Find your best cushion compact
I feel like I’ve been seeing cushion compacts everywhere recently, but because they are relatively new, here are a few tips on how to find the best cushion compact for you.
Cushion compacts originate from Korea, and provide lightweight, sheer coverage. Their packaging is a bit bulkier compared to that of an average compact, as they create an airtight seal to keep the cushion and product fresh inside. Inside the compact you will find your applicator, which is a circular antibacterial sponge, as well as a sponge soaked in foundation, BB, or CC cream.
A useful tip when you are running out of product is to flip the soaked sponge onto the reverse side, which allows you to make use of the remaining foundation left on the bottom. When choosing the right cushion compact, it all comes down to selecting the right finish and coverage for your skin tone and type.
• Choose the right color. If you have fair skin, I know the struggle of finding a product that matches your complexion. Usually people who are fair have very pale skin, and are usually too light for a lot of the foundations on the market. But don’t worry! Because Korean aesthetics specifically prefer the paler look, you can find a wide selection of suitable cushion compact shades at Etude House, Lance, Laneige, Vidi Vici and The Face Shop.
As Korean brands favor lighter products, it may be a bit more of a challenge to find the right cushion compact for women with a light-medium skin tone.
However, the upside of having light-medium skin is that you can afford to play with all the different shades until you find one that’s perfect for you, though there are brands that already carry light to medium shades, such as Innisfree, Hera, PUR, Vidi Vici, Laneige, and Lancome.
Because compact cushions are relatively new, the range for deeper skin tones is unfortunately rather limited, though there are still brands like Lineage, Lance, and PUR that still carry them.
• Pick one for your skin type. If you have dry skin, cushion compacts will be your best friend, because it applies very lightly onto the skin. I would suggest getting one that is BB or CC cream-based rather than one that substitutes foundation. Before applying, make sure to put on a moisturizing and hydrating primer, as this will help your base last longer. Press the product onto your skin instead of swiping to avoid streaks and dry patches. Make sure to work with thin layers and build up.
Having combination skin offers you a wider range to choose from, because you can tolerate cushion compacts for both dry and oily skin. Start by applying on your jawline and cheeks, then build up. Then, gently apply under your eyes, but take care not to apply too much as it may crease. Once finished, add the final touch by setting with powder.
If you have oily skin, cushion compacts might not be the best choice for you because of its dewy finish. But don’t worry; there are still options available for you! Look for products with a mattifying or satin finish, and stay away from ones with hydrating benefits. It is important to remember to apply your favorite mattifying primer before applying your base. Apply your desired amount of coverage before finishing with mattifying spray and powder. This will allow your base to last longer.
If you have acne-prone or mature skin, your goal is to keep your skin balanced. Because these skin types need extra love and attention, look for compacts with added skincare benefits. Stay away from heavy formulas and harsher ingredients.
Compact cushions are honestly my favorite base to work with because of their easy application and natural finish. Many drugstore brands such as Maybelline and L’Oréal have come up with their own as well. Don’t be afraid to experiment, and good luck!
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Email the author at clarapettersen95@gmail.com or visit her website at www.clarapettersen.com.
