There's no denying that Rare Beauty's Soft Pinch Liquid Blush has earned its spot in countless makeup bags. With its intense pigmentation and staying power, it's become a go-to for many. But what other products could complement this powerhouse? We've explored some intriguing options from lesser-known brands that could bring new dimensions to your makeup routine.
PLAY Lip Shield SPF 30 Tropical Set: The Unexpected Summer Savior
We've all been there – a perfectly flushed face paired with sunburned lips isn't exactly the look we're going for. Supergoop!'s PLAY Lip Shield takes an innovative approach to this common beauty dilemma by combining serious sun protection with tropical flavors that make SPF feel less utilitarian.
The brand's journey started with a mission to install SPF pumps in Texas schools, and that practical, protection-first philosophy shows in this product. Their reef-friendly, cruelty-free formulation demonstrates how sun protection can evolve beyond the basic zinc sticks of yesterday. The set works particularly well for those moments when you want your blush to be the star of the show, not your sunburned pout.
Why we like Supergoop!
1
Sun Protection Focus
Dedicated specifically to SPF products with innovative formulations
2
Reef-Friendly Formula
Environmental consciousness in beauty protection
3
Practical Innovation
Combines necessary sun protection with enjoyable tropical flavors
Hyper Cake Liner: Your Creative Canvas Companion
While your cheeks glow with liquid blush, LA Girl's Hyper Cake Liner opens up a world of artistic possibilities. This water-activated liner comes with its own brush, proving that innovation doesn't always require a hefty price tag.
LA Girl has carved out an interesting niche in the beauty world, focusing on creating high-quality color cosmetics that don't break the bank. The Hyper Cake Liner's buildable formula allows for everything from subtle definition to bold graphic looks. We're particularly intrigued by how its staying power matches up to cream and liquid products, making it a reliable partner for all-day wear.
Why we like LA Girl
1
Affordable Innovation
High-quality products at accessible price points
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Versatile Application
Water-activated formula allows for various styling options
3
Professional Quality
Matches the performance of higher-priced alternatives
Pregame Setting Spray: The Science Experiment Gone Right
Here's something wild – Youthforia's founder actually slept in this setting spray for months before releasing it. This dedication to testing speaks volumes about their approach to product development, and we're fascinated by their commitment to creating truly skin-friendly makeup.
The spray's green chemistry principles and USDA BioPreferred certification suggest a forward-thinking approach to beauty. It's designed to work with your existing products while potentially improving your skin's condition – a refreshing departure from traditional setting sprays that can leave skin feeling tight or dry.
Why we like Youthforia
1
Rigorous Testing
Unique founder-tested development process
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Green Chemistry
USDA BioPreferred certified formulation
3
Skin-Friendly Innovation
Focus on improving skin while setting makeup
Dew Blush: The Texture-Play Expert
When layering different finishes becomes an art form, Saie's Dew Blush enters the chat. This cream formula brings an interesting dimension to a makeup routine, especially when strategically paired with liquid products.
The brand's clinical approach to clean beauty manifests in this thoughtfully formulated blush. We're intrigued by how they've managed to create a product that plays well with others – no pilling or separation when layered over or under other complexion products. Their commitment to sophisticated formulations shows through in how seamlessly this blush integrates into various makeup combinations.
Why we like Saie
1
Texture Innovation
Unique cream formula that layers perfectly
2
Clean Beauty Focus
Clinical approach to natural formulations
3
Universal Compatibility
Works seamlessly with various makeup products
The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick: The Foundation Reimagined
MERIT's complexion stick takes an interesting approach to base makeup, focusing on targeted application rather than full-face coverage. This surgical precision allows for creating a canvas that enhances rather than competes with your blush application.
Working with Hollywood facialists during development signals MERIT's attention to skin health. Their minimalist philosophy extends beyond aesthetics into formulation, suggesting a thoughtful approach to what actually needs to be in a product – and what doesn't.
Why we like MERIT
1
Targeted Application
Precision-focused complexion product
2
Expert Development
Collaboration with Hollywood facialists
3
Minimalist Philosophy
Thoughtful ingredient selection
Cream Blush: The Texture Master
REFY's approach to cream blush formulation presents an interesting take on dimensional makeup. The brand's founder, Jess Hunt, emphasizes enhancing rather than masking natural features – a philosophy that comes through in this product's buildable formula.
We're particularly interested in how this cream formula interacts with different base products. Its ability to create subtle depth without disturbing underlying makeup suggests careful consideration of real-world application scenarios. The focus on buildable coverage offers flexibility in creating various looks.
Why we like REFY
1
Enhancement Philosophy
Focus on natural feature enhancement
2
Buildable Formula
Flexible coverage options
3
Base-Friendly
Carefully designed to work with various foundations
Blush: The Biology Major's Beauty Project
When a Biology graduate creates makeup, interesting things happen. Kosas's founder Sheena Zadeh-Daly brings a scientific perspective to color cosmetics, resulting in a blush that considers skin chemistry as much as color payoff.
The brand's clinical testing approach adds credibility to their skin-first philosophy. We're intrigued by how they've balanced immediate cosmetic effects with longer-term skin benefits. This systematic approach to formulation suggests a deeper understanding of how makeup interacts with skin over time.
Why we like Kosas
1
Scientific Approach
Biology-based product development
2
Clinical Testing
Rigorous validation process
3
Dual-Purpose Formula
Combines immediate and long-term benefits
Beyond the Basics: Building Your Blush Wardrobe
These products each bring distinct qualities to a makeup collection, complementing rather than competing with your Rare Beauty blush. From scientific formulations to artistic applications, each option offers unique possibilities for expanding your beauty routine. Whether you're interested in layering textures, adding sun protection, or exploring new finishes, these alternatives provide interesting ways to build upon your existing collection.