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A Korean cushion is a liquid foundation soaked into a sponge inside a compact, applied with a puff. It is known for a light, natural-looking base. To choose one, decide on the finish (glow, semi-matte or matte), check the shade range, and look at whether you want sun protection built in.
Cushion compacts are a signature of Korean makeup, and a common question at Daebak, a Seoul-based Korean culture and product company. Here is how to choose and use one.
What makes a cushion different?
The formula sits in a sponge under a lid, so you press the puff into it and pat onto skin. Many cushions come with a refill, so you replace the sponge insert and keep the case. Coverage is usually light to medium and can be built in thin layers.
Pick by finish
| Finish | Often chosen for | Example at Daebak |
|---|---|---|
| Glow | A fresh, dewy look | innisfree Light Glow Cushion (with refill) |
| Matte or powder | Skin that looks oily | innisfree No Sebum Powder Cushion |
| Cover and tone | More coverage | CENTELLIAN24 Madeca Cover Cushion |
| Sun cushion | Adding sun protection on top of a base | Round Lab Baby Mild Sun Cushion |
innisfree Light Glow Cushion. See details.
Round Lab Baby Mild Sun Cushion. See details.
Choosing a shade
- Test on your jawline in natural light, not the back of your hand.
- Check how many shades the product offers; some cushions have only a few. TIRTIR's Mask Fit Red Cushion is the exception, with 40 shades worldwide; we compare the brand's cushions by finish and coverage in the TIRTIR Cushion Guide, and CLIO's Kill Cover cushions in the CLIO and peripera guide.
- Match to your neck so there is no visible line.
How to apply
- Start with moisturized skin, and sunscreen in the morning if your cushion does not replace it.
- Press the puff into the cushion and pat, do not drag, in the centre of your face.
- Blend outward with light taps and build thin layers where you want more coverage.
- Wash the puff regularly and close the lid so the formula does not dry out.
Starting a Korean beauty routine
If you are exploring Korean beauty more broadly, the Daebak K-Beauty Box is a seasonal box of Korean skincare and makeup curated in Seoul. Contents change by season, so specific products are not guaranteed.
FAQ
Is a cushion the same as foundation?
It is a foundation in compact form, usually lighter in feel than a traditional bottle formula.
Can a cushion replace sunscreen?
Check the product label. Many people still apply a separate sunscreen first, since a thin layer of a cushion may not be applied as generously as a sunscreen.
What is a cushion refill?
A spare sponge insert of the formula. You swap it into the same case.
How do I keep a cushion fresh?
Close the lid after use, keep the puff clean and replace the puff regularly.
