Glossier has long been a favorite for beauty enthusiasts who love minimal makeup with maximum impact. Their original Cloud Paint (the gel-cream blush) became a cult product thanks to its natural finish and easy-to-blend formula. Now, with the release of the Cloud Paint Plush Blush (Powder Version), Glossier is taking the concept one step further—giving fans the same cloud-like flush in a soft, airy powder form. But how does it compare to its liquid predecessor and other powder blushes on the market? Let’s find out.
✨ First Impressions: The Packaging & Aesthetic
The new Cloud Paint Plush Blush stays true to Glossier’s clean, minimalist packaging, with a compact that feels fresh, trendy, and travel-friendly. Unlike the tube packaging of the gel-cream Cloud Paint, this comes in a sleek powder pan that fits seamlessly into any makeup bag.
The aesthetic is consistent with Glossier’s brand identity: playful, modern, and Instagram-worthy. If Fenty Beauty screams bold glamour and NARS represents classic chic, Glossier positions itself as effortless everyday beauty.
🧵 Texture & Formula
The biggest difference lies in the formula.
- Plush Powder Version: Finely milled, lightweight, and airy with a velvet finish. It’s designed to feel soft on the skin while still delivering pigment.
- Original Cloud Paint (Gel-Cream): Sheer, buildable, and slightly dewy, perfect for a “just-pinched” glow.
Compared to other powder blushes like Charlotte Tilbury Cheek to Chic or MAC Powder Blush, the Glossier Plush version feels less chalky, more breathable, and beginner-friendly.
🎨 Shade Range & Pigmentation
Glossier has always been known for offering universal shades that flatter a variety of skin tones. The Plush Blush continues this tradition with hues inspired by natural flushes—peachy corals, warm roses, and soft pinks.
- Pigmentation: Buildable rather than overly intense, which makes it hard to go overboard.
- Finish: Natural and soft-matte, ideal for those who dislike shimmer-heavy blushes.
Compared to Rare Beauty’s Soft Pinch Liquid Blush (super pigmented) or Fenty Beauty’s Cheeks Out Cream Blush (glossy finish), Glossier’s powder version caters to those who want a subtle, everyday glow without dramatic payoff.
💕 Application & Blendability
One of the standout features of the Plush Blush is its blendability.
- Applies smoothly with a brush or fingertips.
- Melts into the skin without emphasizing texture or pores.
- Long-lasting but still lightweight—perfect for all-day wear.
For makeup beginners, this is less intimidating than high-pigment formulas. In comparison, products like NARS Orgasm Powder Blush can sometimes look too bold or emphasize dryness, while the Glossier Plush formula feels soft-focus and seamless.
🔥 Trend Appeal: Why It’s So Popular
The Cloud Paint Plush Blush is launching at the perfect time—when clean girl aesthetics and soft glam dominate TikTok and Instagram.
- The powder finish appeals to oily-skin users who prefer matte longevity over dewy creams.
- Its natural flush taps into the no-makeup makeup trend that Glossier helped pioneer.
- It doubles as both daily wear and layering product, fitting well into the modern multitasking lifestyle.
Compared to heavy contouring and high-drama blush trends of the past, this product embraces the less-is-more philosophy.
💸 Price & Value
Glossier products sit in the mid-tier price range, making them accessible without being drugstore-cheap. The Plush Blush follows the same philosophy:
- Affordable Luxury: Positioned above Maybelline or e.l.f., but more wallet-friendly than Dior or Chanel blushes.
- Value for Money: Given its blendability and long-lasting wear, it’s an excellent buy for those who want quality without luxury pricing.
⚖️ Plush Blush vs. The Competition
- Vs. Original Cloud Paint (Gel-Cream): Powder offers longer wear and matte finish, while the gel-cream offers dewy freshness.
- Vs. Rare Beauty Blush: Rare Beauty is bolder and dramatic; Glossier is softer and more natural.
- Vs. NARS Orgasm Powder Blush: NARS is iconic and shimmery; Glossier is minimal and everyday-friendly.
- Vs. Fenty Beauty Cream Blush: Fenty is glossy and playful; Glossier is understated and chic.
This positions the Plush Blush as the go-to for everyday users who want effortless, polished beauty.
✨ Final Verdict: Who Should Try It?
The Glossier Cloud Paint Plush Blush (Powder Version) is perfect for:
- Makeup minimalists who love the natural, soft-focus look.
- Oily-skin users who prefer powders over creams.
- Trendsetters who want versatile products that fit both casual and polished looks.
- Fans of the original Cloud Paint looking for a longer-lasting, matte alternative.
If you prefer high-impact drama or shimmer-heavy blushes, you might lean towards Rare Beauty or NARS. But if your style is fresh, soft, and wearable, the Plush Blush is a must-have.
✅ Bottom Line: Glossier’s Plush Blush is a modern reimagining of its cult classic—bringing the same effortless vibe into a powder format that caters to today’s trends. It’s not just makeup; it’s a lifestyle statement of soft glam, everyday beauty, and confidence without effort.
