Glossier Cloud Paint Review: The Cream-Gel Blush That Changed How We See Makeup
Glossier's Cloud Paint redefines easy, natural, and versatile blush with a user-friendly formula and vibrant shades.
If you’re searching for a blush that promises seamless, natural-looking color, minimal effort, and versatility across skin tones, Glossier’s Cloud Paint remains a must-have staple in modern beauty routines. Since its debut, Cloud Paint transformed daily makeup application with its gel-cream texture, blendability, and art-inspired packaging. This review synthesizes consumer feedback, in-depth product analysis, and hands-on experience to answer the pressing question: does Cloud Paint live up to its cult status?
Why Cloud Paint Is Worth Talking About
- User-friendly formula: Pillowy gel-cream consistency for easy application with fingers.
- Buildable pigment: Sheer color that can be layered for a customized look.
- Multiple shades: Designed to flatter a wide spectrum of skin tones.
- Iconic packaging: Paint tube-inspired design that nods to creativity.
- Multi-use: Many fans also use it on lips and eyes.
Cloud Paint Overview
Glossier Cloud Paint was first launched in 2017 as a response to the demand for easy-to-use, natural-looking blushes. The formula is described as a lightweight gel-cream, carefully designed for seamless blending. Inspired by gradient pink sunsets in New York City, each shade attempts to mimic the healthy glow of flushed skin.
The range originally featured four colors, but has since expanded to ten:
- Puff: Super pale pink
- Beam: Soft peach
- Haze: Berry pink
- Dusk: Nude pink brown
- Dune: Golden tan
- Additional shades include Eve, Puff, and more, available in blush and bronzer variants
Packaging and Ingredients
- Size: 10ml plastic squeeze tube
- Design: Inspired by acrylic paints – aesthetic and functional, maintaining its shape and allowing access to all the product
- Main ingredients: Collagen for hydration, blurring powder pigments for soft-focus finish
- Formula: Water-retentive for freshness and dewiness; lightweight and non-heavy
- Texture: Creamy, thin (dispense with care), spreads evenly
Application Experience
First Impressions
Most reviewers agree the tube is small but packed with pigment, requiring only a tiny dot for noticeable effect. On swatch, the color appears vibrant, while the consistency remains lighter than expected, reminiscent of moisturizer. There’s a mild scent, described as similar to skincare.
How to Apply Cloud Paint
- Fingers: Squeeze a tiny amount, dot on cheeks, and blend gently for seamless coverage
- Brush: Some prefer this method for less mess, but fingers yield the most control and minimal product waste
- Blending: Dabbing and smoothing is easy; the product rarely pills or looks patchy, even on combination or textured skin
- Layering: Start light and layer for more color intensity; hard to overdo
What others are reading
Key tip: A little goes a long way—avoid squeezing the tube too hard! The formula dries to a matte yet glowing finish without flaking.
Swatch Table: Original Core Shades
| Shade | Color Family | Finish | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Puff | Pale pink | Matte, natural | Fair to medium skin with pink undertones |
| Beam | Peach | Matte, natural | Fair to medium skin needing warmth |
| Haze | Berry pink | Matte, deeper | Medium to deep skin or bold blush looks |
| Dusk | Nude brown-pink | Matte, subtle | All skin tones, natural nude effect |
| Dune | Golden tan | Sheer, glowy | Warm undertones, bronzed looks |
Results: Color Payoff, Longevity, and Finish
Color quality: Delivers a natural, luminous glow without looking heavy. Pigment is sheer, yet bright, with buildable coverage. The finish is soft, diffused, and does not accentuate pores or texture.
Drydown and wear: Dries rapidly to a weightless matte finish with a slight healthy sheen. Most shades last between 5–6 hours before noticeable fading, though deeper shades (like Haze) last a bit longer. Some users with oily skin report shorter wear time and occasional fading, though most experience no flaking or patchiness.
Multi-use: Fans use Cloud Paint not only as blush but also dabbed on eyes and lips for a monochromatic look. Eve is particularly popular for its rosy-cheeked flush and versatility.
User Experiences
- Positive: Many praise the natural look, smooth application, and color selection. “Colour is incredible and really well pigmented. Multi-use as a blush, liquid eyeshadow and lip tint”.
- Shade notes: “Puff has been the cutest baby pink color on me. Cloud Paint is tried and true, a staple I keep coming back to for formula and pigment.”
- Criticism: Some wish for a bigger tube, noting the product runs out quickly or doesn’t last on skin as long as desired, especially on oily or combination skin types.
- Longevity complaints: “It’s so pretty and easy to use, the problem is that it doesn’t last on my skin, not even an hour and the color is gone :(“
Who Should Try Cloud Paint?
Cloud Paint is ideal for:
- Beginners in makeup: User-friendly, hard to overdo, forgiving formula
- Fans of natural looks: Sheer, buildable pigment that looks like “your skin but better”
- Those with sensitive or textured skin: No accentuation of pores or patchiness
- Multi-taskers: Those who want blush, eyes, and lip tint in one tube
- Travelers: Compact tube, easy to carry
Potential Drawbacks
- Tube size: 10ml can run out quickly for daily users
- Longevity: Less than optimal for very oily skin or humid climates
- Color intensity: Very sheer—may require layering for more drama
Comparing Cloud Paint To Other Blushes
| Feature | Glossier Cloud Paint | Cream Blushes (Average) | Powder Blushes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Finish | Seamless, natural, semi-matte | Dewy or matte | Matte, satin, shimmer |
| Application | Fingertips, brush, easy layering | Brush, some finger-friendly | Brush only |
| Staying Power | 5–6 hours average | 4–7 hours | 6–10 hours |
| Portability | High (compact tube) | Variable | Palettes, compacts |
| Skin Texture Friendly | Yes (does not accentuate texture) | Varies | Can highlight dryness/texture |
Creative Tips: Getting the Most Out of Cloud Paint
- Layer two shades: Use a lighter shade on apple of cheeks and a deeper one near cheekbone for natural gradient
- Mix for custom colors: Blend Puff and Beam for a baby peach pink, Haze and Dusk for a berry nude
- Highlight with Beam: Dab above cheekbones for subtle radiance
- Eyes and lips: Apply a tiny dot to lids or lips for a soft monochrome look
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I choose the right Cloud Paint shade for my skin tone?
All shades are designed to suit a wide range of skin tones. Lighter shades like Puff and Beam suit fair skin best, while deeper options like Haze and Dusk work for medium and deep skin. Consult swatch tables and try mixing for a perfect match.
Is Cloud Paint suitable for oily skin?
Although designed for all skin types, wear time may be shorter on oily skin. Setting with translucent powder or layering may improve longevity.
Can I use Cloud Paint with other face products?
Yes, it layers well over bare skin or foundation. Avoid layering over heavy powders for best blending.
Is Cloud Paint cruelty-free?
Glossier is a cruelty-free brand and Cloud Paint is not tested on animals.
Is the scent noticeable?
Scent is minimal and reminiscent of a gentle moisturizer. It fades quickly after application.
Final Thoughts: Is Cloud Paint Worth the Hype?
Glossier Cloud Paint succeeds as an innovative blush distinguished by its easy application, blendability, and natural finish. Its creamy gel formula is nearly fool-proof and enhances the complexion with just a tap. While the tube is small and the lasting power may not suit everyone, the versatility and color range make it a worthwhile addition to the makeup bags of those seeking effortless beauty. For those prioritizing ease and a skin-first look, Cloud Paint is the gold standard in cream blushes.
Alternatives to Cloud Paint
- Becca Beach Tint: Similar gel texture, comparable tube size
- Milk Makeup Lip + Cheek: Creamier, more robust pigmentation
- Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush: More shades, greater longevity
Where to Buy
Cloud Paint is available directly from Glossier’s website and select retail partners. Price averages $22 per 10ml tube.
References
- https://www.livethatglow.com/glossier-cloud-paint-bronzer-review/
- https://thebeautylookbook.com/2017/03/glossier-cloud-paint-review-and-swatches.html
- https://www.portraitofmai.com/2017/04/glossier-cloud-paint-in-dusk-swatches.html
- https://www.spacenk.com/us/inside-space/most-wanted/glossier-cloud-paint-blush-review.html
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a63845397/glossier-cloud-paint-review/
- https://intothegloss.com/2017/03/glossier-cloud-paint-blush/
- https://polishedandinspired.wordpress.com/2020/03/12/review-glossier-cloud-paint-cream-blushes/
- https://allisonbarberamakeup.wordpress.com/2019/06/25/product-review-glossier-cloud-paint/
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