Hailey Bieber’s Rhode beauty brand has been on my radar ever since it first launched. As someone who has always been drawn to the idea of celebrity-backed beauty products, I was curious to see how Rhode would stand out in a crowded market. What intrigued me most was the brand's focus on intentionality—Rhode offers a curated selection of products that promise efficacy without the usual fanfare of overwhelming options.
When I heard about the new Pocket Blushes, I knew I had to try them, especially after the teaser campaign had me marking my calendar for the release date. Rhode products have a habit of selling out quickly, and these blushes seemed poised to follow suit.
As a beauty enthusiast who values both skincare and makeup, the idea of a product that could seamlessly blend these two worlds was incredibly appealing.
The Product: Rhode Pocket Blush
Housed in sleek, tube-like packaging reminiscent of a chic glue stick, the Pocket Blush promises easy, mess-free application—perfect for those of us who are always on the go. Each blush is infused with skin-loving ingredients like peptides and Tamanu oil, aimed at delivering a hydrating and dewy finish.
Rhode's Pocket Blush range introduces six shades: Piggy (baby pink), Freckle (neutral peach), Spicy Marg (bright coral), Sleepy Girl (soft mauve), Juice Box (hot pink), and Toasted Teddy (bronze terracotta). These shades are carefully crafted with a touch of white pigment, thanks to titanium dioxide, which ensures the colors remain true to their intended hue on various skin tones. Priced at $24 each, they sit comfortably within the mid-range market, offering an attractive option for those seeking quality without breaking the bank.
A Closer Look: Performance and Experience
When it comes to evaluating a beauty product, the real test lies in how it performs and feels on the skin. Let's dive deeper into the Rhode Pocket Blush to see if it lives up to the hype.
Color Payoff
The first thing that struck me about the Pocket Blush was its pigmentation. On first swipe, the color payoff is impressive—vivid and bold. Initially, I was concerned that it might be too intense, but with a bit of blending, the product sheers out beautifully, leaving behind a soft, natural veil of color. It’s worth noting that a little goes a long way; a single swipe is often enough to achieve a fresh, flushed look.
While the Rhode blushes are buildable for a more pronounced look, if you're seeking stronger pigmentation right from the start, products like the Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush or the Saie Dew Blush might be more up your alley.
Formula and Feel
The formula of the Pocket Blush is incredibly lightweight, a feature that aligns well with the overall ethos of the Rhode brand. The inclusion of tamanu oil, a thick, fatty acid-rich oil known for its anti-inflammatory properties, is a thoughtful touch that not only adds hydration but also supports collagen production.
However, this oil also contributes to a slightly greasy feel, which might not be everyone’s cup of tea, especially if you have oily skin. Despite this, the blushes remain dewy rather than overly shiny, offering a sheer wash of color that looks incredibly natural once blended into the skin.
Buildability
While Rhode markets the blushes as buildable, it’s important to note that they have a satin finish, which means they retain a slight sheen even when layered. If you prefer a matte look, you’ll likely need to set the blush with a powder, though this can dull the vibrancy of the color. For those who enjoy a more dewy, fresh-faced finish, the satin texture is perfect—it offers a radiant glow without feeling heavy or greasy.
Packaging
Now, let’s talk about the packaging. For a product dubbed “Pocket Blush,” I expected something a bit more compact. My first impression upon receiving the blush was that it felt bulkier than anticipated. While the tube’s ergonomic design is easy to hold and apply, it doesn’t quite fit the “pocket” description as well as I had hoped. If portability is a key factor for you, this might be a drawback.
The thicker tube feels a bit toy-like and doesn’t quite match the sleek, minimalist aesthetic that the rest of the Rhode line embodies. It’s functional, but perhaps not as refined as I would have liked. While the Rhode Pocket Blush has its merits, I find the Milk Makeup Blush Sticks more convenient for on-the-go use, thanks to their compact packaging.
The Final Verdict
Rhode’s Pocket Blush offers a delightful fusion of skincare and makeup, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a natural, dewy finish with added skincare benefits. The pigmentation is impressive, and the formula is thoughtfully crafted to nourish the skin while adding a touch of color.
However, if you’re someone who gravitates towards highly pigmented, matte blushes, this might not be the product for you. The slightly greasy feel, due to the tamanu oil, and the bulkier packaging are factors to consider before purchasing. While I admire Hailey Bieber’s commitment to creating products that are both functional and skincare-focused, the Pocket Blushes may not replace my go-to blushes for everyday use.
If you’re looking for a blush that enhances your natural beauty with a sheer wash of color and offers the added bonus of skincare benefits, Rhode’s Pocket Blush could be a worthy addition to your makeup bag. But if portability and high pigmentation are your top priorities, you might find better options elsewhere.
As for me, while I won’t be carrying these blushes around in my pocket, I’ll certainly be reaching for them when I want a fresh, radiant look that’s as good for my skin as it is for my appearance. What did you think about these pocket blushes?
Love,
Rae
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