Blush (Rouge)

If you have any questions or concerns about a poisoning, call your local poison control center or 1-800-222-1222. Calls to the Poison Control Center at CHOP are always free, confidential and staff by pharmacists and nurse experts.

Quick take on ingesting blush (rouge)

Toxicity? Minimal to none

Most common symptoms if swallowed? Upset stomach

When to seek immediate help and call 911? Choking or difficulty breathing.

Has your child eaten blush?

Children love to watch adults apply makeup and often mimic their behavior. But when a little one applies blush or “rouge”, they may get it all over their face and try to taste it. In most cases, this is not a problem. The ingredients are considered non-toxic, and most cases will not require medical attention. However, if blush is eaten, a child may experience an upset stomach (cramping, nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea) and it will likely resolve on its own.

Four common methods of blush exposure

In mouth or eaten? Give water and small snacks to help reduce taste and upset stomach. If the child is choking or has difficulty breathing, seek immediate help and call 911.

On skin? This product is designed to be used on the skin. However, if skin irritation occurs, wash with soap and water. If skin irritation persists, call the poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.

In eyes? Flush eyes with water for at least 15 minutes. If eye irritation persists, call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Inhaled? Remove the child from exposure and get fresh air. If irritation persists, call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Blush exposure prevention tips

  • Be aware of any makeup you leave in your handbag and other easily accessible places.
  • Store your handbag and makeup out of reach of small children.

Ingredients we're looking at

  • Essential oils
  • Talc
  • Coloring agents

NOTE: If you think your cosmetic may have been originally made and sold outside the U.S., please let the Poison Control Center know.


Next Steps
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What to Expect When You Call

When you call the Poison Control Center, we will ask you a series of questions. Here's what we'll need to know so we can help.

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