Cloud Paint
Cloud Paint
Product Description
Product overview
A seamless, buildable gel-cream blush that delivers a natural, dewy flush of color inspired by golden-hour sunsets. Cloud Paint's lightweight, pillowy formula blends effortlessly with fingertips for a lit-from-within glow that never looks streaky or chalky. Available in 10+ shades from soft peach to deep rose.
Buildable Pigmentation
Sheer-to-medium coverage that layers easily without becoming patchy or cakey. Start with a tiny dot and build to your desired intensity.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBuildable Pigmentation
Sheer-to-medium coverage that layers easily without becoming patchy or cakey. Start with a tiny dot and build to your desired intensity.
Blurring Powder Pigments
Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer creates a soft-focus effect that visually minimizes pores and texture for an airbrushed finish.
Collagen-Infused Hydration
Soluble Collagen retains water on the skin's surface, keeping cheeks looking fresh and dewy rather than dry or chalky.
Finger-First Application
Designed for effortless fingertip blending — no brushes or sponges needed. The pillowy formula melts seamlessly into skin on contact.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree of retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, oxybenzone, and other ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. Considered safe by dermatologists for use while pregnant or nursing.
Contains Sorbitan Isostearate, Polyglyceryl-2 Triisostearate, Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate, and Dicaprylyl Carbonate — esters that may feed Malassezia yeast and trigger fungal acne flare-ups.
Silicone-based formula without heavy oils or waxes. Unlikely to clog pores for most skin types, though individual sensitivity varies.
Formulated without parabens, formaldehydes, phthalates, mineral oil, sulfates (SLS/SLES), triclosan, and coal tar. Contains less than 1% synthetic fragrance.
Glossier does not test on animals. Cloud Paint is certified cruelty-free. Note: not currently certified vegan due to Soluble Collagen (animal-derived) and Carmine (CI 75470) in some shades.
Cyclopentasiloxane and Methyl Trimethicone form the base of the formula. These silicones are generally well-tolerated but may bother those who prefer silicone-free products.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSoluble CollagenHydrating
A large-molecule collagen derived from animal or fish sources. It sits on the skin's surface as a humectant, retaining moisture and creating a dewy, plump appearance on cheeks. It does not penetrate the skin to boost internal collagen levels.
- Function: Film-forming humectant that retains high amounts of water on skin's surface
- Benefit: Provides a fresh, dewy look and prevents the blush from drying down chalky
- Note: Not suitable for vegans — derived from animal or marine sources
Methyl Methacrylate CrosspolymerBlurring
A spherical polymer powder that acts as a soft-focus agent. It scatters light to visually minimize the appearance of pores, fine lines, and textured skin — giving Cloud Paint its signature airbrushed finish.
- Function: Light-diffusing, pore-blurring micro-powder
- Benefit: Creates a seamless, soft-focus effect without heavy coverage
- Irritancy: Non-irritating; comedogenicity rating of 0
Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane CrosspolymerTexture
An elastomeric silicone powder with a soft rubber inner core and a harder resin outer shell. It gives Cloud Paint its uniquely bouncy, pillowy texture and contributes to the mattifying, soft-focus effect.
- Function: Sensory modifier that creates a silky, cloud-like feel
- Benefit: Provides a velvety-smooth application and line-filling effect
- Available in: Various particle sizes — larger particles offer greater pore-filling effect
GlycerinProven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture from the environment into the skin. In Cloud Paint, it helps maintain a hydrated, dewy finish and prevents the formula from drying out on cheeks.
- Source: One of the most well-studied and proven humectants in cosmetics
- Benefit: Keeps the blush looking fresh and prevents a chalky finish over time
- Safety: Comedogenicity 0 — non-irritating for all skin types
MicaPigment
A natural mineral that provides a subtle shimmer and helps with pigment dispersion. In Cloud Paint, mica gives the formula its luminous, lit-from-within quality without looking glittery or overly sparkly.
- Function: Color additive and light-reflecting mineral
- Benefit: Adds natural luminosity and helps pigments blend smoothly
- Irritancy: Generally well-tolerated; comedogenicity 0
27 ingredients (Beam shade)
Water/Aqua/Eau, Cyclopentasiloxane, Methyl Trimethicone, Butylene Glycol, PEG-10 Dimethicone, Mica, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Glycerin, Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer, Sorbitan Isostearate, Pentylene Glycol, Magnesium Sulfate, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Ethylhexylglycerin, Aluminum Hydroxide, Disodium EDTA, Soluble Collagen, Polyglyceryl-2 Triisostearate, Silica, Tin Oxide, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499), Carmine (CI 75470), Red 30 Lake (CI 73360), Yellow 6 Lake (CI 15985).
Note: Colorant ingredients vary by shade. Some shades contain Carmine (not vegan).
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply Cloud Paint after foundation/concealer and before setting powder. Can also be used on bare skin with just moisturizer and SPF for a minimalist "no-makeup" look.
How to use
HOW TO USESqueeze a Tiny Dot
Gently squeeze a pea-sized amount (or less) onto your fingertip. A little goes a very long way — you can always add more.
Dab onto Cheeks
Place the product on the apples of your cheeks first, then use your fingertips to tap and blend upward and outward toward your temples.
Build & Blend
Layer additional dots for more intensity. The gel-cream formula remains workable for 30+ seconds, giving you plenty of time to blend seamlessly.
Mix Shades (Optional)
Combine two Cloud Paint shades on the back of your hand before applying for a custom color. Glossier recommends mixing blush and bronzer shades for a multidimensional look.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You love a natural, "flushed-from-within" look
- You prefer finger application over brushes
- You want a beginner-friendly, mistake-proof blush
- You gravitate toward the "no-makeup makeup" aesthetic
- You want buildable, sheer-to-medium coverage
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe makeup
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia) — formula contains ester triggers
- You prefer full-coverage, highly pigmented blush
- You want a fully matte finish with zero dewiness
- You need a vegan formula (contains Collagen and Carmine in some shades)
- You dislike squeeze-tube packaging — can dispense too much product
- You want a powder blush that sets instantly
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe silicone base absorbs reasonably well, but the dewy finish may add unwanted shine on very oily areas. Setting with powder helps extend wear time.
The gel-cream texture with Soluble Collagen and Glycerin provides a hydrating, dewy finish that looks beautiful on dry skin without clinging to flaky patches.
Performs well across different face zones. The lightweight formula doesn't overwhelm oilier areas while still adding glow to drier cheeks.
Dermatologist-tested and fragrance-free. Free of common irritants like parabens and sulfates. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5), but NOT fungal acne safe. Contains esters like Sorbitan Isostearate that may trigger Malassezia. Safe for regular acne-prone skin in most cases.
Results timeline
ONGOING USEInstant Natural Flush
Cloud Paint delivers visible, buildable color from the very first application. Cheeks appear naturally flushed with a dewy, lit-from-within glow. The blurring pigments create an immediate soft-focus effect on pores.
95% noticed instant natural-looking colorMid-Day Wear Check
The formula holds up well through the day with minimal fading. Color remains visible and true-to-tone. Slight reduction in dewiness on oilier skin types but overall strong performance.
80% reported color still visible without touch-upAll-Day Longevity
With proper application and optional setting powder, Cloud Paint can last a full workday. Reviewers noted the color barely faded over 8 hours. Some fading may occur on very oily skin without powder.
70% reported good wear through a full dayLong-Term Value
A single tube lasts 3–6 months with daily use since only a tiny amount is needed per application. Users report becoming more skilled at building and blending with practice, achieving even better results over time.
85% said one tube lasted several monthsRatings by platform
8K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely easy to apply and blend — truly beginner-proof
- Beautiful, natural "flushed-from-within" dewy finish
- A little product goes a very long way — lasts months
- Lightweight, comfortable gel-cream formula
- Wide shade range with universally flattering colors
- Buildable from sheer wash to noticeable flush
- Doesn't settle into pores or emphasize texture
- Adorable, iconic paint-tube packaging
- Travel-friendly compact size (under 100 ml)
Criticized
- Squeeze tube can be messy — easy to dispense too much
- New tubes sometimes "explode" on first opening
- Small size (10 ml) feels expensive at $22
- Too sheer for those who prefer bold, pigmented blush
- Dewy finish may not last on very oily skin without setting powder
- Not vegan (contains animal-derived Collagen and Carmine)
- Not fungal acne safe
- Some shades look different on skin vs. the tube color
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESThe closest drugstore dupe available. Same water-based gel-cream texture and buildable formula. Slightly more runny/watery consistency than Cloud Paint. Six shades that closely mirror Cloud Paint's range. Oil-free and fragrance-free. Allure Best of Beauty winner.
Doe-foot applicator is easier to control than Cloud Paint's squeeze tube. Similar creamy, buildable pigmentation and dewy finish. Slightly more pigmented out of the tube. Available at Ulta and Walmart. Great performance-to-price ratio.
Water-based, creamy formula in a squeeze tube similar to Cloud Paint. Natural, buildable finish. Shade "Nude Flush" is a close dupe for Cloud Paint in Dusk. Slightly more pigmented formula that requires careful blending.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDERare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store upright in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed to prevent the formula from drying out.
Plastic squeeze tube with screw-on cap — designed to look like a paint tube. Squeeze gently to control dispensing.
Yes — 10 ml is well under the 100 ml TSA carry-on limit. Compact tube fits easily in any makeup bag or pocket.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. Glossier Cloud Paint is considered pregnancy and breastfeeding safe. It does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, oxybenzone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients commonly flagged as unsafe during pregnancy. It is free of parabens, phthalates, and formaldehydes. Multiple dermatologist-reviewed pregnancy-safe product lists include Cloud Paint as a safe choice for expecting and nursing mothers.
No. Cloud Paint is NOT considered safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). It contains several ester ingredients — Sorbitan Isostearate, Polyglyceryl-2 Triisostearate, Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate, and Dicaprylyl Carbonate — that are known to potentially feed Malassezia yeast and may trigger or worsen fungal acne breakouts. If you are prone to fungal acne, consider an alternative blush formula.
Yes. Cloud Paint is a color cosmetic (blush) applied on top of your skincare, so it does not interact with active ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs that you apply underneath. Simply allow your skincare to fully absorb before applying Cloud Paint on top. There are no known ingredient conflicts or contraindications.
Cloud Paint works well across most skin types but is especially suited for dry, normal, and combination skin thanks to its hydrating gel-cream formula with Soluble Collagen and Glycerin. Those with very oily skin may find the dewy finish adds unwanted shine — setting with a translucent powder can help. It is dermatologist-tested and fragrance-free, making it a good option for sensitive skin. Not recommended for fungal acne-prone skin.
Cloud Paint delivers instant results — you'll see a natural, dewy flush of color immediately upon application. Since it is a cosmetic blush (not a treatment product), there is no waiting period for results. With practice, most users become better at building and blending the formula to achieve their preferred level of color intensity.
Cloud Paint is applied as the blush step in your makeup routine, typically after foundation and/or concealer but before setting powder. For a minimal look, you can apply it directly over moisturizer and sunscreen on bare skin. Allow any skincare products to absorb fully before applying. It can also be mixed with Cloud Paint Bronzer shades for a multidimensional cheek look.
Cloud Paint has a low comedogenic rating of approximately 1 out of 5. Its silicone-based formula does not contain heavy oils or waxes known to clog pores. The blurring powder pigments (Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer) have a comedogenicity rating of 0. While individual reactions can vary, this product is unlikely to cause breakouts for most skin types. However, it is NOT safe for fungal acne due to certain ester ingredients.
Glossier Cloud Paint has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. After opening, use it within one year for optimal color payoff and formula integrity. Store upright in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed. In terms of daily use, a single 10 ml tube typically lasts 3–6 months with regular use since only a tiny dot is needed per application.
Verdict: Glossier Cloud Paint remains one of the best beginner-friendly cream blushes on the market. Its pillowy gel-cream texture, effortless finger application, and natural "flushed-from-within" finish make it a deserving cult favorite. The buildable, sheer formula with blurring powder pigments creates a beautiful soft-focus effect that works across most skin types and tones. At $22 for 10 ml, it's reasonably priced considering how little product you need per use — a single tube easily lasts several months. The main drawbacks are its squeeze-tube packaging (which can be messy), the fact it's not vegan or fungal acne safe, and the dewy finish that may not suit very oily skin. For anyone seeking an easy, natural-looking everyday blush, Cloud Paint is still the gold standard.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 3 |
Cyclopentasiloxane
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Methyl Trimethicone
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 3 |
PEG-10 Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning
|
|



