I Tried Every Shade of the Merit Beauty Flush Balm—and Here Are My Go-Tos with Original Photos
You’re making me blush
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- Formula: 20/20
- Ease of Application: 20/20
- Color Payoff: 19/20
- Longevity: 18/20
- Value: 18/20
- Total: 95/100
If you told 2019 me that I would be obsessed with blush, I would’ve thought you were crazy. Cut to today, and I have a collection of over 30 blushes. See, I love how blush adds a pop of color on my cheeks and leaves a blurred look in its wake. But still, there’s one brand that really just “gets” the product: Merit. I learned all about Merit Beauty from reading Associate Fashion Commerce Editor Stephanie Meraz’s rave review, so I was pumped to finally try their star product: the Flush Balm. Loved by celebs like Sarah Jessica Parker, Hailey Bieber and Lily Collins, here’s my honest review, including original photos of all the shades in their collection.
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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.
My Review of Merit Flush Balm
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
Merit
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.
The Bottom Line: Is the Merit Beauty Flush Balm Really Worth It?
What We Like
- blends well with finger
- lightweight formula
- buildable coverage
- great for all skin types
- leaves a natural finish
What We Don't Like
- small
- requires multiple applications to see more pigment
- not the best staying power
Merit
The Flush Balm is the real deal. It gives you flexibility to rock a subtle or dramatic look, while being comfortable on the skin and easy to blend with just with my finger. I wouldn’t say it lasts all day, but I don’t mind adding another layer if needed minus any cakiness. I also have a love and hate relationship with the size of the balm—as it’s great for travel, but won’t be useful in the long run (especially when the blush costs $30). But overall, I appreciate its multi-use function and I can foresee myself continuing to use it in my daily routine.
Fast Facts
- Key Ingredients: Vitamin E
- Shades: 13
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes Merit Beauty Flush Balm Different From Other Cream Blushes?
The Merit blush is different from other cream blushes due to its texture. It has more of a balmy quality that’s reminiscent of the Rhode Beauty Pocket Blush and Jones Road Beauty Miracle Balm. However, I found Merit’s to be the most lightweight and buildable formula that worked well with my skin type and complexion.
How Can You Find the Right Shade of Merit Beauty Flush Balm for You?
Luckily, the Merit Beauty Flush Balm comes in 13 shades for all skin tones to try out. The brand’s site makes it helpful to see how each shade works on everyone, breaking it down in five groups: fair, light, medium, deep and rich tones. I found it a useful tool before trying out the shades as I can visually see which ones would work best for my medium complexion.
Does Merit Beauty Flush Balm Work On All Skin Types?
The Merit Beauty Flush Balm works on most skin types, especially sensitive, dry and acne-prone skin. Some reviewers say it’s not the best for oily skin as it comes off a bit greasy and fades rather quickly.
Beauty and Cultures Editor
- Writes trend stories, product reviews and how-tos across beauty, cultures, fashion and entertainment
- Over 5 years of experience as a Beauty Editor
- Studied journalism with a minor in creative writing at SUNY New Paltz
