What is a cushion foundation?
Like many new beauty trends, cushion foundation originated out of Korea. While Korea is known for its skincare innovation, this makeup trend has become just as popular. A cushion foundation is basically a liquid foundation that comes in a compact as it is a sponge-like cushion that is soaked in a liquid foundation. They offer the benefits and convenience of a liquid or cream foundation in a compact so that you can easily apply it and also easily use it for quick touch-ups throughout the day. I’m sharing the best cushion foundations for every skin type, including oily skin, dry skin, mature skin, sensitive skin and acne prone skin.
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How do you use cushion foundation?
Cushion foundation is similar to a traditional foundation, but is mostly different in its application. To use cushion foundation, you will want to press down on the sponge cushion with your fingers or with the applicator that comes with your cushion foundation until you have the desired amount of foundation. You can then dab or press the foundation gently onto your face with your fingers or the sponge.
Cushion foundation is perfect for sheer coverage or a dewy finish. However, since you can control the amount of application, you can layer the foundation for medium to full coverage. It is buildable and flexible for your personal preference.
What should you apply before cushion foundation?
Like regular liquid or cream foundation, you can apply a moisturizer, sunscreen or primer prior to applying your cushion foundation to create a moisturized and smooth base. In addition, it will help give a seamless finish that will last throughout the day.
A primer under your cushion foundation can help minimize pores, prevent oiliness, reduce oxidation, and help your cushion last longer. There isn’t a primer specifically made for cushion foundation, so any primer that you regularly use will work.
What should you apply after cushion foundation?
If you need extra coverage, you can apply concealer after your cushion foundation for an even and seamless look. Apply concealer to the areas that need additional coverage.
You set your cushion foundation with setting powder or a setting spray to help extend it’s wear. If your skin is dry, I would recommend a setting spray as a setting powder can sometimes highlight dry or flaky patches of skin. If your skin is oily, a setting powder may be a better choice to help absorb any excess oil.
What’s the difference between cushion and foundation?
Cushion foundation is a type of foundation. It mostly differs from liquid or cream foundation in its packaging as cushion foundation is housed in a compact whereas liquid or cream foundation is in a tube or bottle. Because cushion foundation is absorbed into a cushion or sponge, you may find that a cushion foundation has a more watery consistency than a liquid or cream foundation.
Is cushion or BB cream better?
Cushion foundations have a lot of skin benefits, similar to a BB cream or a CC cream. Many cushion foundations are infused with ingredients that help your skin while you wear them. The benefit of cushion foundations is its application that I’ve explained previously. Cushion foundations also usually come in many more shades than BB cream or CC cream.
Are cushion foundations better?
Cushion foundations have multiple benefits that justify the higher price tag compared to their liquid foundation counterparts.These benefits include:
- Natural and lightweight finish. You may prefer a cushion foundation if you like a natural foundation with buildable coverage. Because it tends to be more lightweight than liquid foundation, it absorbs more seamlessly into the skin, creating a light and smooth finish. You can also use your fingers or the applicator to layer and build the coverage.
- Convenient compact package. The other benefit of cushion foundation is the compact that it comes in. It’s easy to carry in your purse, travel with, and pull out for quick and easy touch-ups anywhere or anytime.
- Easy to use and apply. It’s easy to use the applicator to press the cushion into your skin for an even and seamless look.
- Skin benefits. Many cushion foundations have ingredients that provide skin benefits such as hydration, sun protection, and antioxidants.
- Shade range. Cushion foundations usually come in a multitude of shades like most foundations to make it easier to find the right shade for your skin tone.
- Flexible and buildable coverage. Cushion foundations have a natural and lightweight finish, so you can layer and build your coverage to your personal preference.
Who are cushion foundations good for?
Cushion foundations are good for people that want a natural and lightweight foundation, with the flexibility to build coverage. Almost any skin type can wear a cushion foundation as they come in some many different variations and shade nowadays. Here’s a few of my recommendations based on your skin type.
What is the best cushion for sensitive skin?
The best cushion foundation for sensitive skin will not have any excess ingredients or fragrance so that it will be gentle on this skin type.
Chantecaille Future Skin Cushion Skincare Foundation is a water-based cushion foundation that gives a natural and fresh finish. This cushion foundation for sensitive skin is fragrance free, gluten free, and vegan for gentle ingredients that won’t irritate sensitive skin.
What is the best cushion for dry skin?
The best cushion foundation for dry skin will have a moisturizing formula and provide a smooth finish, not cakey.
Clé de Peau Beauté Radiant Cushion Foundation is a hydrating formula for a dewy finish that seals in moisture for 24 hours. This cushion foundation for dry skin has a blend of gel and powder to cover pores, and give a diffused effect for a seamless finish for dry skin.
What is the best cushion for oily skin?
If you are looking for the best cushion foundation for oily skin, you will want to look for a cushion foundation that specifically will absorb excess oil and you will probably prefer a matte finish in order to reduce shine.
Estée Lauder Double Wear Soft Glow Matte Cushion Makeup SPF 36 has a matte finish that absorbs excess oil. This cushion foundation also provide for medium to full buildable coverage that lasts for 24 hours. This cushion foundation for oily skin provides a smooth and velvety finish that doesn’t look greasy or shiny. At a $49 pricepoint, it’s very reasonable for a cushion foundation for oily skin.
Cushion for mature skin
The best cushion foundation for aging skin will include coverage for age spots, discoloration, and won’t settle into fine lines and wrinkles. In addition, you will want to look for a cushion foundation with SPF to reduce any further sun damage.
Dior Dreamskin Fresh & Perfect Cushion Broad Spectrum SPF 50 blurs imperfections to minimize visible signs of aging. In addition, it contains SPF 50 to help prevent further skin damage and aging. This cushion foundation is also available at Sephora. This cushion foundation for mature skin reduces the look of fine lines and wrinkles, and is also fragrance free.
Cushion foundation for acne-prone skin
The best cushion foundation for acne prone skin will be oil-free and nonceomedogenic so that it won’t clog pores.
Sisley Paris Phyto-Blanc Le Cushion Compact Foundation is an oil free and Noncomedogenic formula that is perfect for skin prone to acne. This cushion foundation for dry skin also helps to blur the appearance of blemishes, pores, dark spots, and scars. Be sure to regularly clean the applicator sponge to avoid bacteria build-up that can cause additional acne.
What is your favorite cushion foundation?
Cushion foundation is my new go-to for foundation. I love the lightweight and natural finish that covers all my imperfections and redness without feeling heavy or looking cakey. In addition, I love that I can fit my cushion foundation on my purse for on-the-go touch-ups. Cushion foundation does cost a bit more than many liquid foundations, but they are worth the extra skin benefits and the 24-hour wear that many cushion foundations offer.
What is your favorite cushion foundation?
Creator of My Favorite Hello and Author of this Article
Amy has 10+ years of experience in fashion and beauty launching digital products for global brands Fenty Beauty, Glossier, Marc Jacobs, Men’s Wearhouse and Stitch Fix. She also worked previously as a Senior Stylist at Stitch Fix, and currently as an independent virtual stylist, styling men and women for various occasions from everyday outfits, special occasions, to curating a complete closet. Amy is using her styling experience, fashion and beauty expertise to provide style inspiration and outfit ideas so you can shop for yourself and put together stylish outfits that make you feel confident and beautiful. @styledbymyfavehello
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