Brydie Editors Tried Hourglass Cosmetics’ New Unreal Liquid Blush

Blush continues to be one of the trendiest makeup categories, with new launches constantly hitting the market. To that point, Hourglass Cosmetics is one of the latest brands to debut a blush innovation, one they’re calling Unreal Liquid Blush. The beloved makeup brand is known for its easy-to-blend and long-wear formulas (like the Veil Translucent Setting Powder and Voyeur Eyeshadow Sticks)–and the liquid blush is designed to check both boxes.

The Unreal Liquid Blush features a hybrid formula fusing skincare and makeup benefits. “The Unreal Liquid Blush was expertly formulated with the perfect balance of pigments that melt into the skin for all-day wear,” director of global artistry and development Alex McCormick says.

Ahead, learn more about Hourglass Cosmetics’ summertime blush launch and Team Byrdie’s thoughts on the product.

The Product

Hourglass has called its Unreal Liquid Blush the “drop of the year.” Brand founder and CEO Carisa Janes’ says her goal was to create a liquid blush formula “that provides buildable, natural-looking color that lasts all day.”

The blush is available in seven shades, ranging from Craft (a deep berry) to Scene (a soft, warm pink). Each one gives your skin a gorgeous flush of color. “It delivers unreal, buildable color with just one drop,” McCormick notes.

The formula is powered by the “Unreal Lifting Complex,” which contains upcycled white lupin seed extract and hyaluronic acid. “The Unreal Liquid Blush was created to suit all skin types and tones,” McCormick says. It feels like a serum when applied, and it blends beautifully. The complex helps to lift and plump the skin.”

How to Use It

Hourglass designed its Unreal Liquid Blush with a precision dropper on the bottom of each container, allowing you to control how much product comes out. To use the blush, the brand advises shaking the bottle well with the cap on, then gently pressing the dropper on the bottom to dispense the product on the back of your hand. From there, you can use your fingers or a brush to apply the blush to the apples of your cheek, your cheekbones, or the bridge of your nose.

If you prefer a brush application, Hourglass developed a custom brush specifically for this blush. “We intentionally developed this formula alongside our No. 15 Blush Brush to have effortless blendability for a seamless flush of color,” McCormick says.

Our Reviews

Olivia Hancock, editor

“While I typically wear cream blushes, I’m always game to experiment. I first tried the Unreal Liquid Blush at a preview event in June, and I was immediately drawn to the product. The serum-like texture, vibrant pigment, and dropper component piqued my interest. When my makeup artist applied the blush, she dispensed one drop onto a makeup tray and used the No. 15 Blush Brush to pick up a tiny amount, noting that you can build up as you go to reach your desired intensity. When she finished applying the blush, I loved how the pigment continued to melt into my skin, providing my complexion with such a natural glow and enhanced warmth. At home, I gravitated toward the shade Vision (worn in the photo) and followed my MUA’s tips. Gradually blending one drop across my cheeks with the brush left me with a beautiful, rosy wash of color that simultaneously sculpted and lifted my face. It’s safe to say I’ll be incorporating this liquid blush into my routine quite often.”

Eden Stuart, editor

“This blush is super pigmented, which is always a pro for me, a blush lover. I got primo pigment with just a few drops, both with my fingers and brush. I preferred using a brush and might try it with a sponge at some point. I can’t say I’m enamored with the packaging—it’s way too easy to release more than you intended, in my opinion—but with a little patience, I think that could be easily mastered.”

Essence Wiley, editorial intern

“As someone who typically uses powder blush, liquids and creams can be intimidating. But Hourglass’ Unreal Liquid Blush has changed the game for me. I love bronzy, glowy makeup, especially in the summertime. I tested the shades Scene and Future, and both complemented my summer glam. I typically reached for Future the most, as the warm coral shade is perfect for a quick, easy look. The serum-like, sheer finish is perfect for my ‘no-makeup makeup’ days. Regarding application, the dropper applicator makes the process super easy and approachable. I applied it to my hand first, then blended it with my finger. Because I typically use powder bronzers and blushes, I’m still working on a routine that pairs well with this blush for when I want a more glamorous look, but I would definitely continue using this.”

Abby Dupes, associate editor

“Hourglass Cosmetics has solved my main gripe with liquid blushes of the past. While other blush applicators provide too much product that inevitably becomes wasted as I prefer a lighter flush, the Unreal Liquid Blush’s precision dropper gives me the exact amount I need. The formula is just as impressive as the bottle, too. It’s lightweight and hydrating, like your favorite hyaluronic acid serum. The color (I’m wearing ‘Vision’ here, which is best described as a freshly picked rose) is highly pigmented and buildable. I simply couldn’t be more obsessed.”