An Honest Review of the Merit Flush Balm Blusher

I love blusher. In fact, I’d say it’s one of my favourite makeup products of all time. I feel like it’s often overlooked, but I truly believe that a good blusher can transform an entire makeup look. Even if I’m not wearing any makeup, I love adding a cream blush to my cheeks to make myself look a little bit more awake.

From the Jones Road Lip and Cheek Stick to Milk Makeup’s “jelly” blushers, I’ve tried pretty much every trending option out there, and there’s one product that I come back to time and time again. That’s right, I’m talking about the Merit Flush Balm.

If you’re not yet familiar with Merit, let me give you a little bit of backstory. The chic, minimalist beauty brand came to the UK earlier in 2023 and beauty editors fell head over heels for the easy-to-use, natural-looking products. From serums to complexion sticks and eyeshadows, the brand has everything you need to create a full face of glowing makeup, but in my opinion, the blushers are the star of the show. Intrigued? I thought so. Keep on scrolling for my full review…

Merit Flush Balm Blusher Review

The Formula

Ok, first things first, let’s talk formulas. This blusher has a super creamy texture which is what made me fall in love with it in the first place. It’s lightweight, very blendable, and as described by the brand, it gives a “satin” finish.

What’s really clever about it is that the blusher contains microfine pigment powders, that are designed to add a subtle hint of colour without covering your natural skin texture. That being said, this blusher is definitely buildable depending on how much of an impact you want it to make. The best bit? The formula also contains vitamin E to help hydrate the skin. If you want a dewy, juicy finish, this is the product for you.

The Shades

Now, onto the shades. There are currently nine colours to choose from, including peachy hues, bold reds and deep berry and burgundy tones. I’ve tried four of the brand’s bestselling shades, and as someone who likes more of a natural flush to the cheeks, I was drawn to ‘Stockholm’, a sheer baby pink. However, if I want more of a statement look, then ‘Mood’ (a soft plum hue) is my go-to.

The Application

Probably one of the best things about this product (amongst all the other things I’ve already mentioned), is how easy it is to apply. The blush comes in a circular pot which means you can dab it straight onto your cheeks and blend it out with your fingers or a brush. When I say that this blush blends into the cheeks in seconds, I really mean it. One or two swipes, a quick dab of your fingers and you are good to go. It really is that easy.

The Result

Before Using Merit Flush Balm

After Using Merit Flush Balm

The Verdict

All in all, I’m a big fan of this blusher. If you like a natural, dewy makeup look and want to add a flush of colour to the cheeks, I highly recommend investing in the Flush Balm. At £32, it’s definitely not one of the cheapest products out there, but a little bit goes a long way so it will last you a long time.

Two things to note, if you prefer a matte or statement finish, I would suggest giving a powder blush a go. Also, due to the creamier formula (and my oiler complexion), I do find myself having to top up the blush throughout the day. That being said, thanks to the packaging, this is a quick and easy thing to do.

Pros: Easy to apply, creamy formula, buildable colour and adds a dewy finish to the cheeks

Cons: A little more expensive and doesn’t last all day

Team Who What Wear UK’s Merit Flush Balm Review

After talking about how much I loved this blusher, the rest of team Who What Wear UK were keen to give it a go. Keep on scrolling for their thoughts…

Brittany Davy, Editorial Assistant

(Image credit: Brittany Davy)

“The Merit Flush Balm is a great addition to my everyday makeup routine. As someone with dry skin, I love that the formula is creamy without being too greasy. I applied it with my fingers and it glided on evenly without moving my foundation underneath. I love that it shows up on my deeper skin tone but still provides me with a natural flush of colour that’s perfect for those ‘no makeup’ makeup days.”

Eleanor Vousden, Beauty Editor

(Image credit: Eleanor Vousden)

“Ever since I first tried Merit’s blush, it’s never left my handbag. The domed shape of the applicator makes it so easy for swiping onto cheeks and lips, which you can easily blend with your fingertips for on-the-go application without the need for a makeup brush. I wear the shade Beverly Hills, a soft peach that isn’t too bright and adds a hint of colour to my complexion.”

Jerrylyn Saguiped, Affiliates Manager

(Image credit: Jerrylyn Saguiped)

“This blush is my go-to product for days where I want to opt for a more natural look. It’s super buildable and lightweight, and leaves my skin with a healthy flush that never looks cakey.”