EASY EFFORTLESS FOUNDATION? Its as easy as 1,2,3...
Cushion Compacts have been around the last few years and have been a huge hit especially in the Asian market. For those who don't know what this is let me explain! It's basically a foundation that lays in saturated sponge. With the applicator, you press the cushion allowing you to get the perfect amount of foundation and it gives you lighter coverage as compared to regular Korean foundations.
As a girl, you know how inconvenient foundations/creams can be. Not only can it get messy but the whole process of opening the bottle and applying foundation can take up your precious time. The cushion foundation prevents all these problems and makes your life a little bit easier!
HOW TO CHOOSE THE PERFECT KOREAN CUSHION FOUNDATION
So what exactly is a Korean Cushion Foundation? Cushion foundations are designed for super easy foundation application. The cushion and applicator allow the foundation to be evenly distributed on your face. For those that love the light coverage of BB Cream, cushion foundations allow you to transport it easily with you wherever you go!
Want to know a little more about what your cushion foundation can do for you? Check out these important features that can help you decide which patch is best for your needs.
SPF
You should never leave the house without SPF on your face! All the products on this list provide SPF Coverage. We list out the amount of coverage that each cushion foundation provides in addition to PA coverage. For PA the more plus signs equals to the more coverage there is!
Color Options
Korean Cushion Foundations tend to be quite light and many even help lighten the skin. Darker and tanner skins might not find the perfect color fit. We let you know how many color options are offered by the brand.
Refills
Many of the Cushion Foundations on this list come with a refill which is a huge bonus. This gives you maximum bang for your buck. Check the individual review to see if the product comes with a refill or not
Price
Price is definitely an important factor to consider when selecting the perfect cushion foundation. Most of the foundations on this list are quite affordable but there are also premium picks!
THE BEST KOREAN CUSHION FOUNDATIONS
Etude House Any Cusion - Best Overall
SPF50+ / PA+++
no refills
3 color options
$$
The Etude House Precious Mineral Cushion Foundation has an SPF of 50+, protecting your skin from harmful UV damage. It will whiten as well as care for your wrinkles. This Korean Cushion Foundation contains a Pearl Mineral Powder (which will prevent darkening) and gives you a moisture lock from the Hyaluronic Acid and Sebum Control.
This foundation gives your skin a flawless finish! Compared to similar products this cushion foundation is very affordable yet still gives you a glowing matte finish.
Due to my sensitive skin, I don't like wearing products that have a strong smell (in addition it always gives me a headache.) I like the scent of this product but it was a bit on the heavy side for me. Because there are only three different shades, it is hard to match the foundation to your skin perfectly. Most of the colors are pretty light so if you have a darker skin tone it will not work for you.
This product really does its job when it comes to covering pores, I noticed a significant difference! Afterwards my whole face felt and looked extremely smooth. Because of its amazing coverage, I found that I did not need to use a powder over the foundation. The Etude House foundation helps me save time in the morning for I'm no longer using foundation, concealer and powder. Instead I just apply the cushion foundation and I'm ready to go.
Amore Pacific - BEST PREMIUM
SPF 50+ 204
one refill
3 color options
$$$
I absolutely love this this foundation in a compact! It contains hydration, SPF protection and covers evenly. With a high SPF of 50, it protects against UVA keeping wrinkles and sun damage away.
This product contains an anti-inflammatory dynamic fluid capture system technology that transforms liquid into an emulsion. You apply the Amore Pacific Cushion Foundation with an anti-absorbing applicator that not only soothes the skin but cools it as well. This compact contains a skin technology that will fill the lines on your skin giving your skin a smooth coverage as well as providing flawless coverage.
Im in love with the packaging, it comes in a silver compact giving it a futuristic look. I didn't have a problem closing or opening it and is very simple and very easy to use (which makes my life easier).
Because of the green tea in this compact, there is less skin irritation for those with sensitive skin. The hydrating bamboo sap is used instead of oil or water based ingredients. It therefore gives a moisturizing effect and protection from the toxins of everyday life.
Most foundations may feel heavy but Amore Pacific gives you an even tone, blends well and leaves you with an amazing coverage. For those who have sensitive skin I did not feel any irritation, instead it felt super light as if I barely had any make up on.
MISSHA M Magic - Best Bargain
SPF50+/PA+++
no refills
3 color options
$
The MISSHA M Magic Cushion sponge is a lightweight foundation that moisturizes, protects from the sun, and provides coverage. The Micro Cover Pigment helps to cover blemishes and helps to create a clean complexion. Love that Silica Bead Powder is included to soak up any excess sweat!
Missha's blue ruby-celled sponge is soft and also acts as a cooling agent. The cushion foundation comes in two different colors a light beige and natural beige. When applying the product, it leaves a light natural shine, instead of having a thick cakey look.
This cushion foundation does NOT dry out my skin but it doesn't have a oily texture either, rather it has a matte finish. It covers smoothly giving me an even color throughout my face which I've had problems when using other foundations. I would rate this in my favorite top three cushion foundations!
SPF 30
2 color options
$$
The moisturizing cream in Dr. Jart's Beauty Balm conceals enlarged pores, restores skin tone and contains an SPF of 30 to protect you from UV rays. Although the coverage is quite amazing this product also aids in elasticity to give you a you that young fresh look!
I wasn't visually in love with the packaging, but the compact is made for function (the compact is air tight). When I'm working all day I barely have time to eat, therefore when I need a touch up I want a product that is simple and fast to use as well as having great coverage. This "cream pact" is the perfect solution for my touch up problems.
I hate heavy coverage in any type of foundation, but at the same time I want something that covers well and is very light on my skin. This product is light on my face, smooth, and very moisturizing (especially for those who have dry skin).
SPF 50
no refills
3 color options
$$
This is actually one of the first fusion compacts brought to market by an American Brand. It has been tested and clinically proven to brighten your complexion, even out your skin tone, help with fine lines and soften your pores. This foundation not only covers but color corrects, moisturizes your skin, as well as slows down aging on your skin.
Out of all the cushion foundations. aesthetically this packaging is one of my favorites. The compact shape is rounded on the edges giving it a sleek and futuristic look. It isn't bulky and is air tight, preventing it from opening when in a make up bag. The only aspect I did not like about this was I wished there was more foundation in each compact.
The problem with liquid foundations is that it can look cakey, uneven and feel heavy on your skin. Yet this product has a smooth texture and consistency which is a huge plus! One disclaimer about this cushion foundation is, if you have oily skin it may not be the best for you.
Although it is very moisturizing, it can make your skin look shiny and oily. On the other hand if you have normal to dry skin this foundation will work amazing for your skin type.
SPF 50+ PA+++
one refill
3 color options
$$
The Laneige BB Cushion is mostly known for its pore enhancement properties.
I'm in love with this cushion foundation because it so amazing for touch ups. This BB cushion isn't as moisturizing as the others that I have tried but still covers fairly well. Because it is drier than other formulas, wrinkles and spots can be more visible.
I'm always on the run during the day so I need something that will stay on for I can't constantly touch up my face. I was pleasantly surprised when the Laneige BB Cushion wasn't cakey even after a several hours!
The coverage on this product is not the best when trying to hide scars or dark pigmentation, I would suggest you use a concealer or powder over it. Although it does have a high SPF, unless you cake on the foundation it's crucial to have a lotion or cream with a SPF as well.
If you have a tan or are a darker skin tone you will have trouble matching the the foundation. If you have fairer skin with a warm undertone, this product will be perfect for you.
SPF47 / PA++
no refills
4 color options
$$
This Lalavesi Akma cushion is made to moisturize, is great for skin rejuvenation, and buoyancy. The ingredients prevents aging and dry skin and use natural products. In addition it has a high SPF to protect your skin from sun damage.
First of all I will say that I absolutely love the design of the compact; it's not too bulky and comes in a white/pink plastic compact. The whole look is very clean, simple yet classy. I normally do not like heavily scented products so I was delighted with the light baby powder scent. At first I was afraid the shades didn't match my skin tone but after about five minutes, the foundation subsided into my skin and actually blended very well! I normally have to find two foundations and mix the colors but I was happily surprised with the Lalavesi base.
One of the most important aspects about foundation for me is it needs to last for a full day. I don't mind doing minor touchups but because I'm a very active individual it's imperative my make- up lasts throughout day. Unfortunately, after applying this foundation it stayed on for about three and half hours but then melted off my face. The foundation that was still on my face was quite cakey and I therefore had to apply it over and over again. If coverage is what you need, you will need to add a powder and or concealer over the foundation for it is pretty thin. I also wished it came with an air puff sponge, the regular sponge just swallowed the foundation and therefore I needed to use more of the product.
SPF 34
3 color options
$$
This korean cushion foundation is known to protect your skin from UV, helps moisturize your skin as well as giving you wrinkle care. It gives you a refreshing and long effect while the oil provides your skin with a glowing effect.
I've tried many cushion foundations and I would rate this high on my list. Because I have dry skin, the foundation is extremely moisturizing yet not too heavy. The texture is silky smooth making my skin glow and covers my blemishes quite nicely. After applying this, it made my face look natural, dewy and very smooth.
The packaging is visually very simple and white with the company's name on top. It's very clean with smooth lines but I found that it was hard to close the compact completely. When I put it in my purse, it would randomly open up making a mess! I'm not sure if my compact was defective but this was a huge flaw and I could not carry it in my make-up bag. Another flaw I found from the packaging was I found it to be a bit bulky and larger than others; I carry compacts in my purse and this was definitely the largest.
Unlike other cushion foundations that would only stay on my face for a couple hours, this product stays on for about six hours. It's lasts all day (but using a little bit of powder works great as well) and does not cake on your skin. Another thing that stood out about the Innisfree cushion was the scent. I actually LOVE this scent, it smells fresh with a touch of tea tree and mint.
SPF50/PA+++
one refill
3 color options
$$
The IOPE Air Cushion XP was made to moisturize and protect your skin from the sun, and has a formula for anti-aging. This cushion foundation is super lightweight and pretty sheer. It's definitely not a full coverage foundation.
I absolutely adore the packaging, the compact is durable and made very well. Just like a compact it has a mirror and has a separate area for the sponge. The cover of the cushion is sealed and prevents it from drying. It also comes with a refill cushion which saves money and you don't have to buy a whole new compact when it runs out.
If you are looking for a foundation that is light and do not want complete coverage, this product will work for you. It blends well with your skin tone. I also noticed that after using the IOPE Air Cusion, my pores actually got smaller. I only used this product for about a week and half and there was a noticeable difference.
The sponge is one of my favorite features with this product. The cushion is slightly rubbery which prevents the foundation from absorbing. Because of this feature, you do not need a lot of the foundation when applying it on your face.
SPF50+
one refill
3 color options
$$
This new luxury brand Myconos has come out with its first cushion compact. It comes in a natural beige color that includes a cushion refill. The whitening formula gives you a sheer to medium coverage, prevents wrinkles, and contains a moisture control. For those of you who have sensitive skin, this product is perfect for you and will not clog your pores.
I was actually very surprised that this product managed to stay on my face without getting cakey or oilythroughout the whole day! It wasn't streaky nor did it change color as other cushion foundations have. This compact is extremely light and has a sheer to medium coverage. It covered my blemishes very well and in addition, after trying it for about a week or two I noticed my skin get brighter and even.
The Myconos foundation did not clog my pores. Because it's so lightweight I felt like my skin was able to breathe. I have broken out with other foundations in the past but by the end of the day my skin was still soft and red-free. A pet peeve of mine is when a foundation is so thick and oily that it easily comes off your face. Although it's not waterproof, even with the humidity it managed to stay on effortlessly.
Mastering the Art of Cushion Compacts

There are so many types of cushion compacts but how do you pick the right one? Remember to use the right cushion compact, it all comes down to the selection of the right finish and coverage for your skin tone. Michelle Pham is a famous youtuber and we love her tips on how to find and apply the cushion compact. We did a youtube cut up video below, check it out!
To apply, load the application sponge and blot it onto your skin in small even pats.

For those who have fair skin here are some suggested brands from S. Korea that will match your skin tone: Etude House, Lancome, Iope, Hera, Laniege, Vida Vici, The Face Shop. (Basically all the brands will have something for your skin tone because Koreans prefer light skin.)

For those who have light to medium skin tones here are some suggested brands: AmorePacific, Sulwhasoo, Innisfree, Hera, Pur, Vidi Vidi, Laneige, Lancome

For those who have a darker skin tone here are some suggested brands: Laneige, Lancome and Pur

*In addition cushion compacts are also available in color correction compacts.
When selecting a cushion compact for dry skin find a compact that is foundation based, look for one that is bb or cc cream based. For application use a good moisturizer and hydrating primer or spray a moisturizing toner directly to the sponge (this will keep your skin hydrated and will keep your foundation from settling in fine lines). Continue to build your desired coverage by adding thin layers, press and lift in order to avoid streaks and dry patches.

Here are some great Cushion Foundation picks for dry skin:

When selecting a cushion compact for combination skin there is a wider range of compacts to pick from. For application start by applying your cushion compact around your jawline and cheeks. Then dab around the t-zone area with a beauty blender in order to avoid build up. Then set it with powder for a great finish.

Here are some picks for combination skin:

When selecting a cushion compact for oily skin make sure it is a mattifying or satin finish. Stay away from “hydrating benefits,” and look for one with a lightweight formula. When it comes to application start by using a mattifying primer to soak up any oil or build up and keep your skin matte. Then finish with a mattifying spray and translucent powder.

Here are some picks for oily skin, acne prone skin, and mature skin:
- Philosophy: Take a Deep Breath Cushion Foundation
- Sulwhasoo Cushion Foundation
- Ohui - Cover Moist CC Cushion

When selecting a cushion compact for acne and mature skin, make sure you keep your skin balanced. You want to look for cushion compacts with added benefits and stay away from products with heavy formulas and harsh ingredients.
For application start with a primer to smooth out fine lines or blemishes. Apply with a damp sponge and make sure you are applying in thin layers. Touch it up with a spot concealer. Once done with the application finish it up with a hydrating setting mist.



NylonPink.tv is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON SERVICES LLC. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. All prices on this site may change and those considered valid are displayed on Amazon.com