Few makeup products achieve true icon status, but NARS Orgasm Blush is undeniably one of them. Launched in 1999, this peachy-pink powder blush with golden shimmer has been gracing the cheeks of everyone from Meghan Markle to Emma Stone for over 25 years. It’s spawned countless dupes, inspired an entire product line (Orgasm lipgloss, nail polish, liquid blush, and more), and remains one of NARS’ bestselling products year after year. But in 2024, NARS reformulated their entire blush line, including the iconic Orgasm. Does this legendary blush still live up to its cult-favorite reputation? After extensive testing of both the classic and new formula, we’re giving you the complete, unfiltered truth.
What is NARS Orgasm Blush?
NARS Orgasm is a powder blush described as a “peachy pink with golden shimmer.” Created by legendary makeup artist François Nars in 1999, it was designed to be a universally flattering shade that gives cheeks a natural, healthy-looking flush. The name—while provocative—perfectly captures the flushed, glowing look the blush creates.
Product Specifications
- Product Name: NARS Powder Blush in Orgasm
- Price: $34 USD / £27 GBP / $53 AUD
- Size: 0.16 oz / 4.8g
- Color Description: Peachy pink with golden shimmer
- Finish: Luminous, shimmer
- Formula: Superfine micronized powder (New 2024 formula: Talc-free)
- Key Claims: 16-hour wear, buildable, blendable
- Where to Buy: Sephora, NARS website, Nordstrom, Space NK (UK), Mecca (Australia)
The NARS Orgasm Legacy: Why It Became Iconic
Before we dive into the review, let’s understand WHY this blush achieved legendary status:
Historical Significance
1999: François Nars launches Orgasm as part of the original NARS blush collection Early 2000s: Beauty editors and celebrities begin raving about the shade 2010s: Becomes the #1 bestselling blush at Sephora for multiple years 2015+: Spawns the “Orgasm Collection” (lip, cheek, nail, multiple variations) 2024: Complete reformulation while maintaining the cult-favorite shade
Celebrity Love
- Meghan Markle: Reportedly wore it on her wedding day
- Emma Stone: Long-time fan
- Countless makeup artists: Consider it a kit staple
- Beauty editors: Consistently name it a “desert island” product
The Dupe Phenomenon
Orgasm has been duped more than perhaps any other blush:
- Milani Luminoso
- MAC Peaches
- e.l.f. Peachy Keen
- Benefit Coralista
- The Balm Hot Mama
The fact that so many brands tried to recreate it speaks to its impact.
Read also: Tower 28 BeachPlease Cream Blush Review: Sensitive Skin-Safe Blush That Rivals Rare
First Impressions: Packaging and Presentation
NARS has always been known for minimalist, sophisticated packaging, and Orgasm is no exception.
Classic Packaging (Pre-2024):
- Black rubberized square compact
- Magnetic closure
- Clear window showing product
- Infamous for attracting dust and fingerprints
New Packaging (2024 Reformulation):
- Still black square compact
- Less rubberized, easier to clean
- Slightly different texture
- Same clear window
- More practical, less prone to mess
The packaging feels luxurious and substantial—befitting the $34 price tag. It’s the kind of compact you’re happy to pull out of your makeup bag.
The 2024 Reformulation: What Changed?
In 2024, NARS Orgasm Blush reformulated their entire Powder Blush line, making it talc-free. Here’s what changed with Orgasm specifically:
Formula Changes
Old Formula (1999-2024):
- Contained talc
- Slightly firmer, drier texture
- Required building up color
- Classic golden shimmer
New Formula (2024+):
- Talc-free
- Softer, silkier texture
- More pigmented (higher color payoff)
- Four types of pigment for true color
- Claims 16-hour wear
- Slightly more shimmer/glitter visible
Color Changes
Important note: The reformulated Orgasm looks slightly different from the original:
- Slightly more pigmented
- Shimmer particles are slightly more visible
- Overall effect is similar but not identical
- If you loved the exact original shade, consider stocking up on the old formula (if you can still find it)
The Formula: Texture and Performance
In the Pan
The reformulated NARS Orgasm Blush has a beautifully smooth, silky texture in the pan. When you swipe your finger across it, it feels:
- Soft and buttery (not hard or chalky)
- Finely milled (no visible chunks)
- Velvety smooth
- Easy to pick up product
There’s minimal fallout when tapping your brush, and the powder clings well to bristles without creating a dust cloud.
On the Skin
Application:
- Blends seamlessly into skin
- Never looks powdery or chalky
- Melts into skin for natural finish
- Easy to build from sheer to more intense
- Forgiving formula (hard to over-apply)
Texture throughout wear:
- Lightweight, never heavy
- Comfortable all day
- Doesn’t emphasize pores or texture
- Maintains smooth appearance
The shimmer:
- Golden, peachy-toned shimmer
- Not glittery (despite some reviews calling it glittery)
- Creates luminous glow, not disco ball
- More noticeable in direct sunlight
- Can be too much shimmer for some (personal preference)
The Color: Breaking Down the Shade
What Does NARS Orgasm Blush Actually Look Like?
Despite being described as “peachy pink,” Orgasm appears different on various skin tones:
On Fair Skin (Fitzpatrick I-II):
- Appears more pink
- Golden shimmer very visible
- Creates bright, healthy flush
- Can look slightly intense if over-applied
On Light-Medium Skin (Fitzpatrick III-IV):
- Perfect balance of peach and pink
- Most universally flattering range
- Natural-looking flush
- Shimmer enhances without overwhelming
On Medium-Deep Skin (Fitzpatrick V):
- Can appear too light or ashy
- Shimmer shows more than base color
- May need multiple layers
- Consider Orgasm X or Orgasm Rush instead
On Deep-Dark Skin (Fitzpatrick VI):
- Often doesn’t show up well
- Mainly see golden shimmer
- Not recommended for this skin tone
- Deep Throat or Orgasm X are better options
The Undertone Debate
Is NARS Orgasm Blush warm or cool? It’s actually neutral-warm:
- Pink base = cool element
- Peachy tone = warm element
- Golden shimmer = warm element
- Overall: Leans slightly warm but works on many undertones
Performance: All-Day Wear Test
Longevity Claims: 16-Hour Wear
NARS Orgasm Blush claims the new formula lasts 16 hours. Let’s break down reality:
Without Primer/Powder (Bare Skin):
- Hours 0-4: Full, vibrant color exactly as applied
- Hours 5-8: Still strong, slight fading on oily areas
- Hours 9-12: Noticeably faded but still present
- Hours 13-16: Subtle flush remains, mostly shimmer
- Verdict: 8-10 hours of good wear, 12+ hours with faint color
With Primer (Under Foundation):
- Hours 0-6: Perfect, no fading whatsoever
- Hours 7-12: Minimal fading, still looks fresh
- Hours 13-16: More noticeable but beautiful fade
- Verdict: 10-12 hours of strong wear, reaches 14-16 hours with fade
With Setting Powder/Spray:
- Dramatically extends wear time
- Can genuinely last 14-16 hours
- Fades gracefully rather than disappearing
- Best method for maximum longevity
Fading Pattern
One of Orgasm’s best qualities is how it fades:
- Never looks patchy or uneven
- Fades uniformly across cheeks
- Leaves a subtle, natural tint even when “gone”
- Never looks dirty or muddy
- Easy to touch up without layering issues
Transfer Resistance
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
The new formula is impressively transfer-resistant:
- Minimal transfer onto hands when touching face
- Slight transfer onto masks (but less than cream blushes)
- Doesn’t rub off on clothing
- More resistant than old formula
How to Apply NARS Orgasm Blush
Getting the most out of this iconic blush requires proper application.
The Classic Method
Step 1: Pick up product with medium-density blush brush Step 2: Tap off excess (this blush is pigmented!) Step 3: Smile to locate apples of cheeks Step 4: Apply in circular motions on apples Step 5: Blend upward toward temples Step 6: Build gradually if you want more intensity
Best brushes:
- NARS #16 Blush Brush (designed for their blushes)
- MAC 129 Powder/Blush Brush
- Real Techniques Blush Brush
- Sigma F40 Tapered Blush Brush
The “Draping” Method (Trendy in 2025)
Step 1: Apply blush higher on cheekbones Step 2: Extend up toward temples Step 3: Sweep across bridge of nose (optional) Step 4: Creates lifted, editorial look
The “No-Makeup Makeup” Method
Step 1: Use fingers instead of brush Step 2: Warm product on fingertips Step 3: Pat onto apples of cheeks Step 4: Blend with tapping motions Step 5: Ultra-natural, skin-like finish
Pro Application Tips
✅ Start sheer: Build gradually—easier to add than remove ✅ Use natural light: Check application in daylight if possible ✅ Blend, blend, blend: The key to natural finish ✅ Try it on bare skin: Can wear alone for minimal makeup days ✅ Layer under foundation: For most natural, longest-lasting effect ✅ Set with powder: Extends wear and reduces shimmer intensity slightly ✅ Use on eyes: Doubles as eyeshadow for monochromatic looks ✅ Mix with bronzer: Create custom shades
The Shimmer Question: Too Much or Just Right?
The golden shimmer in Orgasm is the most controversial aspect.
Pro-Shimmer Arguments
- Creates healthy, youthful glow
- Mimics natural skin luminosity
- Catches light beautifully
- Makes you look radiant, not flat
- Adds dimension to face
- Photo-friendly (no flashback)
Anti-Shimmer Arguments
- Can look too “glittery” in harsh lighting
- May emphasize large pores
- Not ideal for very oily skin
- Too much for professional/conservative settings
- Some prefer completely matte finish
- Can highlight texture on mature skin
Our Take
The shimmer in Orgasm is subtle and sophisticated—not chunky glitter. However:
- If you hate ALL shimmer: Skip Orgasm entirely, try Deep Throat (more matte) or Orgasm Edge (matte version)
- If you like subtle glow: Orgasm is perfect
- If you’re unsure: Try it in-store first
- If you have large pores: Apply lightly and set with powder
NARS Orgasm Blush Variations: The Entire Family
NARS Orgasm Blush has created multiple Orgasm variations over the years:
Currently Available
1. Orgasm (Original)
- The classic peachy pink with golden shimmer
- Best for: Light to medium skin, those wanting iconic shade
2. Orgasm X
- Deeper, more coral-orange
- Best for: Medium to tan skin, those finding original too light
- Note: Some find it TOO orange
3. Orgasm Rush
- Slightly deeper than original, more pigmented
- Best for: Medium skin wanting more intensity
- Limited edition turned permanent
4. Orgasm Edge (Talc-Free)
- Matte version of Orgasm
- Best for: Those who want the color without shimmer
- Note: Pulls more orange-peach than pink
5. Super Orgasm
- Orgasm with MORE shimmer/glitter
- Best for: Bold looks, evening wear
- Warning: Significantly more glitter than original
6. Liquid Orgasm
- Liquid blush version
- Best for: Those preferring liquid/cream formulas
- Different application, similar color
Discontinued/Limited Edition
- Mini Orgasm (various sizes)
- Orgasm Illuminator
- Orgasm Lip Gloss
- Orgasm Nail Polish
- Multiple Orgasm Palette
NARS Orgasm vs. Deep Throat: The Sister Shade
Deep Throat is Orgasm’s sister shade and often compared. Here’s how they differ:
NARS Deep Throat
- Color: Deeper rose-pink
- Shimmer: Less shimmer than Orgasm, more satin
- Undertone: Cooler, more pink-based
- Best for: Those finding Orgasm too peachy or shimmery
- Skin tones: Works better on slightly deeper skin
Direct Comparison
Orgasm wins if you want:
- Peachy-pink (warmer) tone
- More shimmer/glow
- Brighter, more youthful flush
- The “iconic” shade everyone raves about
Deep Throat wins if you want:
- Rose-pink (cooler) tone
- Less shimmer, more subtle
- Natural flush for deeper skin
- More “universally flattering” option
Our recommendation: If you’re torn, Deep Throat is actually more versatile for more skin tones, despite Orgasm being more famous.
Pros and Cons
What We Love ✨
- Iconic, cult-favorite status for good reason
- Beautiful peachy-pink shade that’s genuinely pretty
- Golden shimmer creates healthy, youthful glow
- Finely milled, silky texture applies beautifully
- Buildable formula from sheer to medium coverage
- Blends seamlessly never looks patchy
- Long-wearing (8-12 hours, up to 16 with setting)
- Fades gracefully throughout the day
- New formula is improved over original
- Luxurious packaging feels expensive
- Multi-use works as eyeshadow too
- Flattering on many skin tones (light to medium)
- Photo-friendly looks great in pictures
- Minimal fallout clean application
- Worth the hype genuinely special formula
What Could Be Better 🤔
- Price is steep at $34 for 0.16oz
- Not truly universal doesn’t work on deeper skin
- Shimmer can be too much for some preferences
- Not suitable for very oily skin (without setting)
- Reformulation changed it slightly from beloved original
- Shimmer may emphasize pores on some skin
- Can look too “glittery” in certain lighting
- Not appropriate for all settings (some professional environments)
- Packaging attracts fingerprints (though improved)
- May be too sheer for those wanting high-impact color
- The name can be awkward to say in some situations
- Limited shade range in Orgasm variations for deeper skin
Is NARS Orgasm Blush Worth $34?
Breaking Down the Value
Cost per use:
- 0.16oz = 4.8g of product
- With daily use, lasts 6-12 months
- $34 ÷ 6 months = $5.67/month
- $34 ÷ 12 months = $2.83/month
Compared to drugstore ($8-12):
- 3-4x more expensive
- Better texture and blendability
- Longer-lasting on skin
- More luxurious experience
- Higher quality pigments
Compared to other luxury blushes:
- Charlotte Tilbury: $40
- Tom Ford: $62
- Hourglass: $42
- Orgasm at $34 is mid-priced luxury
Our Verdict: YES, but with caveats
NARS Orgasm is worth buying if:
- You have light to medium skin tone (it’ll actually show up)
- You enjoy shimmer/luminous finishes
- You value cult-classic products
- You’re building a “forever” makeup collection
- You want a special-occasion splurge
- You prefer powder blush format
- The color genuinely flatters your skin tone
Skip it if:
- You have deep or dark skin (won’t show up)
- You hate all shimmer (try Orgasm Edge or another matte)
- You’re on a very tight budget (try Milani Luminoso)
- You prefer matte finishes exclusively
- You have very oily skin that doesn’t hold powder
- You need transfer-proof makeup
- The price feels unreasonable for your budget
Best Drugstore Dupes for NARS Orgasm
If you love the idea but not the price tag:
Top Dupes
1. Milani Luminoso ($9)
- Similarity: 90% dupe
- Differences: Slightly more orange, chunkier shimmer
- Verdict: Best overall dupe, incredible value
2. e.l.f. Putty Blush in Turks and Caicos ($7)
- Similarity: 85% dupe in color
- Differences: Cream format, different texture
- Verdict: Great if you prefer cream blush
3. MAC Peaches ($27)
- Similarity: 80% dupe
- Differences: Slightly less shimmer, more matte-satin
- Verdict: Mid-priced alternative, different finish
4. Wet n Wild Color Icon Blush in Pearlescent Pink ($5)
- Similarity: 75% color match
- Differences: More sheer, less luxury feel
- Verdict: Budget-friendly option
5. Benefit Coralista ($32)
- Similarity: 70% similar vibe
- Differences: More coral, different shimmer
- Verdict: Similar price, different character
Luxury Alternatives
Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Blush ($40)
- Similar peachy-pink family
- Different shimmer type
- More expensive
Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in Dim Infusion ($42)
- Luminous finish
- More complex formula
- Higher price point
Frequently Asked Questions
Is NARS Orgasm blush good for mature skin?
Yes, but with considerations. The new formula doesn’t settle into fine lines and applies smoothly on mature skin. However, the shimmer may emphasize texture or large pores on some mature skin. If concerned, try Deep Throat (less shimmer) or set Orgasm with powder to tone down shine.
Does NARS Orgasm Blush work on dark skin?
Unfortunately, no. Original Orgasm is too light for deep to dark skin tones (Fitzpatrick V-VI). You’ll mainly see golden shimmer without much color payoff. Better options: Orgasm X (deeper coral), Orgasm Rush (more pigmented), or Deep Throat (shows up better than Orgasm).
Is the new Orgasm formula better than the old one?
Mixed reviews. The new formula is:
- ✅ More pigmented
- ✅ Silkier texture
- ✅ Lasts longer
- ❌ Slightly different color
- ❌ More visible shimmer
If you loved the exact original, stock up on old formula if possible. If you’re new to Orgasm, the new formula is excellent.
Can you wear NARS Orgasm Blush to work/professional settings?
It depends on your workplace culture. The shimmer makes it less suitable for very conservative environments (law, finance, etc.). For most workplaces, applied lightly, it’s appropriate. If concerned, try Orgasm Edge (matte version) or Deep Throat (more subtle).
How long does NARS Orgasm blush last in the pan?
With daily use, one 4.8g compact typically lasts 6-12 months. Light users can stretch it to 18+ months. The product is pigmented, so you need very little per application.
Is NARS Orgasm Blush good for oily skin?
Moderately. The powder formula is better for oily skin than cream alternatives, but the shimmer can make oily skin appear shinier. Best practices: use primer, set with powder, apply lightly to oily zones.
What’s the difference between Orgasm and Super Orgasm?
Super Orgasm has significantly more shimmer/glitter—almost chunky glitter compared to Orgasm’s subtle shimmer. Super Orgasm is for evening/dramatic looks, while regular Orgasm works for day and night.
Can you use NARS Orgasm Blush as eyeshadow?
Yes! Orgasm works beautifully as eyeshadow:
- Apply over eyeshadow primer
- Use on lid for monochromatic look
- Layer with deeper shades for dimension
- Creates cohesive makeup look
Does NARS Orgasm Blush have talc in the new formula?
No, the 2024 reformulation is talc-free. This makes it suitable for those avoiding talc for health or preference reasons.
Is NARS Orgasm Blush cruelty-free and vegan?
NARS is cruelty-free (doesn’t test on animals). However, NARS is not vegan as the parent company (Shiseido) tests where required by law. The Orgasm blush itself doesn’t contain animal-derived ingredients but isn’t certified vegan.
Where to Buy NARS Orgasm Blush
Official Retailers
NARS Official Website
- Price: $34
- Pros: Full stock, official source, samples
- Shipping: Free over $50
Sephora
- Price: $34
- Pros: Beauty Insider points, easy returns, testers
- Shipping: Free over $35
Nordstrom
- Price: $34
- Pros: Excellent return policy, free shipping, samples
- Shipping: Always free
Space NK (UK)
- Price: £27
- Pros: Loyalty rewards, excellent service
- Shipping: Free over £40
Mecca (Australia)
- Price: $53 AUD
- Pros: Loyalty program, in-store availability
- Shipping: Free over $75
Shopping Tips
- Wait for Sephora sales: 15-20% off during Beauty Insider events
- Check Nordstrom sales: Occasional beauty events
- Try before buying: Test in-store if possible
- Rouge reward: Sephora Rouge members get extra discounts
- Gift sets: Look for holiday sets including Orgasm
Avoiding Fakes
NARS is commonly counterfeited. Ensure authenticity:
- ✅ Buy only from authorized retailers listed above
- ✅ Check packaging quality (should be flawless)
- ✅ Verify NARS logo is crisp and clear
- ✅ Texture should be smooth, never chalky
- ❌ Avoid eBay, unauthorized Amazon sellers
- ❌ Skip suspiciously low prices
- ❌ Don’t buy from unknown websites
Final Thoughts
After 25+ years, NARS Orgasm Blush has earned its iconic status—and the 2024 reformulation proves the brand is committed to keeping it relevant. Is it the most groundbreaking blush formula? No. Is it universally flattering despite marketing claims? No. But is it a genuinely beautiful, high-quality powder blush that delivers exactly what it promises? Absolutely yes.
The peachy-pink shade with golden shimmer creates that coveted “just-pinched” flush that looks healthy, youthful, and natural. The silky texture blends seamlessly, the wear time is impressive, and the overall experience feels luxurious. Yes, $34 is expensive for a blush, but the quality justifies the price—and one compact will last you months (or even a year+).
The key is understanding whether this specific shade and finish work for YOU. If you have light to medium skin, enjoy luminous finishes, and want a blush you’ll reach for constantly, Orgasm is absolutely worth the splurge. If you have deep skin, prefer matte finishes, or find shimmer problematic, there are better options in the NARS range (Deep Throat, Orgasm Edge, Orgasm X).
Twenty-five years later, NARS Orgasm remains a cult favorite for good reason. It’s not perfect for everyone, but for those it flatters, it’s truly special.
Our Rating: 4.6/5 ⭐
Bottom Line: An iconic, luxurious powder blush with a beautiful peachy-pink shade and golden shimmer that lives up to its cult-favorite reputation—if it suits your skin tone and finish preferences.
Have you tried NARS Orgasm Blush? Does it live up to the hype for you? Are you team Orgasm or team Deep Throat? Share your honest thoughts in the comments!
This review is based on extensive personal testing of both the classic and new formula over multiple months. 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.
