The fact that Merit’s Flush Balm has thousands of fans—including one editor who is completely enamored with the entire collection—is hardly surprising given that celebrities like Lily Collins and Sarah Jessica Parker depend on it to make their skin glow both on and off screen. As a matter of fact, the firm recently introduced five new tones of the simple-to-use balm, and, spoiler alert, they’re *good.*
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What Is Merit Flush Balm?
The Merit Flush Balm is a multitasking product in a squat little applicator designed to swipe and go. According to the brand, Flush Balm is a “cream tint that melts into skin for a lit-from-within color that stays flush all day.” The blush (which can be used on the eyes or lips as well) comes in neutrals, classic pinks and bold shades that suit all skin tones. Merit Beauty came on the scene in 2021, and the buzzy product made waves online for it’s compact size, great color payoff (like “Rouge” shade above) and being the multi-use item you needed in your collection.
First Impressions
The first thing I noticed after unboxing it was the size. It’s truly compact. It fits easily in the palm of my hand or slipped into my bag. The twist-off top is clear, showing off the the color sitting in the luxe-looking gold base. While the compact design is smart for taking it on the go, there’s no mechanism to push out more product. With only 0.31 ounces of product, I do wish there was some way to make sure all of it could be utilized, but as far as I can tell, a little goes a long way.
How to Use Merit Beauty Flush Balm
Although the packaging is not my favorite feature, the application process and formula make up for it. The Flush Balm has a dome shape, so it was easy to apply and blend seamlessly with (or without) other makeup products. You can use a brush, beauty sponge or finger, though I preferred the latter (which I found many reviewers do, too). Just place the blush on your cheeks and use your finger to do a gentle tap motion upwards towards the temple.
Formula wise, it was nourishing and lightweight on my skin. With key ingredient vitamin E, it prides itself on being safe for sensitive and acne-prone skin. I happen to fall into both categories, so I was surprised it melted nicely onto my skin without any irritation nor greasiness. Per the brand, the blush’s “microfine pigment powders provide a touch of color without covering up your natural skin texture.”
As someone with acne scars and minor breakouts, I was grateful it left a sheer, satin finish that didn’t enhance my textured skin. It’s also a great option for mature skin as the emollient-based product won’t settle into fine lines and wrinkles. The creamy, balm-like formula is completely customizable for a subtle or dramatic look. Though I did notice some shades require more swipes than others to truly see a striking hue, but I overall love the flexibility to sport the Flush Balm how I want.
The product is available in 13 shades and I found most of the shades complemented my complexion. My favorites had to be the “Stockholm,” “Persimmon,” “Cheeky” and “Après” though they all brought a nice flushed look to my skin.
5 New Shades of Its Cult-Favorite Flush Balm
Merit recently produced a gorgeous box set that has every shade of the product, including all five of the new hues, for the Flush Balm super fans out there. With 12 full-size balms in this vault collection, you can acquire $360 worth of product for just $252, making it a terrific choice for gifting or splitting with a friend. This will undoubtedly remain on my radar as long as it’s available because I’m never one to pass up a fantastic beauty offer.
Fast Facts
- Key Ingredients: Vitamin E
- Shades: 13
