Beauty Find: A Pain-free Pinch of Color

Ever wish that pretty just-hit-the-gym flush could last all day? Tarte’s Cheek Stain goes the distance. You don’t even have to resort to that painful and fleeting cheek-pinching maneuver. The water-based gel comes in a super-portable compact push-up stick that’s easy to toss in your bag and take on the go, but don’t count on having to reapply too often. The name’s no lie: this stuff will stain your cheeks with a natural wash of color that won’t come off until you want it to. This ultrawearable must-have even does double duty as a quick lip pick-me-up, too.

Because it isn’t sticky or drying, Cheek Stain is a hit with celebs, brides, and makeup artists who depend on all-day color that’s a cinch to apply. Tarte serves up seven glossy shades to choose from, so there’s a version of the fruit-juicy gel for every skin tone. Dab some on with your fingers after a good face washing, or blot straight from the stick over foundation or powder. Make sure you take the time to blend, though; the bright shock of color you get upon application could end up making you look like Bozo the Clown if you don’t do a quick color massage before heading out the door. Another warning: this stain is intense, so it could end up highlighting blemishes rather glossing over them.
Price: $28
Available: Sephora.com