Is Illamasqua Powder Blush in Naked Rose Is The Most Versatile Blush Shade For Everyone?

Warning: Illamasqua Powder Blush In Naked Rose is not what it seems.

The delicate hue, the “naked” hint in the name, and the natural finish make this blush look unassuming… so unassuming you may be tempted to skip it.

But when you swipe it on, boy, does it tell a different story. Naked Rose is one of the most pigmented blushes I’ve ever tried – so pigmented, it looks like two different colours depending on how much you sheer it out.

If you’re looking for a versatile staple that suits every need and occasion, you’re in for a treat:

What’s In Illamasqua Powder Blush In Naked Rose?

Illamasqua Powder Blush In Naked Rose is made up of:

• Dyes: They give the blush its colour.
• Talc: It dilutes the pigment and absorbs excess oil.
• Mica: It blocks your natural skin colour so the shade applies true.

Sure, there are more on the ingredient list. But these do the bulk of the work.

Texture

Soft, smooth and finely-milled. It blends like a dream.

Colour

Illamasqua Powder Blush in Naked Rose is a medium rosy pink shade with slightly blue undertones and an almost matte finish – not the kind of shade you’d expect from an edgy brand like Illamasqua.

Pigmentation

Very pigmented. If you have pale skin, be careful (I learned it the hard way)!

Staying Power

You won’t need to retouch it throughout the day. On my dry cheeks, it stays put for about 9 hours. Then, it starts to fade slowly and subtly.

Fragrance

Vanilla. Fresh and sweet.

How To Use It

With a light hand and a big fluffy blush. It’s very pigmented, so a little goes a long way.

Perfomance & Personal Opinion

Illamasqua Powder Blush in Naked Rose looks so pale and innocent in its edgy case, doesn’t it?

And yet, it packs up quite a punch – as I discovered at my expense. The first time I used it, I simply picked up a bit of product with a big fluffy brush (like I always do), swirled it on my cheeks and…

Next thing you knew, a clown was staring back at me in the mirror… That’s how pigmented this stuff is.

With a bit of patience and a little blending, I managed to tone it down somewhat. But lesson learned. Never assume that just because a colour looks tame, it actually is. Especially if it is from Illamasqua.

Of course, my skin is very pale. If you’re a dark diva, a swipe may be subtle for you. But for most skintones in between, its pigmentation is just right.

The shade too, will suit most occasions. When applied right, it gives a neutral pink flush to the cheeks that beautifully complements both a natural look for school/work or a bold and dramatic look for a night out.

Who Is This For?

Anyone who wants a versatile blush they can use on any occasion.

Who Is This Not For?

Pale princesses who don’t like very pigmented blushes.

Packaging

Illamasqua Powder Blush In Naked Rose comes in a chic but quirky warped square-shaped compact. You only get the blush. No mirror, blush, or anything extra.

Does Illamasqua Powder Blush In Naked Rose Live Up To Its Claims?

Price & Availability

$28.00/£23.00 at Look Fantastic and Net-A-Porter

Do You Need It?

If you’re looking for a pigmented, versatile blush you can wear on any occasion, Illamasqua Powder Blush in Naked Rose is hard to beat.

Dupes & Alternatives

• Bobbi Brown Blush in Desert Pink ($33.00)
• Milani Powder Blush in Bella Roses ($7.99)

About Gio

Hi, I'm Gio. I'm a no-nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is skin coach and writer on a mission to help you achieve your best skin day ever - every day. I bust skincare myths and debunk marketing jargon to help you figure out what's worth the splurge and what's best left on the shelf - using science, not hype. I also offer skincare consultations to help you create the best skincare routine for your unique needs.