In a beauty world dominated by high-performance but potentially irritating formulas, Tower 28 BeachPlease Cream Blush has carved out its own lane as the gold standard for sensitive skin-safe makeup. With an Allure Best of Beauty Award, rave reviews from dermatologists, and a devoted following of people with rosacea, acne, and eczema, this $20 cream blush has proven that you don’t have to sacrifice performance for safety. But can a “clean” cream blush really compete with viral favorites like Rare Beauty’s Soft Pinch Liquid Blush? After testing every shade for months on sensitive skin, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about this cult-favorite product.
What is Tower 28 BeachPlease Cream Blush?
The Tower 28 BeachPlease Lip + Cheek Cream Blush (officially called “BeachPlease Luminous Tinted Balm”) is a multi-use cream blush designed for both cheeks and lips. Created by Tower 28 Beauty—a brand built specifically for people with sensitive skin—this product delivers buildable, luminous color without common irritants like silicones, fragrances, or harsh chemicals.
Product Specifications
- Product Name: BeachPlease Lip + Cheek Cream Blush
- Price: $20 USD / £18 GBP
- Size: 4.5g / 0.158 oz
- Available Shades: 9 colors (inspired by Santa Monica sunsets)
- Finish: Luminous, dewy, second-skin
- Formula Type: Cream-balm hybrid
- Key Features: Non-comedogenic, silicone-free, fragrance-free
- Certifications: Dermatologist-tested, National Eczema Association approved, cruelty-free, vegan
- Where to Buy: Tower 28 website, Sephora, Cult Beauty, Space NK
Read also: Rhode Peptide Lip Treatment Review: Is Hailey Bieber’s Lip Balm Worth the Hype?
The Tower 28 Difference: Why Sensitive Skin Matters
Before diving into the product itself, let’s talk about why Tower 28 exists. Founder Amy Liu created the brand after her own daughter developed severe eczema and struggled to find makeup that wouldn’t trigger flare-ups.
What Makes Tower 28 Different?
Non-Comedogenic Certification: Unlike brands that simply claim to be non-comedogenic, Tower 28 products undergo third-party testing to verify they won’t clog pores.
National Eczema Association Seal: One of the few makeup brands to earn this prestigious seal, meaning it’s safe for even the most reactive skin.
The “Green Zone” Philosophy: Only uses ingredients proven safe for sensitive skin—no questionable additives, no “maybe it’s fine” ingredients.
EU Compliant: Meets stricter European Union cosmetics standards, which ban over 1,300 ingredients (vs. only 11 in the US).
First Impressions: Packaging and Design
The BeachPlease Cream Blush arrives in Tower 28’s signature minimalist packaging—a clear, sturdy compact that lets you see the product inside.
Packaging highlights:
- Crystal-clear, thick plastic compact
- Tower 28 logo printed in lilac purple
- Secure snap-closure lid
- Sleek, modern, uncluttered design
- Travel-friendly flat shape
- Made with 50% PCR (post-consumer recycled plastic)
- Generous pan size (fits full-sized brush)
The packaging feels substantial and well-made—not cheap despite the affordable price. The clear design means you can always see exactly what shade you’re grabbing, which is surprisingly helpful when you own multiple shades.
Portability: The flat compact slips easily into any makeup bag and the secure closure means no messy spills or accidents.
The Formula: What’s Inside?
Texture and Consistency
Tower 28 BeachPlease formula has a unique balm-cream hybrid texture that sets it apart from other cream blushes. It’s:
In the pan:
- Semi-firm, bounc
-
y balm texture
- Feels slightly tacky to touch
- Picks up easily on fingers or brush
- More substantial than liquid blushes
During applicati
on:
- Soft, creamy glide
- Melts slightly with body heat
- Blends smoothly without dragging
- Never feels stiff or hard
After application:
- Sets to luminous, dewy finish
- Slightly tacky for first 30 seconds
- Dries down but never fully sets
- Comfortable, second-skin feel
Key Ingredients Breakdown
Green Tea Extract:
- Powerful antioxidant
- Soothes inflammation
- Protects against environmental stress
- Calms irritated skin
Aloe Vera Extract:
- Deeply hydrating
- Anti-inflammatory properties
- Healing for sensitive skin
- Adds luminosity
Mango Seed Butter:
- Rich in fatty acids
- Nourishing and moisturizing
- Non-comedogenic despite being a “butter”
- Creates smooth texture
Plant-Based Waxes (Sunflower Seed, Jojoba):
- Structure and hold
- Natural, non-irritating
- Help product adhere to skin
- Create balm-like consistency
Shea Butter:
- Moisturizing and conditioning
- Softens and smooths
- Adds creamy texture
- Skin barrier support
What’s NOTABLY Absent:
- ❌ No silicones (common irritant)
- ❌ No mineral oil
- ❌ No fragrance (synthetic or natural)
- ❌ No essential oils
- ❌ No talc
- ❌ No parabens, phthalates, or sulfates
Complete Shade Guide: All 9 Colors
Tower 28 BeachPlease shade range is inspired by the colors of Santa Monica sunsets—think warm, glowing, California vibes.
The Original Core Collection
1. Golden Hour
- Color: Warm peachy-nude
- Undertone: Golden peach
- Best for: Fair to light skin (Fitzpatrick I-III)
- Vibe: Natural, sun-kissed glow
- Intensity: Sheer to medium
- Perfect for: No-makeup makeup, everyday wear
2. Magic Hour
- Color: Soft rosy-mauve
- Undertone: Cool-toned pink
- Best for: Fair to medium skin (Fitzpatrick II-IV)
- Vibe: Romantic, ethereal flush
- Intensity: Medium buildable
- Perfect for: Cool-toned complexions
3. Happy Hour
- Color: Bright coral-pink
- Undertone: Warm coral
- Best for: Light to medium skin (Fitzpatrick III-IV)
- Vibe: Fun, energetic, summery
- Intensity: Vibrant, high-impact
- Perfect for: Making a statement
- Note: One of the most popular shades!
4. Power Hour
- Color: Deep berry-plum
- Undertone: Cool berry
- Best for: Medium to deep skin (Fitzpatrick IV-VI)
- Vibe: Bold, editorial, sophisticated
- Intensity: Highly pigmented
- Perfect for: Deeper skin tones wanting drama
5. Rush Hour (Limited Edition, now permanent)
- Color: Bright coral-orange
- Undertone: Warm tangerine
- Best for: Light to medium skin (Fitzpatrick II-IV)
- Vibe: Tropical, vacation-ready
- Intensity: Bold and bright
- Perfect for: Summer, beach days
Newer Additions
6. After Hours
- Color: Deep burgundy-berry
- Undertone: Cool-toned wine
- Best for: Medium to deep skin (Fitzpatrick V-VI)
- Vibe: Luxe, evening-ready
- Intensity: Rich and saturated
- Perfect for: Fall/winter, dramatic looks
7. Office Hours
- Color: Soft nude-pink
- Undertone: Neutral-cool
- Best for: Fair to light skin (Fitzpatrick I-III)
- Vibe: Professional, subtle, refined
- Intensity: Sheer, buildable
- Perfect for: Work, conservative environments
8. Party Hour
- Color: Hot pink-fuchsia
- Undertone: Cool vibrant pink
- Best for: Light to medium skin (Fitzpatrick II-IV)
- Vibe: Fun, playful, bold
- Intensity: High-impact color
- Perfect for: Nights out, creative looks
9. Dream Hour
- Color: Soft lavender-mauve
- Undertone: Cool lavender
- Best for: Fair to medium skin (Fitzpatrick I-IV)
- Vibe: Dreamy, editorial, unique
- Intensity: Medium buildable
- Perfect for: Creative makeup, editorial looks
Shade Selection Guide
For fair skin: Golden Hour, Office Hours, Magic Hour For light-medium skin: Happy Hour, Rush Hour, Party Hour For medium-deep skin: Power Hour, After Hours For everyday wear: Golden Hour, Magic Hour, Office Hours For bold looks: Happy Hour, Rush Hour, Party Hour, Power Hour For cool undertones: Magic Hour, Power Hour, After Hours, Dream Hour For warm undertones: Golden Hour, Happy Hour, Rush Hour
How to Apply Tower 28 BeachPlease Cream Blush
The beauty of this formula is its versatility—you can apply it multiple ways depending on your desired look.
Method 1: Finger Application (Easiest!)
Step-by-step:
- Tap your finger into the pan—you need very little!
- Warm the product between your fingertips
- Pat onto the apples of your cheeks
- Blend upward and outward with gentle tapping motions
- Build gradually to desired intensity
Why this works: Body heat from your fingers warms the balm, making it blend seamlessly.
Method 2: Stippling Brush Application
Step-by-step:
- Pick up product with a small, dense stippling brush
- Start with less than you think you need
- Stipple (bouncing motion) onto cheeks
- Blend outward with circular motions
- Layer for more intensity
Best brushes:
- IT Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe #7
- Real Techniques Stippling Brush
- Sigma F50 Duo Fibre Brush
Method 3: Beauty Sponge Application
Step-by-step:
- Pick up product with fingertip first
- Transfer to back of hand
- Use damp beauty sponge to pick up from hand
- Bounce onto cheeks for airbrushed finish
- Blend seamlessly into skin
Why this works: Damp sponge creates the most natural, skin-like finish.
Method 4: As Lip Color
Step-by-step:
- Apply balm or lip primer first (optional)
- Dab small amount onto center of lips with finger
- Blend outward to edges
- Blot and reapply for more intensity
- Top with gloss for extra shine (optional)
Performance note: Works better as a lip stain than a comfortable lip balm. Some shades can be streaky on lips.
Pro Application Tips
✅ Start small: This formula is pigmented—you can always add more ✅ Warm it up: Rub between fingers to make blending easier ✅ Work quickly: Has decent working time but blend while fresh ✅ Layer thoughtfully: Let first layer dry slightly before adding more ✅ Use on bare skin OR over foundation: Works beautifully either way ✅ Set lightly: Dust translucent powder to extend wear time ✅ Try blush draping: Perfect formula for extended blush placement ✅ Mix shades: Combine colors to create custom shades
Performance: All-Day Wear Test
Longevity and Staying Power
Bare Skin Application:
- 0-4 hours: Looks exactly as applied, full color intensity
- 4-8 hours: Slight fading, still noticeable and pretty
- 8+ hours: Has faded significantly but leaves subtle flush
- Average wear time: 6-8 hours before needing touch-up
Over Foundation:
- 0-4 hours: Perfect, no movement or fading
- 4-8 hours: Minimal fading, stays true to color
- 8+ hours: More noticeable fading but graceful
- Average wear time: 7-9 hours with good staying power
With Setting Powder/Spray:
- Significantly extends wear time to 10+ hours
- Prevents fading almost entirely
- Can last full day without touch-ups
- Slightly less dewy finish but still beautiful
The Tackiness Factor
The truth: The formula is slightly tacky, especially in the first minute after application.
What this means:
- Feels slightly “sticky” initially
- Sets down within 30-60 seconds
- Never fully dries (maintains flexibility)
- Can pick up if you touch your face too much
- Hair may stick to it if windy
Is it a dealbreaker? For most people, no. The tackiness fades quickly and the beautiful finish makes up for it. However, if you absolutely hate any stickiness, this may bother you.
Transfer Resistance
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
Tower 28 BeachPlease is NOT transfer-proof. It will:
- Transfer onto masks (though less than liquid blushes)
- Rub off if you touch your face
- Transfer slightly onto phone when making calls
- Come off on clothes when changing
However: It doesn’t transfer completely—most of the color stays put. Setting with powder helps dramatically.
Performance on Different Skin Types
Dry Skin: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- PERFECT for dry skin!
- Provides hydration while adding color
- Doesn’t cling to dry patches
- Looks dewy and healthy
- Comfortable all day
Normal Skin: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Ideal performance
- Easy to blend and build
- Beautiful luminous finish
- Lasts well throughout day
Oily Skin: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
- Can work but requires setting
- May get too shiny on oily zones
- Fades faster without powder
- Best with mattifying primer underneath
- Apply to less oily areas only
Combination Skin: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
- Works well with strategy
- Apply heavier on dry areas
- Lighter on T-zone
- Set oily areas with powder
- Good versatility
Sensitive/Reactive Skin: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- THE BEST for sensitive skin!
- No irritation, burning, or reactions
- Safe for rosacea, eczema, acne-prone
- Dermatologist-tested and approved
- Soothes while adding color
Performance on Mature Skin
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Tower 28 BeachPlease is excellent on mature skin:
- Doesn’t settle into fine lines or wrinkles
- Provides youthful, healthy glow
- Hydrating formula doesn’t emphasize texture
- Looks natural, never cakey
- Doesn’t migrate or separate
Many makeup artists specifically recommend this for clients 50+.
Tower 28 BeachPlease vs. Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush
The comparison everyone wants: How does it stack up against the viral Rare Beauty blush?
Side-by-Side Comparison
Price:
- Tower 28 BeachPlease 28: $20 for 4.5g
- Rare Beauty: $25 for 7.5ml
- Winner: Tower 28 (more affordable)
Texture:
- Tower 28: Balm-cream, bouncy, tacky
- Rare Beauty: Liquid-cream, fluid, sets fast
- Winner: Tie (personal preference)
Pigmentation:
- Tower 28: Highly pigmented, buildable
- Rare Beauty: EXTREMELY pigmented, intense
- Winner: Rare Beauty (if you want maximum color), Tower 28 (if you want control)
Ease of Use:
- Tower 28: Forgiving, easy to blend
- Rare Beauty: Requires skill, sets quickly
- Winner: Tower 28 (much more beginner-friendly)
Longevity:
- Tower 28: 6-8 hours
- Rare Beauty: 10-12+ hours
- Winner: Rare Beauty (significantly longer-wearing)
Finish:
- Tower 28: Dewy, luminous, natural
- Rare Beauty: Soft matte to semi-matte
- Winner: Tie (different preferences)
Sensitive Skin Safety:
- Tower 28 BeachPlease: Dermatologist-tested, National Eczema approved
- Rare Beauty: Generally well-tolerated but not specialized
- Winner: Tower 28 (by a mile)
Multi-Use:
- Tower 28: Works on lips AND cheeks comfortably
- Rare Beauty: Cheeks only (uncomfortable on lips)
- Winner: Tower 28
Shade Range:
- Tower 28: 9 shades
- Rare Beauty: 13 shades
- Winner: Rare Beauty (slightly better range)
The Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
Choose Tower 28 if you:
- Have sensitive, reactive, or acne-prone skin
- Want a forgiving, easy-to-use formula
- Prefer dewy, luminous finish
- Like multi-use products (lips + cheeks)
- Are new to cream blushes
- Want something more affordable
- Dislike fast-drying formulas
Choose Rare Beauty if you:
- Have normal to oily skin
- Need extreme longevity (12+ hours)
- Want maximum color payoff
- Prefer matte or semi-matte finish
- Like liquid formulas
- Don’t mind a learning curve
- Want more shade options for deeper skin
Our take: Both are excellent! Tower 28 is the better everyday, user-friendly option for most people, especially those with sensitive skin. Rare Beauty wins for longevity and drama.
Pros and Cons
What We Love ✨
- Safe for sensitive skin with certifications to prove it
- Beautiful luminous, dewy finish that looks natural
- Forgiving formula easy for beginners
- Multi-use for both lips and cheeks
- Buildable coverage from sheer to medium
- Non-comedogenic won’t clog pores or cause breakouts
- Clean formula free of irritating ingredients
- Blends seamlessly over bare skin or foundation
- Comfortable all-day wear never feels heavy
- Allure Best of Beauty winner with industry recognition
- Cruelty-free and vegan aligns with ethics
- Sustainable packaging with 50% PCR plastic
- Generous pan size fits full brushes
- Great for mature skin doesn’t emphasize texture
- Reasonable price at $20 for quality
- 9 beautiful shades inspired by sunsets
What Could Be Better 🤔
- Slight tackiness initially (though it fades)
- Not completely transfer-proof will rub off
- Moderate longevity needs touch-ups after 6-8 hours
- Can be too dewy for very oily skin
- Limited shade range for very deep skin tones
- Packaging can crack if dropped (plastic)
- Some shades don’t work as well on lips (streaky)
- Not as long-lasting as liquid cream blushes
- Can emphasize oil if not set with powder
- May be too subtle for those wanting high drama
- Lid can pop off in bags (though rare)
- Works best with setting for extended wear
Is Tower 28 BeachPlease Cream Blush Worth It?
Our Final Verdict: Absolutely YES!
The Tower 28 BeachPlease Cream Blush is one of the best cream blushes on the market, period—and it’s the undisputed champion for sensitive skin. The combination of beautiful color, skin-loving ingredients, and genuine safety testing makes this a standout in an overcrowded category.
Worth buying if you:
- Have any level of skin sensitivity
- Struggle with rosacea, eczema, or acne
- Want a natural, dewy finish
- Like easy-to-use, forgiving formulas
- Prefer multi-use products
- Value clean, safe beauty
- Are learning to use cream blush
- Want something for everyday wear
- Have dry or mature skin
Skip it if you:
- Need completely transfer-proof makeup
- Have very oily skin (without setting)
- Want maximum longevity (12+ hours)
- Prefer matte finishes only
- Need very deep shade options
- Hate any hint of tackiness
- Want liquid blush specifically
- Need extreme color payoff
Best Drugstore Dupes and Alternatives
If you love the concept but want to explore options:
Clean Beauty Alternatives
Ilia Multi-Stick ($38)
- Clean, similar multi-use
- More expensive
- Stick format
- Beautiful colors
RMS Beauty Lip2Cheek ($38)
- OG clean multi-use
- More natural finish
- Pot format
- Higher price point
Milk Makeup Lip + Cheek ($20)
- Same price
- Stick format
- More portable
- Less hydrating
Similar Performance
Glossier Cloud Paint ($18)
- More affordable
- Liquid format
- Sheer, buildable
- Minimal packaging
Rare Beauty Stay Vulnerable Melting Blush ($22)
- Cream-gel hybrid
- Similar texture
- More shades
- Slightly higher price
Drugstore Options
e.l.f. Putty Blush ($7)
- Budget-friendly
- Similar bouncy texture
- Good performance
- Limited shades
NYX Sweet Cheeks Soft Cheek Tint ($8)
- Affordable alternative
- Cream formula
- Not as clean
- Good color payoff
Maybelline Cheek Heat ($8)
- Gel-cream texture
- Drugstore price
- Not clean beauty
- Decent wear time
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tower 28 BeachPlease safe for acne-prone skin?
Yes! The formula is non-comedogenic (third-party tested) and won’t clog pores. Many users with acne report no breakouts. However, everyone’s skin is different—patch test first if you’re very reactive.
Can you use Tower 28 blush on your eyes?
Technically yes, though it’s not specifically formulated for eyes. The formula can crease without primer. If you use it on lids, apply a thin layer over eyeshadow primer and set with powder. Works better in the crease or as a wash of color.
How long does one compact last?
With daily use (applying once per day), one 4.5g compact typically lasts 4-6 months. Since the formula is pigmented and you only need a small amount, it’s very economical. Heavy users may finish in 3 months; light users can stretch to 8+ months.
Does Tower 28 blush work on lips?
Yes, but with caveats. The formula is designed for lips and cheeks, but performance varies by shade. Lighter, more neutral shades (Golden Hour, Magic Hour) work beautifully on lips. Brighter shades (Happy Hour, Rush Hour) can be streaky. Always apply over lip balm for comfort.
Is the tackiness annoying?
It depends on personal preference. The tackiness fades within 30-60 seconds as the formula sets. Most users don’t find it bothersome, especially given the beautiful finish. If you’re extremely sensitive to any stickiness, try it in-store first.
Which shade is most popular?
Happy Hour is consistently the bestseller—a bright, warm coral-pink that works on many skin tones. Golden Hour and Magic Hour are also extremely popular for everyday wear.
Can Tower 28 blush cause rosacea flare-ups?
The formula is specifically designed to be safe for rosacea and even has the National Eczema Association seal. However, rosacea triggers vary by person. The brand is transparent about ingredients, so you can check for your specific triggers. Most users with rosacea report no issues.
How do you remove Tower 28 blush at end of day?
Any gentle cleanser removes it easily. The formula isn’t waterproof, so even micellar water or cleansing balm works perfectly. No aggressive rubbing needed.
Does Tower 28 test on animals?
No! Tower 28 is certified cruelty-free and vegan. They don’t test on animals and don’t use animal-derived ingredients.
Is Tower 28 BeachPlease pregnancy-safe?
The formula uses safe, clean ingredients without concerning chemicals. However, always consult your healthcare provider about specific products during pregnancy, as individual circumstances vary.
Where to Buy Tower 28 BeachPlease Cream Blush
Official Retailers
Tower 28 Official Website
- Price: $20
- Pros: Full stock, newest shades first, loyalty program
- Shipping: Free over $50
Sephora (US & Canada)
- Price: $20
- Pros: Beauty Insider points, easy returns, testers in-store
- Shipping: Free over $35
Cult Beauty (UK & Europe)
- Price: £18
- Pros: Wide EU shipping, excellent customer service
- Shipping: Free over £40
Space NK (UK)
- Price: £18
- Pros: In-store availability, loyalty rewards
- Shipping: UK and Europe
Revolve
- Price: $20
- Pros: Fast shipping, fashion-forward curation
- Shipping: Free 2-day shipping
Shopping Tips
- Check Sephora sales: 15-20% off during Beauty Insider sales
- Tower 28 website: Sometimes offers exclusive shade launches
- Try in-store: Sephora and Space NK have testers
- Buy multiples: Stock up on favorites during sales
- Join loyalty programs: Sephora and Space NK points add up
How to Spot Fakes
Tower 28 is generally not heavily counterfeited, but be cautious:
- ✅ Buy only from authorized retailers
- ✅ Check for secure snap closure
- ✅ Verify Tower 28 logo is crisp and clear
- ✅ Ensure packaging is thick, sturdy plastic
- ❌ Avoid unauthorized Amazon sellers
- ❌ Skip suspiciously low prices
- ❌ Don’t buy from unknown international sites
Final Thoughts
The Tower 28 BeachPlease Cream Blush is that rare beauty product that manages to be both high-performance AND genuinely safe for sensitive skin. In an industry full of “clean beauty” marketing without substance, Tower 28 backs up its claims with real testing, real certifications, and real transparency.
Is it the longest-wearing blush? No. Is it the most dramatic? No. But it’s beautiful, reliable, safe, and genuinely effective—and sometimes that’s exactly what you need. The fact that it works for people with rosacea, eczema, and acne while still delivering gorgeous color is remarkable.
At $20, it hits that sweet spot between accessible and premium. One compact will last you months, the formula is foolproof, and you can feel good about what you’re putting on your skin. Whether you have sensitive skin or not, this is simply a really, really good cream blush.
Our Rating: 4.7/5 ⭐
Bottom Line: A genuinely excellent cream blush that delivers beautiful, buildable color while being safe for even the most sensitive skin. The gold standard for clean, skin-safe makeup.
Have you tried Tower 28 BeachPlease Cream Blush? Which shade is your favorite? Share your honest review in the comments! Are you Team Happy Hour or Team Golden Hour?
This review is based on extensive personal testing of multiple shades over several months on sensitive skin. We may earn commission from purchases made through affiliate links in this article, which helps support our content at no extra cost to you. All opinions are 100% honest and our own.
