Bella Hadid, Gracie Abrams, and Zendaya are all endorsing these summer blusher trends for 2026.

      When it comes to makeup trends, nothing embodies summer quite like a splash of blush, in my opinion. Whether you choose a cream blush, a blush stick, or a liquid formula, each one has the potential to enliven your complexion, giving your skin a vibrant and healthy glow reminiscent of time spent in the sun. It's also one of the most versatile items in your makeup collection, seamlessly adding depth and radiance to a full glam look or serving as a subtle tint for bare skin, making it perfect for a "no makeup" makeup appearance.

      In recent times, blush has established itself as the standout item in our makeup kits. Its presence is hard to overlook on red carpets and the social media accounts of celebrity makeup artists. As a beauty editor, I witness new blush products being launched weekly (and almost daily, there’s a blush that goes viral on TikTok), each featuring innovative formulations and textures that will certainly influence the summer blush trends we will see in the coming months. Below, I’ve compiled some of the most stylish blush looks to try this summer, along with the top blush products to achieve them.

      1. Blurred Blush

      We’ve previously seen blurred lips and skin become defining makeup trends in 2026, so it was only a matter of time before blurred blushers made their debut. From Prada's cream-to-powder blush to the soft putty-like texture of Glossier's Cloud Paint Flush Blush, these soft matte formulas create a gentle haze of color on the cheeks that blends smoothly into the skin. Unlike their dewy counterparts that tend to fade away, blurred blushers usually come with a matte finish that adheres better, making for a long-lasting option that stays intact throughout the day and night—no vanishing acts here.

      Shop the Trend:

      - Prada: Touch Cream-To-Powder Melting Blush

      - Glossier: Cloud Paint Plush Blush

      - Ilia: Soft Focus Blurring Blush

      2. Watercolour Flush

      The subtle blushes showcased by celebrity makeup artists recently cannot be ignored, appearing alongside various watercolour blush formulas that provide a sheer wash of color. These watery tints give your cheeks a healthy glow with a stained-glass-like finish, making them appear radiant and luminous. Additionally, these sheer pigments are perfect for those who prefer a more natural and less vivid blush. One of our favorites for a water-like tint and a lasting glassy glow is Victoria Beckham Beauty's Colour Wash.

      Shop the Trend:

      - Victoria Beckham Beauty: Colour Wash

      - E.L.F: Sheer for It Blush Tint

      3. Dewy Glow

      The beauty industry has embraced a dewy aesthetic over the past few years, and it shows no signs of fading for summer 2026. Truly, a dewy blush is timeless and consistently delivers a luminous and radiant complexion, making it an ideal choice for summer. For those who appreciate a glowy blush moment, look for balmy formulations like Merit's Flush Balm, which provides a healthy sheen to the cheeks with just one swipe and remains a favorite among our beauty team.

      Shop the Trend:

      - Clinique: Chubby Stick™ Cheek Colour Balm

      - Jones Road Beauty: Miracle Balm Mini

      4. Muted Cheeks

      If vibrant and bold blushes intimidate you, this trend is perfect. Mimicking the natural flush you’d achieve after a day outdoors or a brisk coastal walk, these blushers offer a subtle hint of color without appearing overwhelming. Thanks to their creamy textures, they allow for easy control over placement and can be layered to your desired intensity without looking excessive. Rhode's Pocket Blush is a top choice for a sun-kissed look.

      Shop the Trend:

      - Hourglass: Unreal Liquid Blush

      - Fenty Beauty: Shake ‘n Play Buildable Liquid Blush

      5. Ombré Blush

      Throughout my career, I’ve interviewed numerous makeup artists, and one of the best tips I’ve learned is to use two different blush shades. This technique not only helps create a sculpted effect but also mimics the natural tonal variations over the contours of your cheeks, resulting in a more seamless and natural appearance rather than a flat or blocky look. Blush palettes are ideal for this technique, allowing for the effortless mixing and matching of complementary shades—no professional qualifications needed.

      Shop the Trend:

      - Westman Atelier: The Powder Duos Fizz + Jam

      - Dior: Backstage Glow Maximizer Palette

      - Patrick Ta: Major Headlines Double-Take Cream and Powder Blush Duo

      Why Trust Us

      At Who What Wear UK, we understand that beauty isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. Our editors have tried thousands of products, spanning skincare, makeup, hair, and nails, over the years and collaborate closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, makeup artists, and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant. We prioritize formulas that deliver results