I've been experimenting with homemade makeup for years, from DIY concealer and highlighter to lip balm to mascara. I have a powder blush I like that it works well, but I've been getting requests for the creme blush option. After nailing a Liquid foundation recipeI also decided to work on a blush with a creamy formula.
You can customize this cream blush to your skin tone for a buildable shade. If you have warmer undertones, then use a little more cocoa powder or warmer-toned pigments. I've included instructions for the amount of pigment I use, but you can change it to your preferences.
Red Cream
Many cream blushes on the market use ingredients like dimethicone, silica, red 6 and other ingredients that I am not thrilled with. While more companies now make non-toxic options, it's usually cheaper to make your own!
Cream blush has more staying power and can be much bolder and more versatile than powder blush. A little goes a long way. I also use a small amount to darken my natural foundation if I need to in the summer.
Depending on the ingredients used, your blush may have a matte or dewy finish. Cocoa powder helps give the creme blush formula a warmer tone, and mica adds color and a brilliant shine.
Ingredients for the best fry
There are two options for this recipe. One uses a pre-made lotion, while the other is a DIY liquid foundation.
- For a simpler version, use a natural lotion prepared in advance for the base and add colors and pigments as needed.
- The DIY base takes a little more time and five ingredients, but allows for more customization since you're making the base lotion yourself.
If you are making your own blush base then you will need it shea butteraloe vera gel and emulsifying wax. Beeswax won't work here because we need emulsifying wax to combine the water and oil-soluble ingredients. The basic ingredients are the same as my liquid foundation recipe.
Aloe vera is moisturizing and shea butter is nourishing for dry skin. You can also add a little vitamin E oil for antioxidants and to extend shelf life. While I love fresh aloe vera, it has a very short shelf life in DIY skin care recipes. Using a pre-made and naturally preserved aloe vera gel works best here.
Customize your cream blush color
This DIY starts with cocoa powder or natural mineral makeup for coloring. You can then add mica powder for extra pigment. I used a combination of a deep berry and a bright pink. You can also add some bronze or purple mica to the mix for a more complex color palette.
Start with a little and add more until you get the color you want. I included the exact amounts I used in the recipe below, but you can add more or less depending on your preferences. The more pigment you add, the stronger and bolder the color will be.
- Use 1/4 to 1 teaspoon of cocoa powder AND 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of mica powder.
- OR use 1-2 teaspoons of natural mineral powder in your color of choice
It is difficult to find a powder blush without titanium dioxide, which can be toxic if inhaled as dust. Once mixed into a cream or lotion, it doesn't seem to have the same toxicity concerns. If you don't have a baking powder you already like, then use the cocoa powder and mica option. Plant-based pigments such as ground beets they produce a harsh product that doesn't add much color to the skin.
How to apply it
I usually use a blush brush to apply this but you can easily use your fingers. You'll want to dab a little on your cheekbones and then rub it towards your temples in small circles. The exact placement depends on the shape and color of your face.
If you have a really dry skin type, you may need to apply moisturizer or primer to your face first. I think the shea butter gives this a creamy, moisturizing feel that works well on the foundation.
Fry with natural cream at home
Yield: 1 ounce
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If you make the simple version… just mix organic lotion and 1-2 teaspoons of mineral powder (or mica powder and cocoa powder) to get the desired color and consistency.
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For the complete cook: Melt the shea butter and emulsifying wax in a double boiler until completely melted.
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Add the aloe one at a time and mix until fully incorporated and smooth.
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Turn off the heat and slowly add the colors. Add the mica and cocoa powder a little at a time until the desired color is achieved.
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Dip the tip of a spoon into the mixture and let it cool for a few seconds. Test the color and coverage on your cheek or the back of your hand to make sure you've achieved the right tone for your skin.
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Spoon mixture into desired container and allow to cool.
Instead of mica and cocoa powder, you can use 1-2 teaspoons of all-natural mineral powder. Choose a natural mineral powder blush in your chosen color.
Additional tips
- For a powder version, see this recipe and look My other homemade makeup recipes here.
- Adding colors (mica powders and cocoa powder) to a pre-made lotion will create a very soft blush/bronzer. Experiment with colors until you get the desired shade. During preparation it will appear much darker than on the skin.
- Adding more vegetable wax to your homemade lotion base will make a thicker and longer lasting blush/bronzer. Using more aloe makes for a smoother, more delicate blend.
- Adding more reddish mica powders will give a more rosy/pink shade like a blush, while more cocoa powder or bronze mica will create a bronzer or more tanned mix.
- For your eyes, try mine Natural eye shadow recipe.
Have you ever used cream blush before? Leave a comment and let us know!
