As we weigh our makeup options this summer, one category stands out: the creamy balm. This choice tends to be more versatile, blendable, and lightweight than other formula finishes. “A balm will melt into your skin, giving you a natural glowy finish,” says celebrity makeup artist Samantha Lau. “They are super easy to apply. You can dot it on your skin and blend it in with your fingers or even a brush.”
Lau praises creamy textures for adding an extra layer of hydration, making it a great option for dry skin. If your skin is on the oiler side, these ingredients might not be the best fit. Most balms amplify shine rather than minimizing it.
When it comes to makeup, having all-star products is only half the battle; your application technique matters, too. “I like to start with a bronzing color across the cheeks, forehead, and a little over the eyelids,” explains Lau. “Then I add blush into the apples of the cheeks or sometimes across the nose for a 'sunburnt' kind of a look. A great thing about balm is once your face warms up, it almost helps with the blending of the product.”
Whether you want to minimize your routine or just amp up your summer glow, save some room in your beauty bag for these innovations. Below, find the cream makeup products worth adding to your routine.
Supernatural Stick Bronzer in Neutral Tan
“This formula is creamy without being greasy, so it glides on perfectly and layers really well with other products,” says Lau. “I love the shade Neutral Tan because it is the perfect bronze for a lot of skin tones.”
Sun Melt
Consider this a sun-kissed glow in a bottle. For maximum results, use a buffing brush to add a hint of color wherever your face would typically catch the light.
Baume Essential in Sculpting
This luxe highlighter has become an industry staple because it succeeds in delivering a glassy finish. “For a super dewy look, I use this on the cheekbones, inner corners of the eye, and down the bridge of the nose,” explains Lau.
SuperDew Highlighter Balm
Tap this translucent balm anywhere on your skin—and we mean anywhere!—for a boost of radiance.
Sheer Flush Cheek Tint
When it comes to these buildable pink hues, you can be as bold or as subtle as you’d like. Keep layering the pigment until you’ve reached your desired finish.
Colour Sticks in Marzipan
The options are truly endless with this dry-cream stick. We love this sparkly shade because it can be used as a shimmery shadow, a fun blush, or a sparkly lip balm.
What The Foundation
A little bit goes a long way with this skin tint. Just a singular dab of the unique texture will give your face a light veil of coverage.
The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick
We present the hero product of the no-makeup-makeup look. Depending on your mood, you can draw on a foundation level coverage or use it as a concealer and target certain areas.