Cream makeup has a unique ability to melt into the skin, giving a natural, radiant finish that feels effortless. The tool you choose can transform the final result, whether you prefer a sheer tint, a sculpted look, or a soft, dewy glow. Below is a simple guide to help you find the method that suits your routine best.
Skin Prep for a Smooth Finish
Great application always starts with good skin prep. Cream products blend beautifully when the skin is clean, hydrated, and smooth. Begin with a moisturizer suited to your skin type to create an even surface.
Gentle exfoliation is also an effective step. Removing dead skin cells prevents patchiness, helps the formula glide on evenly, and improves the overall texture of your makeup. If you enjoy extra longevity, a light primer can refine the surface even further.
Fingers: Natural and Effortless
Your fingertips are one of the easiest and most intuitive ways to work with cream formulas. The warmth from your hands softens the product instantly, helping it melt into the skin.
Why we love it
- Creates a seamless, second-skin blend
- Gives great control
- No product waste
How to apply
Tap and press the product onto the skin. This gentle motion builds color without disturbing the layers underneath. For our formulas, we especially love using fingers for blush and highlighter.
Brushes: Polished and Sculpted
A dense synthetic brush offers more precision and structure, perfect for those who enjoy a defined, polished finish.
Why we love it
- Allows controlled placement
- Blends evenly and smoothly
- Easy to build intensity
Synthetic bristles are ideal for creams because they absorb less product. A rounded or angled brush works beautifully for blush and bronzer. As a side note, we do not recommend using a brush with our highlighter because it tends to absorb too much of the formula. Fingers give a much smoother glow.
How to apply
Start by working a small amount of product into the brush on the back of your hand. Then blend onto the skin using light circular or stippling motions. Build slowly for the most natural result.
Sponges: Soft and Dewy
A damp sponge creates a smooth, radiant finish that looks incredibly natural and skin-like.
Why we love it
- Buildable, even coverage
- Diffuses edges seamlessly
- Gives a soft, dewy glow
How to apply
Dampen the sponge so it expands, then squeeze out all excess water. Pick up a small amount of product and bounce it gently onto the skin. The tapping motion helps the cream blend into a soft, airbrushed finish. We love this method for blush and bronzer when you want a more soft-focus look.
Finding Your Favourite Technique
There is no right or wrong method. Each tool offers its own effect:
- Fingers for a natural, quick look
- Brush for structure and polish
- Damp sponge for a soft, seamless glow
Start with a little product, build gradually, and experiment with what feels best. Cream makeup is designed to be intuitive and easy to work with, giving you the freedom to create a look that feels uniquely yours.
