IT Cosmetics Magical in Mauve Vitality Cheek Stain ($24.00 for 0.13 oz.) is a rich, brightened, berry-purple with cool undertones and a soft, frosted finish. Kevyn Aucoin Neolita (P, $37.00) is warmer. MAC Hot Nights (LE, $21.00) is similar. NARS Oasis (P, $29.00) is more muted, warmer. MAC Restores Dazzle (LE, $21.00) is a cream product. See comparison swatches / view dupes.

It’s intensely pigmented–a little goes such a long way! If you prefer a very foolproof blush, you might look elsewhere, as this requires a very feathery touch to control just how much gets applied. The powder itself has a soft, buttery, and silky consistency, so it is easy to blend out on the skin and diffuse for softer color. It’ll be a nice option for anyone who prefers a more pigmented blush that doesn’t require building to get true-to-pan color. As the blush gets blended and buffed onto the skin, it looks more luminous than shimmery with a light glow and a distinctive “stained” look, even though it is a powder. This shade wore well for ten hours before fading slightly along the edges.

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IT Cosmetics Magical in Mauve Vitality Cheek Stain

IT Cosmetics Magical in Mauve Vitality Cheek Stain

IT Cosmetics Magical in Mauve Vitality Cheek Stain

IT Cosmetics Magical in Mauve Vitality Cheek Stain

IT Cosmetics Magical in Mauve Vitality Cheek Stain

IT Cosmetics Magical in Mauve Vitality Cheek Stain

IT Cosmetics Magical in Mauve Vitality Cheek Stain

IT Cosmetics Magical in Mauve Vitality Cheek Stain