Found: The Best Blushes to Make You Look Alive in the A.M.

The best blush can go a long way in making you feel ready for the day—that’s a time-tested fact. (Who among us didn’t have a mother who ordered you to “put a little color on your cheeks” in high school?) Even so, blush had a reputation to contend with: It could feel stuffy or try-hard, reserved exclusively for dance recitals and old ladies. But if you can find a formula that works for you, it can make all the difference in your makeup routine.

Whether you’re on the hunt for the best cream blush money can buy or stocking up on a powder formula, the best blush can pull off miracles. For starters, it can make you look wide awake in seconds and add dimension, dew, and a sun-kissed warmth. And depending on the shade, finish, and placement, a dusting of blush can make you look as sweet as a cherub or give you J. Lo-worthy bone structure (or the look of it, at least).

Luckily, today’s teens aren’t as blush-adverse as we were, and the product is finally having a moment on TikTok. Ahead of the chilly weather—peak blush season, FYI—read up on the best blushes ever, below.