REVIEW: 3 Concept Eyes (3CE) Gradation Bold Blush in Plum Candy

I finally got back from my short vacation and wanted to share with you guys the blush I have been using -- The 3 Concept Eyes Gradation Bold Blush in Plum Candy!

This blush from 3CE comes in a gorgeous and shiny hot pink plastic compact that is easy to pop open and close shut. I adore this packaging because it's bright and stands out! It very different from 3CE's usual all black packaging. Unfortunately, this blush isn't exactly travel-friendly since there is no mirror or brush/puff included. I love products that I'm able to carry along in my purse for a quick touch-up. The packaging itself feels durable and sturdy.

When using blush, I tend to lean toward the coral side of shades because of my medium complexion and I feel like coral shows the best on my cheeks. However, I love how this is a unique blush that's universally friendly for all complexions!

This blush is unique because it's not one individual shade. It's a mixture of multiple colors that work really well and compliment each other. The blush starts off as a soft baby pink at the top and has a ombre effect that slowly changes to a pale lavender shade. The shades in this blush (used individually or together) isn't very intense, which I prefer for a natural flush and color to the cheeks. The blush is definitely buildable by layering on more color and is perfect for a lively look (especially for the summer)!

If you're afraid that a gradation blush is too bold for you, don't be afraid of this one! When swatched the shades look very similar to each other. This means that they go very well together since there isn't a huge distinct difference from when the pink switches to a purple, but it's also a bit disappointing because it's hard to tell the purple from the pink. At first glance, the blush looks like a soft plum shade and I can't tell the difference between the colors when applied on my cheeks.

I'm definitely a fan of products that have multiple uses or can be used to create different looks and this is one of the products. Here are some ways you could wear and style this blush:

1) Use the brush as separate colors, pink or purple, and wear them alone.

2) Swirl your blush brush onto the compact, mixing together the two shades and creating a light pinky-lavender shade and apply to the cheeks

OR,

3) Use it as a gradation blush by simply tapping your blush brush on the blush to pick up enough powder and sweeping it across the cheeks. Start from the inner cheeks and sweeping the brush outwards towards the edges of your face. Be sure to use the part of your brush that picked up the top pink pigments in the inner parts of your cheeks.

The blush itself is a nicely pigmented powder that isn't chalky. It's very easy to apply and to build the color by layering because it doesn't look cakey.

The 3CE Gradation Bold Blush is also long-wearing which is a huge plus! It has lasted me 8+ hours; I'll put it on in the morning before a long school day and I'll come home and see that it hasn't budged at all or lost its color.

PROS:

Sturdy packaging
Universally friendly shade
Not chalky
Doesn't look cakey
Multiple uses
Easy to apply
Long-wearing

CONS:

Hard to differentiate between the pink and the purple
Not travel-friendly because doesn't include brush/puff or mirror

RATING: 4/5

The 3 Concept Eyes Gradation Bold Blush in Plum Candy retails for $25.99 and can be found on Amazon, HERE!

Disclaimer: This product was sent to me for reviewing purposes; all reviews are, and will always be, my own 100% honest opinions.