There's a certain je ne sais quoi to the natural glow of flushed cheeks and rosy lips. Of course, not all of us are blessed with a perpetual glow and just-bitten pout. But the good news is that the makeup industry has done its best to give us what nature should have through the ingenious invention of lip and cheek stains. That said, while some of these products have forever earned a place in our readers' makeup bags, others have wound up in the trash.
Now, before you go tossing your product, you want to make sure you're using it correctly. We won't lie, these stains can be tricky -- especially when it comes to cheeks. So here are some tips for getting the best results:
Step 1: Choose the right stain
Pick a shade that complements your skin tone. Keep in mind that cheek stains look darker in the bottle than on your skin. Test before you buy, or purchase at a drugstore that will accept returns after use.
Step 2: Prep your skin
Wash your face with an exfoliating cleanser. This will slough off dead skin and help even out your skin tone. Then, apply a light moisturizer all over your face and neck. If you use liquid foundation, blend it into your skin before cheek stain application. If you're more of a powder girl, apply after your cheek color.
Step 3: Apply stain
Use your fingertips or a beauty blender and smile as you blend the color onto the apples of your cheeks. If you're using a liquid stain, make sure to blend quickly (and wash hands right after unless you're using a sponge). If you end up looking clownish, rub a dab of foundation onto your cheeks to dilute the color. If you need more color payoff, layer on the product until you reach your desired hue.
Why: Many reviewers are disappointed to find that this lip stain doesn't last, contrary to its promising name. "I kept hearing great things about the lasting power of this product, but I got it in two different colors and it didn't last very long at all," says one reviewer. Many users complain of an unpleasant scent and taste, adding that the product left their lips "dry" and "cracked" -- an overall letdown.
Why it's great: Readers say they love this product because of it's buildable color, as well as the many skin benefits it provides. "Stila claims that it reacts to your skin's pH level to create a perfect, personalized hue," says one informed reader. "Also included are glycerin, antioxidants to protect and nourish skin, and Vitamins A, C, and E."
Users also claim the product is "fast-acting if you want rich color on your lips" and doesn't leave you with a bad taste in your mouth (literally). "I wear it to amusement parks, water parks, on vacation, everywhere--and I never have to give a second thought to a touch-up," raves one reader. "Now that's something to love!"
Why it's great: Readers love that they get their money's worth with this long-lasting product. Made thicker than the original Benetint, users claim you don't have to layer it on to see a difference. "It really gives more color than Benetint and blends well, which you must do carefully so you don't wipe it off," says one user. Other readers say the color works well with all skin tones, though they caution fair skinned ladies that a little goes a long way. "This product is awesome," gushes one reader. "Especially for those days when you really don't want to wear much makeup. I apply both on my cheeks and lips and I immediately look put together."
Why it's great: "This is the one thing that never gets taken out of my purse," says one enthusiastic user. Other readers agree that this stain is an essential, describing it as "soft" and "versatile."
"It gives a nice flush to the cheeks, looks natural and lasts forever," adds another user. Two great products for the price of one? Color us impressed.
There's a certain je ne sais quoi to the natural glow of flushed cheeks and rosy lips. Of course, not all of us are blessed with a perpetual glow and just-bitten pout. But the good news is that the makeup industry has done its best to give us what nature should have through the ingenious invention of lip and cheek stains. That said, while some of these products have forever earned a place in our readers' makeup bags, others have wound up in the trash.
Now, before you go tossing your product, you want to make sure you're using it correctly. We won't lie, these stains can be tricky -- especially when it comes to cheeks. So here are some tips for getting the best results:
Step 1: Choose the right stain
Pick a shade that complements your skin tone. Keep in mind that cheek stains look darker in the bottle than on your skin. Test before you buy, or purchase at a drugstore that will accept returns after use.
Step 2: Prep your skin
Wash your face with an exfoliating cleanser. This will slough off dead skin and help even out your skin tone. Then, apply a light moisturizer all over your face and neck. If you use liquid foundation, blend it into your skin before cheek stain application. If you're more of a powder girl, apply after your cheek color.
Step 3: Apply stain
Use your fingertips or a beauty blender and smile as you blend the color onto the apples of your cheeks. If you're using a liquid stain, make sure to blend quickly (and wash hands right after unless you're using a sponge). If you end up looking clownish, rub a dab of foundation onto your cheeks to dilute the color. If you need more color payoff, layer on the product until you reach your desired hue.
