What Is Cushion Compact Foundation & How To Use It Like A Pro

Korean skin care products have been building up a cult-like following for a few years now. From soothing sheet face masks (that make for hilarious selfies) to hydrating facial mists, we just can’t get enough of them! But it isn’t just Korean skin care we’re inspired by, we’re equally as interested in the makeup aspect of K-beauty. The proof? Cushion foundation is one of our favorite beauty trends at the moment. Cushion compact foundation comes in an easy-to-carry compact case that can fit in just about any purse. Want to learn more about cushion foundation and how to use it? Consider the below your introduction to your new go-to face makeup product.

WHAT IS CUSHION COMPACT FOUNDATION?

If you’re looking for a way to get the perfect no-makeup makeup look, take a break from your traditional powder or liquid foundation and give a cushion compact foundation a try. Cushion foundations contain liquid foundation in an easy-to-carry compact. Here’s how it works: You press down on the cushion and just the right amount of the liquid formula is released onto the sponge. Then, you can dab the foundation onto your skin for a flawless-looking finish.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF USING CUSHION FOUNDATION?

As if you needed any more convincing, here are a few more reasons why we think you’ll fall in love with cushion foundation, from the coverage it offers to its convenience.

Use cushion foundation…for buildable coverage. Cushion compact foundation offers a buildable finish since the compact releases the perfect amount of makeup each time you press down on the cushion. You can use it for a lightweight, glowing makeup look or layer the product for fuller coverage.

Use cushion foundation…for a soft finish. The cushion applicator helps spread the foundation seamlessly for a soft finish. There’s no need to use your fingers, a makeup brush, or a makeup blender to have it effortlessly blended onto your skin. You also don’t have to stress out about touch-ups since it’s small enough to take with you everywhere.

Use cushion foundation…when you’re carrying a clutch. Cushion foundation typically comes with a mirror, which means that’s one less thing that you have to find room for in your petite purse.

Use cushion foundation…when you’re running late. Late for work or class but aren’t willing to show up bare-faced? Use a cushion compact foundation to do your makeup during your commute! It’s small, convenient, and super easy to apply—what more could you ask for?

Use cushion foundation…for your post-workout glam. If you’ve worked up a sweat but have somewhere to be, the last thing you want is to lug around foundation and a makeup blender and then spend the extra time applying it. After washing your face, cushion compact foundation is the answer to your post-workout prayers thanks to its small size and quick application.

Use cushion foundation…if you’re a makeup beginner. When you’re new to the world of makeup, it can be pretty intimidating deciding between all the many options for foundation. Cushion compact foundation is the perfect solution since it offers customizable coverage and comes with a sponge applicator—so you don’t have to master using makeup brushes when you’re first starting out.

Use cushion foundation…when you go on vacation. While you may be tempted to bring your entire makeup bag on vacation, be honest—there are more important things to squeeze in your suitcase. Cushion compact foundation is perfect for vacation because there’s always enough room in your suitcase to fit one little compact. You can also totally fit this guy into your carry on if you’re feeling a mid-flight glam session.

HOW DO YOU USE CUSHION FOUNDATION?

Now that you know cushion foundation is a must-have for your makeup bag, here’s how to use it:

Step 1: Get some product

Gently press the applicator into the foundation cushion.

Step 2: Apply the foundation

Tap the applicator onto your skin to deliver the perfect dose of a foundation. Apply it to the forehead, nose, cheeks, and chin area.

Step 3: Create your desired coverage

Build to your desired level of coverage.

Step 4: Blend it in

Blend all over using gentle downward strokes in a tapping motion.

HOW DO YOU COMPLETE YOUR CUSHION FOUNDATION MAKEUP LOOK?

Once you’re done applying foundation, go about the rest of your makeup routine as you normally would!

Step 1: Apply a touch of concealer

Apply a concealer to any blemishes you may have as well as in an upside-down triangle shape below each of your eyes. This will create the illusion of open, more awake eyes and reduce the appearance of under-eye bags. Try the L'Oréal Paris Infallible Pro Glow Concealer for long-lasting, glowing coverage.

Step 2: Add some color

Once your skin is perfected, you want to add some color to your cheeks! Apply a blush, like the L’Oréal Paris Paradise Enchanted Fruit-Scented Blush Makeup, to the apples of your cheeks for an instant flush. This blush has a soft, velvety texture that’s ultra-blendable, has rich color pay off, and is long-lasting.

Step 3: Grab your eye shadow

To complement the convenience of your cushion compact foundation, opt for an eyeshadow palette instead of individual shadows. Use the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Pocket Palette Eye Shadow in Boudoir Charme to create a brown smoky eye. Apply either medium brown shade to your eyelid. Then, use the darkest shade to define your crease with a fluffy brush, making sure to blend well. Finish the look by using the lightest shade to highlight the inner corner of your eye and below the arch of your eyebrow.

Step 4: Coat your lashes

No makeup look is complete without a few coats of mascara! Use the L'Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Washable Mascara to give your lashes intense length and voluptuous volume. To take your lashes to the next level, apply the L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise™ Mascara Primer/Base prior to coating your lashes with your mascara.

Step 5: Paint your pout

Finish the makeup look by adding a swipe of color to your lips with some lipstick. The L'Oréal Paris Colour Riche Matte Lipstick will give your lips intense hydration and rich, matte color. For a vibrant red, try Matte at Bat. For a purple hue, opt for the shade At the Drop of a Matte. For a neutral, everyday lip color, try Matte-Cademia.

HOW DO YOU CLEAN A CUSHION COMPACT?

Cleaning the sponge that comes with your cushion compact is extremely important. Start by removing the applicator from your compact, then wash it with a gentle soap and warm water. You can use face wash, baby shampoo, or brush cleanser for this step—whatever you have on hand. Once the water runs clean, leave the sponge out to dry. When it’s completely dry, you’re free to use it again and stow it away in your compact. Easy!

You’re now officially in the know about one of the trendiest makeup products of the moment: cushion foundation. For more face makeup tips, read our articles Foundation 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Face Makeup and How to Apply Liquid Foundation.