What are cushion compacts and why has everyone gone bonkers for them?

Want to look airbrushed? Become a cushion convert

How to apply foundation
How to apply foundation

Want to look airbrushed? Become a cushion convert

We don’t want to alarm you, but if you haven’t yet heard of cushion compacts, you should probably check that you’re not living under a rock. 

Heralding from the beauty mecca that is South Korea, the airy make-up tool has the ability to make you look completely airbrushed, without caking up your face. The magic is down to the foundation soaked cushion, that when pressed with the accompanying powder puff, picks up what has been deemed to be the perfect amount of liquid product for an even application. 

It’s basically everything you love about BB and CC creams, but with more perks. 

First off, it’s super thin and light in texture, so it doesn’t cake. Secondly, almost all of them come with an SPF to protect you against both UVA (ageing rays) and UVB (burning rays). Thirdly, because you don’t swipe the foundation on, it’s never streaky, so you end up looking airbrushed. And finally, the technology behind it means your skin immediately gets a healthy looking glow. 

Sold? Here are the cushion compacts you need to know about:

Topshop The Aircushion Skin Perfector, £16.50

Coverage: Light

Shade range: 6

Honourable mention: It contains blurring technology to make your skin look as smooth as a silk pillow. 

Lancome Miracle Cushion, £30

Coverage: Medium

Shade range: 8

Honourable mention: Great coverage without feeling too heavy. It also gives the perfect amount of glow for a lovely dewy finish. 

L’Oreal Paris Nude Magique Cushion Foundation, £14.99

Coverage: Light to medium

Shade range: 7

Honourable mention: It’s easily buildable, so you can use it for touch ups or build it up for a base of make-up. 

MAC Matchmaster Shade Intelligence Compact, £29.50

Coverage: Medium to full

Shade range: 12

Honourable mentions: Controls oil and has been made with technology that reduces the appearance of pores. 

Pur Air Perfection CC Cushion Foundation, £28

Coverage: Light

Shade range: 4

Honourable mention: Contains Babassu oil, known for its intensely hydrating lauric and myristic acids and antioxidant vitamin E.

Natalie Lukaitis