Clinique Soft Pressed Powder Blusher

I am a big fan of many Clinique Products, but I like to try new things before I buy the full size version. During a recent shopping spree I received a very generous sample of Clinique's soft pressed powder blusher. My sample contains two shades (Nude/Nude and Mocha Pink), but the original is available in 8 other shades. Because it's a sample I received two shades in one. The full-size version only contains one shade. I did receive a separate blush brush, the full-size version includes a blush applicator brush in the container.

Just like any other Clinique product, this blush is fragrance free and allergy tested. Very seldom do I have a problem with breakouts from Clinique products and this one is no exception. I've used this daily for about two weeks now and have not noticed any changes in my skin.


I'm never quite certain which shade to pick when I buy blush. Most of the time I pick something that looks great in the package but makes me look like a cheap version of Tammy Faye Baker at home. Or I pick a shade that is so dark that I look like death warmed over. I would have never picked these particular colors myself. But, as usual, my Clinique lady was right. I look good but not obviously made up.

The "Nude/Nude" shade is a very pale tan. It looks almost like a bronzer and can probably do double duty as that. Because my skin is very pale, this shade works better for me in the summer, when I have a bit of a tan. But I also use it as a contouring color, when I really want my cheekbones to stand out. I have visible cheekbones now, so why not show them off.

The second shade, "Mocha Pink", a pinkish tan. I love wearing it on days when I don't use foundation or when I feel exceptionally pale. It gives me a nice, healthy glow and I immediately feel better, because I look better.

Both shades go on equally smooth. The coverage is almost sheer, but there's enough there to notice. It blends really well. Unlike other blushes there are no obvious globs of color on my cheeks.

Staying power is also great. Very seldom do I have to re-apply it unless I have an exceptionally long day. I would easily rate this in the 10 - 12 hour range.

In a pinch this blush can also do double duty as an eye shadow. I've thrown this into my sports bag and used it on my eyes, because I left my regular shadow at home. It's not as great on my lids as it is on my cheeks, but it works.

Removal is equally easy. I use the Clinique Foaming face wash and that gets off almost anything, including the blush.

After using my trial size, this one went on my shopping list. The original size retails for $18.50 on the Clinique website and in most stores. I'm not sure if I will stay with the shades in my trial size, or if I will get adventurous and pick another shade.

I will give this an "above average" rating. The price is a bit steep for a blush, but then again it's Clinique and they are a bit pricier. So think 4 1/2 stars for this one.

Don't forget, February and March are Clinique's Bonus Time months. You'll get plenty of goodies with a minimum purchase (amount varies per store). Check the website for a store near you and exact dates.

Clinique Website: www.clinique.com