragrance I don't mind spritzing throughout the day. FatFace Adele Orange Midi Dress - £69 The Adele dress from FatFace has long been one of my favourite wardrobe staples, reworn over and over again. Now, the retailer has given the frock a makeover - and much like the above Damson Madder blouse, has a genius feature that allows you to get way more wear out of it. The £69 dress now features a V-neckline on one side and a classic square neckline on the other, so you can wear it either way. It's complete with soft elastic sleeves, a gently structured bodice and has retained its popular side seam pockets, but has ditched the bottom skirt tier for an updated look. It comes in five colours and is still just as flattering and versatile as ever. From workdays to weekends, just add a jacket and your favourite footwear and you're good to go. No7 Good Intent Dew Bank Water Cream I rarely get through one moisturiser before opening another, but the Laneige Water Bank is one of the first products I hit pan on in a long time, and have gone on to repurchase it over and over. But enter the No7 Good Intent Dew Bank Water Cream, which could potentially be a gamechanger. It forms part of the brand's new eight-product lineup that features TikTok-worthy packaging, K-beauty inspired textures - all with the power of No7 formulas and a purse-friendly price point. Powered by hyaluronic acid and camelia oil, it's a feather-light water cream that's like a cool drink of water for the skin, ideal for hot days, oily skin, or layering under SPF. I found it to work really well under makeup without pilling, and what struck me most was the size of the bottle for the price. You get a whopping 100ml for £14.95, compared to £34 for 50ml of Laneige. I do prefer the pump dispenser for hygiene reasons, however it does make it more difficult to know when you're nearing the end of the product. Eve's picks: Wonderbalm - Amazon, £29 When I tell you I use this amazing Wonderbalm for everything - skincare related - I really mean it. I first tried the best-selling skincare on British Airways and now Best Vegan All-round Cream, a couple of months back and it has worked wonders for a variety of skin issues, from sunburn (I forgot to reapply), to severely dry lips and skin to even a little dermatitis flare up from a new cardigan that broke me out in hives (not very fun). My partner's even taken to using it. The balm is an all in one multi-purpose balm whose benefit include a skin moisturiser, natural first aid kit, hair mask, lip balm, after shave balm, hand cream (and foot cream), cuticle moisturiser, makeup primer, makeup remover, eye cream, tattoo aftercare, hydrating skin mask as well as an ointment to put on burns, cuts and scrapes. Packed with natural ingredients like the likes of shea butter, orange peel oil, olive oil and more, it's a staple in my beauty bag and really works hard when put up to the task - whether I'm on the go or at home. It doesn't smell chemically but it's also not the sweetest of smells. It smells olive oil-y, which doesn't really both me. Plus, it has little (what I assume to be) exfoliating balls in the mixture which feels lovely on skin. To use the Wonderbalm, simply pop a pea sized amount in your hands and rub together to turn it into an oil. Dr Althea Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm - £18.99 Cleansing balms are such a luxurious way to take off the day and I've recently discovered relatively inexpensive balm from Dr Althea that melts off makeup in real time and leaves my skin feeling refreshed, cleansed and soothed. The Dr Altea Pure Grinding Cleansing balm contains less than 15 ingredients, including plant-based oils, and Madecassoside which 'provides skin protection', and doesn't really have much of a scent. It feels silky smooth on the skin too and emulsifies when water is added. It's gentle on the skin and leaves it feeling soft and hydrated. I will say it does need a bit more product to take off heavy makeup and may require a few goes - it's not as easy as say the Elemis Cleansing Balm (my usual no.1 fave cleansing product), but it certainly does the job. Nobody's Child X Poppy Delevingne Blue Fringe Jaime Denim Jacket I had been eyeing up this Jaime jacket since Nobody's Child announced its collaboration with Poppy Delevingne a few months ago, so when payday came and a treat was well deserved, I hit checkout to see if it lived up to the reputation it had been getting online. Spoiler: it did. On its first wear, I received an abundance of compliments with many people asking where it was from. As someone who has owned a number of denim jackets over the years, I can crown it as the perfect summer denim jacket as it's unbelievably light-weight. I will say it definitely feels, in weight, similar to a denim shirt although with a bit more of a structure thanks to its statement silver buttons and weighty fringe. This glorious fringe on the chest and back give it such a cool Western look that would be absolutely perfect for any upcoming festivals (although I intend to wear it everywhere and anywhere). Now, it is an investment piece at £110 usually but the jacket is currently on sale in the brand's up to 50% off summer reductions to £77. If that's still a bit steep, Nasty Gal's Denim Fringe Oversized jacket in £63.20 at Debenhams, meanwhile M&S' Suedette Fringed Jacket is £59. Pull & Bear's Beaded handbag - now £25.19 We've all seen the fruit-adorned/fruit-themed bags that have been gracing the shelves of River Island, Anthropologie and more. And in a bid to find a colourful bag that would match a wedding outfit some weeks back, I stumbled upon this gorgeous yellow beaded handbag from Pull & Bear that comes decorated with a papaya fruit and watermelon - I was in love. With a sort of bucket style (it is fastened with a string tie), the short handle of the bag is easy to carry on the wrist and it's big enough to hold my phone, lipstick and even some relatively unclunky keys. With hues of yellow, pink, red, green, orange, black and more, the bag will go with so many different outfit options. It also comes with a longer strap should you wish to wear it across the body to keep your arms more free for dancing.
The Independent
3 days ago
- The Independent
Four summer make-up trends to try — and how to pull them off
A noticeable shift is underway in the beauty world as summer 2025 ushers in a lighter, more ethereal makeup mood. While 2024 saw a surge in heavy blush, ultra-skinny brows, and diamante eye looks, these trends have, rather predictably, not endured. This season, the focus has shifted toward freshness, with natural eyes, frosted finishes, and a rise in skincare-infused products. Here's what make-up artists say are their favourite trends that you should try this season. Tinted SPF Any dermatologist will tell you, the best thing you can do to prevent skin laxity and wrinkles isn't Botox or exosome treatments – but daily SPF. However, sun creams and SPFs have traditionally been either too oily, too chalky or too white cast to wear every day or sit comfortably under make-up. This is why virtually every makeup brand is now releasing its answer to the problem: tinted SPFs. 'One of the biggest make-up mistakes I see is people not wearing SPF under their make-up,' says CCO and founder of her namesake brand, Charlotte Tilbury. 'It is so important to wear SPF every day, even when it is not sunny outside, which is why we created the UV flawless poreless primer.' 'The rise in popularity of K-beauty this year has had an influence on our summer makeup trends. There is a lot of emphasis on skincare and 'skinimalism',' says celebrity and Strictly Come Dancing make-up artist Ariane Young. Tinted SPF, she explains, allows for 'minimal coverage [and] evens out your skin tone while also giving a hydrated glowy look.' Compared to BB or CC creams, tinted SPF is lighter and lends itself to the growing appetite for low-effort beauty. 'If you love that 'no make-up, make-up' look,' Young says, 'a tinted SPF is your best friend.' And unlike most bases, the more you wear it, the better your skin will look, preventing pigmentation and redness. Cool-toned eyes A nostalgic nod to early-2000s shimmer is making its way back into our makeup bags. Icy whites, sheer lavenders and frosted blues are back, only this time they're less Paris Hilton and more Hailey Bieber. 'While icy, cool-toned eyeshadows were incredibly popular back in the late nineties and early Noughties, they were often chalky, hard to blend and unforgiving,' explains Tilbury. 'We don't want it to look like the Tin Man!' says Young, 'the trick is to pick a focal point to avoid going too frosted with everything.' A single frost-toned eye against matte skin and a neutral lip keeps the look more mature. 'Blend and diffuse the colour all over the lid so you have a light wash of colour,' says Young, and if you're not confident with eyeshadow, 'you can always add a pop of colour with a fun eyeliner colour. This trend is all about having fun with make-up and is perfect for festival season.' If you're not used to icy tones, 'there are ways of incorporating cooler-toned make-up into your everyday staples by swapping out your warm eyeshadows and gold glosses for greyer inspired shades,' explains MAC Cosmetics senior make-up artist for the UK and Ireland, Carly Utting. 'This may sound scary if you're used to bronzes and warm tones, but a balance of both works wonders!' She loves pairing a cool-toned lipliner with a honey lipstick in a nod to the Nineties. Ghost lashes Subtle and almost imperceptible, the ghost lash has emerged as this summer's biggest trend. Wearing make-up without mascara may instil fear in most, but thick coats of mascara and showy falsies are no longer the go-to. Make-up artist Mira Parmar describes it as 'a minimalist, no-mascara or barely-there lash look,' one that's become a red carpet favourite for celebrities like Zendaya, Sophie Turner, Hailey Bieber and Lily-Rose Depp. 'This effortless style gives your lashes a much-needed break from heavy products, looks naturally elegant, and saves time, making it a perfect match for the 'clean girl' aesthetic,' she says. But this isn't simply a fleeting fad, as Parmar says, 'It's more than just a trend, it marks a shift toward natural beauty and skin-first makeup, which is rooted in authenticity, minimalism and self-care.' Crisp, hyper-lined lips are out, and the messy, diffused, French girl lip is in. 'Creating the perfect lip shape is out, instead [people are] going for a more blended and blurred lip line,' says Young. 'There's a move towards a sheerer coverage plumped lip, enhanced by liner and filled with just gloss,' says Utting, who says natural lips with a slight sheen is a trend 'growing at a rapid rate.'
