the best blush of 2013: Benefit's Dandelion

I hope they don't mind that I stole their picture.

Benefit's Dandelion is one of those products I've heard about for years. It pretty much won't stop winning awards.

Unfortunately, the whole award thing raises my hackles, as it should anyone's who has ever been suckered into buying a tube of Maybelline's god-awful G----- L--- mascara,* which is easily the worst, gloppiest, smeariest mess on the planet.

And don't think I didn't notice that Dandelion comes in pink and green packaging, "just like The Mascara That Can't Be Named," she thought, suspiciously.

But when I heard that my pal Wendy has gone through three boxes of Dandelion, I had to buy it and give it a try. Even though it costs an astonishing $28.

And what do you know--I love it. In fact, I've used it pretty much every day since I brought it home.

But first, the negatives: It comes in a little green cardboard box, which is a little bulky. There is a not very-good-quality mirror inside the lid, (although I pretty much ignore it, because it tends to be covered with, duh, a thin layer of Dandelion). Also, the brush that comes with it is only OK.

That's all the criticism I can muster. For pale-faced people, this gives a perfect soft pink flush. There's a tiny bit of sparkle, but it's barely noticeable--just enough to give it a tiny lift and prevent it from looking unnaturally matte.

It also makes a nice base for a second shade of blush. This is where you fluff on your Dandelion, than use a brighter or more intense shade to add a pop of color** on the apples of your cheeks. You're probably thinking "Why bother?" but keep this idea in mind, should you be feeling more dramatic or wanting to skew a little more coral or something.

* Not only will I not link to this product, I consider it The Mascara that Can't Be Named.

** From here on, all beauty/style blogger clichés will appear in italics, to let the reader know that I realize I'm acting like an ass.