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The best cushion foundations for a 'no makeup' makeup look

It's the product you need if you hate foundation

By Chelsea Tromans

Beauty Crew Contributing Editor / November 17 2019

A good makeup day is all about that base. And the makeup world has no shortage of foundation types. While most of us stand firmly in either team liquid foundation or team powder foundation, there’s another type of foundation and it doesn’t get the credit it deserves: Cushion foundations. They’re the perfect option for anyone who hates foundation.

Another Korean beauty stroke of genius, cushion foundations really took off a few years ago, when it seemed every brand was bringing one out. While the hype has died down, the perks of a cushion foundation over other foundations are still valid. And if you’re all about that ‘no makeup’ makeup look, and the feeling of not wearing foundation, it’s about time you got reacquainted.

So, what is cushion foundation? Basically, it’s a liquid foundation in the convenience of a compact. Cushion foundations are travel-friendly, convenient and mess-free. Their formulas are generally hydrating and offer light-to-medium coverage with a soft-focus finish. It’s the ideal base makeup product for a natural makeup look.

Here are some of the best cushion foundations in Australia that we think are worthy of a place in your makeup kit.

#10 / CHANEL Les Beiges Healthy Glow Gel Touch Foundation Spf 25 / PA +++

This water-based gel foundation feels fresh and weightless on skin. Hyaluronic acid in the formula keeps skin hydrated, while Kalanchoe extract and SPF 25 protect skin. We’re also big fans of the dewy finish.

Cost: $91

#9 / Giorgio Armani My Armani To Go The Cushion Foundation

If a luminous glow and weightless, full coverage are on your wish list, this cushion foundation is for you. We're all about that ultra silky texture that feels luxurious on skin.

Cost: $105

#8 / Dior Forever Couture Perfect Cushion Foundation

A radiant yet matte finish is just the half of this cushion foundation’s capabilities. The formula is enriched with pansy and rose extracts to hydrate for up to 24 hours. The colour range has also been specially developed to match Asian skin tones.

Cost: $100

#7 / Yves Saint Laurent Touche Eclat Le Cushion Foundation

YSL actually has three types of cushion foundations. What we love about Yves Saint Laurent’s best-selling one is its cooling formula; it's perfect for summer skin. It feels refreshing, looks radiant, and can be built from a sheer to fuller coverage without ever looking cakey.

Cost: $93

#6 / Sulwhasoo Perfecting Cushion EX SPF50+/PA+++

It’s hard to go past a K-Beauty brand when you’re dabbling in a Korean-born makeup trend. This long-lasting dewy foundation provides an impressive SPF 50+ sun protection and is extra moisturising for dry skin.

Cost: $149

#5 / MAC Lightful C SPF 50 Quick Finish Compact

Non-cakey with a natural satin finish, this oil-free cushion compact is great for oily skin. Besides giving skin a healthy radiance, the enriched formula also works to brighten, hydrate and protect skin against environmental aggressors and free radical damage.

Cost: $65

#4 / La Mer The Luminous Lifting Cushion Foundation

What sets this luxe cushion foundation apart is La Mer’s iconic Miracle Broth™, which plumps and firms skin while it provides a luminous, lightweight coverage. The 12 shades have all skin tones covered, including cool, warm and neutral undertones.

Cost: $170

#3 / Lancôme Miracle Cushion Compact

The best cushion foundation for mature skin, this foundation gives skin a glowing, healthy appearance and can be layered for medium coverage. It also brightens, hydrates and delivers anti-ageing benefits.

Cost: $65

#2 / Innisfree Aqua-Fit Cushion Foundation

This Korean beauty brand’s compact nails the brief for dewy, natural-looking skin that’s moisturised and even. Green tea and emollients look after your skin, while the featherlight formula makes it look flawless and smooth.

Cost: $20

#1 / Laneige BB Cushion Hydra Radiance Foundation

If you expect a lot from your makeup, then try this Korean foundation. The hardworking formula is a lot like a BB cream, hydrating, brightening and protecting skin with broad-spectrum SPF 50 while evening out your complexion with a luminous coverage.

Cost: $52

If you’re new to these portable liquid-in-a-sponge foundations, here’s our guide on how to use a cushion foundation.

Have you tried a cushion foundation? What did you think? Which one is your favourite? We’d love you to share your review below.

Main image credit: @zendaya

Chelsea Tromans

Chelsea is BEAUTYcrew’s Contributing Editor. She has a sweet spot for anything that claims to make skin glow and won’t leave the house without a slick of mascara. Chelsea has 10 years of experience as a beauty editor and her words can be found on BEAUTYcrew, Women’s Health, Daily Addict, The Joye and Primped.