Cover Cupid’s got his arrows, but we’ve got something even better—blush! (Photo: Nars)
Cupid’s got his arrows, but we’ve got something even better—blush! (Photo: Nars)
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This Valentine’s Day, we’re blushing in the name of love—literally. Meet the shades that have stolen our hearts
Love has a funny way of announcing itself. You can try to play it cool, but it might just be written across your cheeks in 50 shades of swooning. Whether the banter is getting suspiciously flirty or you’re stealing glances over dinner, nothing says “I’m utterly smitten” quite like that telltale blush that creeps up on your face at exactly the wrong (or maybe exactly the right) moment.
Read more: Valentine’s Day 2025: 7 Indulgent gifts any beauty lover will adore
Well, it’s February 14, love is in the air, and Cupid is on the prowl. And if there’s ever a day to wear your heart on your cheeks, it’s today. But of course, just like finding true love, you can’t settle for anything less than the one. We’re talking about the kind that melts into your skin for a natural, love-struck flush. The one that makes you look effortlessly radiant, like you just stepped out of a romantic daydream.
So, in celebration of V-Day, we’re opening up our beauty vault to share our holy grail blushes that have completely swept us off our feet.
Gleami Cheek Pastel Cream to Matte Blush
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I've always loved this home-grown brand for many reasons—it's local, it's vegan, and it's accessible. So I had to try out their Cheek Pastel when they launched it two years ago, and I've been hooked ever since. It's buildable and has shades for cool and warm undertones, which is great for when you're getting ready with the girls for a night out. The formula glides onto your cheeks with a velvet-like texture and blends seamlessly on top of your base with a matte finish. Not to mention, it's unbelievably affordable. Talk about a bang on a budget!
— Quinny Tan, Senior Social Media Executive, Tatler Malaysia
See also: Valentine’s Day 2025: 6 fine and demi-fine Malaysian jewellery brands to shop for gifts
KMA Blush Bomb in Yoghurt Shake
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In a quick browse in Eve and Boy—the premier cosmetics destination in Thailand—I picked up a few cream blushes for no other reason than that they were on sale. Upon first use, not only was I surprised at how much I enjoyed the shade and the finish of the blush, (I'm someone who tends to lean more towards corals) but also at how long lasting it was. With no setting powder or spray on hand, it still got me through a sweaty day of exploring the city, and has now taken first spot in the most used blush in my collection. Under or over powder, it doesn't smudge any make up and lays perfectly on top of your skin. Bonus points is that it's super affordable!
— Keandra H'ng, Writer, Tatler Dining Malaysia
Don't miss: Valentine’s Day 2025: 7 Irresistible men’s fragrances to set the mood
Nars Orgasm Blush in Peachy Pink with Golden Shimmer
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If there were a hall of fame for blushes, Nars’ Orgasm wouldn’t just have a plaque—it would have its own golden throne. A true makeup icon, there’s a reason why this peachy-pink wonder with golden shimmer has been making its way back to countless makeup bags for decades. It’s the kind of blush that doesn’t just sit on your skin; it flirts with the light, catching every angle with a soft-focus glow that says, “Oh, this? Just my natural flush.” And the best part? It flatters just about everyone. Whether you’re fair, deep, or somewhere in between, Orgasm has a way of adapting to your skin tone like it was made just for you. Icon status: fully deserved.
— Phyll Wu, Style Writer, Tatler Malaysia
Merit Flush Balm in Le Bonbon
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I don’t love the way ‘lazy girl’ gets used as a catch-all descriptor these days, but this is my lazy girl blush and what a blush it is. I don’t muck around with neutral blushes—I always want mine to be bright and poppy, and Merit’s Le Bonbon is the perfect pink to wake up my complexion. It sheers out beautifully, and its domed shape make it almost impossible to mess up application, even when you’re getting ready on less-than-optimal sleep conditions the night before.
— Emma Chong, Digital Editor, Tatler Malaysia
Fwee Lip & Cheek Blurry Pudding Pot
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I'm all about that effortless, clean girl aesthetic, and this K-beauty Fwee Pudding Pot is my go-to. The bouncy pudding texture is so satisfying, and I love that I can build it up for more coverage or keep it sheer and dewy. It's quick, easy, and looks like my skin but better.
— Jennifer Choo, Regional Managing Editor, Tatler Homes
Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush in Joy
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Rare Beauty's Soft Pinch Liquid Blush in Joy offers a vibrant coral shade that delivers a sun-kissed, slightly sunburnt look, flattering all skin tones. Its intense pigmentation means a tiny amount goes a long way, making it both economical and enduring. The buildable formula allows for customizable application, letting you achieve your desired level of an orangey flush. If you're seeking a blush that provides a natural, radiant glow with minimal effort, Joy is a must-try.
— Raisa Zulqaisar, Writer, Tatler Dining Malaysia
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About
Phyll Wu is the Style Writer of Tatler Malaysia. Based in Kuala Lumpur, she's an avid fashion geek who loves all things beauty, pop-culture, and film.
