Written by Sayantani Deb, Makeup & Beauty WriterUpdated on Feb 19, 2024
The products curated for this article are independently chosen by the editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission. Check out our product research & curation processWhen it comes to makeup, it's no secret that the Korean beauty industry is one of the most advanced in the world. From innovative skincare formulas to cutting-edge makeup trends, Korean beauty has revolutionized the way we think about cosmetics. One of the most popular trends to come out of Korea in recent years is the cushion foundation. The best Korean cushion foundations have been gaining popularity in the beauty world for their lightweight wear, natural finish, and buildable coverage. What’s more? The liquid foundation contained in a sponge-like cushion in a compact provides high coverage and makes your skin look dewy and provides protection from harmful UV rays.
Our contributor Maya Adivi, a certified makeup artist, says, “Korean foundations cater to different skin types through formulas with different finishes such as matte, natural, or dewy. Some cushions also include moisturizing, soothing or clarifying ingredients to support the needs of different skin types.”
She further states, “There are cushion foundations designed to address skincare concerns like aging. Anti-aging cushions often include antioxidants and sunscreen filters to help protect the skin from photodamage, while ones for acne-prone skin may include ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil.”
“Cushion foundation is great because it sort of combines the function of a beauty blender with the convenience of a compact and it really is the answer to the modern woman’s make-up kit woes! It's durable, lightweight, and a perfect travel companion” explains Elton Fernandez, official make-up artist, Maybelline New York.
From K-beauty favorites to innovative new brands, there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to cushion foundations. You may be looking for a dewy finish or a matte look, or a light, medium, or full coverage, there's a Korean cushion foundation to meet your needs. Check out our 14 best products and find the perfect formula for your skin type.
Our top picks
14 Best Korean Cushion Foundations
It is the perfect cushion foundation for all your makeup needs. One of the best Korean cushion foundations on the market, this delivers a dewy, radiant glow with a light-as-air finish that lasts all day. It also provides sun protection with SPF50+/PA+++ while keeping your skin hydrated and moisturized. Its unique blend of light-reflecting pigments and brightening ingredients gives your skin a natural-looking, flawless complexion. With its easy-to-use design and convenient refillable option, MISSHA M Magic Cushion makes it easy to look your best all day.
Pros
- Essential active ingredients
- Easy to apply
- Wide range of shades available
- Suitable for all skin types
- Provides glowy skin
Cons
- Not long-lasting
- May cause irritation
2
Travel-Friendly
AGE 20's Signature Intense Foundation
Let AGE 20's Foundation help you create the perfect look while bidding adieu to dull skin. This dewy cushion foundation SPF 50+ offers a natural dewy finish with 71% essence and full coverage that will last all day. The 23 medium beige shade is refillable so you can always keep your look fresh and it is perfect for all skin tones. With this cushion makeup, you can achieve a flawless and flawless finish that will make your complexion look radiant and beautiful.
Pros
- Lightweight
- No heavy feeling
- No white residue
- Perfect for daily use
- Great packaging
- Travel-friendly
Cons
- Expensive
- Very dry
3
Suitable For All Skin Types
Beaudiani Cover Cushion Foundation
Create a flawless complexion with this lightweight, blendable cushion foundation formula that provides up to 24 hours of natural-looking, medium coverage. It helps to even out skin tone and texture and helps to target and reduce the appearance of skin discolorations, blemishes, and other skin imperfections. With fermented yeast extracts and hyaluronic acid, it also helps to lock in moisture and provide you with the radiant complexion of your dreams. So, why wait? Get the coverage you need with the convenience and comfort of the Beaudiani Cover Cushion Foundation.
Pros
- Lightweight finish
- Intense 24-hour hydration
- Natural coverage
- Suitable for all skin types
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Bad odor
- Pricey
4
JUNGSAEMMOOL OFFICIAL Essential Skin Nuder Cushion
Achieve a smooth, glowing complexion with this convenient Korean cushion product. The lightweight formula provides sheer, natural coverage that won’t cake or crease, while the cushiony applicator allows for easy and even application. With its unique blend of skin-nourishing ingredients, this cushion compact helps keep your skin hydrated and looking its best all day long. The refillable compact also ensures you won’t run out of this product anytime soon! Get a natural, luminous complexion with this cushion foundation compact.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Not heavy
- No cakey feeling
- Easy to blend
- Includes a refill
- Suitable for combination skin
Cons
- Too light
- Costly
5
CLIO Kill Cover Glow Fitting Cushion
Feel confident and radiant with this cushion foundation. This long-lasting, lightweight formula provides a radiant glowing finish and has a SPF50+/PA++++ rating, making it ideal for protecting your skin from the sun. Its lightweight formula blends seamlessly into your skin, giving you an even, glowing complexion. Whether you’re looking for a subtle coverage or a more dramatic look, this foundation can provide you with the perfect finish. With one of the best Korean foundations’ long-lasting formula and glowing finish, you won’t need to worry about your makeup fading throughout the day.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to use
- Perfect hydration
- Long-lasting
- Needle perforated puff
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- A bit oily
- May settle into fine lines
6
Best Non-greasy Formula
AMOREPACIFIC Color Control Cushion
It is the ultimate lightweight foundation for a flawless complexion. This innovative cushion compact offers a natural, buildable coverage that evens out skin tone and blurs imperfections while providing long-lasting hydration and protection from the sun’s harmful rays. Formulated with an advanced blend of antioxidants and plant extracts, this lightweight foundation helps to correct skin discolorations and dark spots while evening out skin tone. Its unique cushion applicator ensures a soft, smooth application that won't clog pores or cake up, and its SPF 50+ broad spectrum protection shields skin from UVA and UVB rays. You can be sure to experience beautiful, even coverage and SPF protection with this K beauty cushion foundation.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Buildable formula
- Non-greasy
- Puff applicator
- Easy to use
- Versatile
Cons
- Overpowering smell
- Costly
7
CLIO Kill Cover Cushion
This cushion foundation contains a blend of natural ingredients, including mineral pigments, that provide a perfect blend and coverage. With a fresh, natural finish, this cushion foundation will keep your skin looking flawless all day long. The unique formula of this Korean makeup cushion foundation contains a special blend of oil-absorbing powder and oil-controlling agents that help keep skin hydrated while providing sheer coverage.
Pros
- Hydrating
- No smudging
- No heaviness
- Long-lasting
- Water-drop shaped puff
- Great for acne-prone skin
Cons
- Not enough shade ranges
- Light coverage
8
Nice Packaging
Aprilskin Magic Snow Cushion
It is a revolutionary cushion foundation that provides full coverage with a flawless finish. This Korean cushion foundation is designed with a unique formula that not only provides a luminous complexion and sheer-to-medium coverage but also protects your skin from harmful UV rays with SPF 50+ / Pa+++. It also contains an oil-free formula that helps keep your skin hydrated and moisturized for all-day wear. This cushion foundation comes in a convenient compact and is easy to apply and blend for a natural finish. With its lightweight texture, it's perfect for all skin types and provides long-lasting coverage.
Pros
- Moisturizing
- Great coverage
- Good fragrance
- No cracking
- Nice packaging
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- No refill
- Not vegan
9
Most Moisturizing
moonshot Microfit Settingfit Cushion
You can now enjoy an undetectable yet long-lasting complexion with this unique cushion foundation that provides a sheer layer of lightweight and breathable coverage. It works to ensure a comfortable, natural-looking finish that will last throughout the day. Its innovative formula is designed to be sweat and oil-resistant, providing a perfect base for your makeup. Plus, it's enriched with skin-nourishing ingredients that help protect the skin from environmental damage.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Long-lasting
- Buildable
- Adds moisture
- Anti-aging
- Great for dry skin type
Cons
- No refill
- Expensive
10
Most Affordable
IOPE Air Cover Cushion SPF 50+
This Korean cushion foundation offers a moisturizing finish that doesn't irritate your skin, while still offering long-lasting coverage. This cushion foundation provides airbrushed-looking coverage, superior protection, and hydration to keep your skin looking its best. This lightweight foundation with Its SPF 50+ protection, helps keep your skin safe from the sun's harmful UV rays all day long. The K-beauty foundation provides a natural, healthy-looking glow with just one swipe, and the long-lasting coverage ensures that your skin looks flawless all day. The best part? It works well on dry, normal, and dehydrated skin types.
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Perfect applicator
- Easy to apply
- No smudging or fading
- Hydrates skin
- Great for all skin types
Cons
- Poor packaging
- May clog pores
11
ETUDE HOUSE Double Lasting Cushion
Experience a flawless and long-lasting makeup look with the ETUDE HOUSE Cushion foundation. This face cushion makeup foundation product delivers 24 hours of coverage with a semi-matte finish while providing a naturally moisturized, smooth complexion. Boasting SPF34/PA++ protection, your skin is shielded from the damaging effects of the sun, allowing your look to last even longer. It is perfect for those who want to maintain a beautiful complexion all day. With its unique combination of active ingredients, this cushion will keep your skin looking healthy, hydrated, and vibrant.
Pros
- Weightless
- Great coverage
- Long-lasting
- Matte finish
- Wide range of shades
- Great for normal skin type
Cons
- Scented
- Can be a bit drying
12
HERA UV Mist Cushion (SPF50+/PA+++)
This cushion foundation combines the comfort and coverage of a traditional foundation with the convenience of a compact. Formulated with a unique UV protection formula and moisture-rich ingredients, it provides a natural and healthy glow while helping to protect and nourish your skin. With SPF50+ and PA++++, it offers superior protection from the sun's harmful rays. The lightweight and breathable formula keeps your skin hydrated throughout the day. The #C23 beige cover offers a natural-looking finish without any cakey residue. This cushion foundation is perfect for on-the-go touch-ups, helping you to maintain your flawless look all day long!
Pros
- Lightweight
- Buildable
- Moist
- Nice glow
- No pore clogging
- Can be applied easily
Cons
- Scented
- Pricey
13
Best for Sun Protection
TROIAREUKE A+ Cushion Foundation
This cushion foundation provides natural coverage for a soft, glowing finish. So let your skin have the care it deserves with it. With SPF50+ PA++++, you can be sure your skin is protected from the sun’s harmful rays. The natural ingredients help to nourish and hydrate your skin while giving you a beautiful, natural look. With flawless, buildable coverage and long-lasting wear, this cushion foundation is perfect for any skin type. So, get your foundation today, and experience the perfect solution for dry, dehydrated, and sensitive skin types!
Pros
- Contains SPF 50+ PA+++
- Controls excess sebum
- Stays on comfortably
- Smoothes out dry patches
- Replenishes skin barrier
- Ideal for acne-prone and sensitive skin
Cons
- Bit cakey and tough to blend
14
Provides Full Coverage
IM UNNY Stay Velvet Cushion
It is a long-lasting Korean foundation cushion that offers full coverage and a matte finish. Formulated with a high concentration of active ingredients, this cushion is designed to provide excellent coverage, yet remain lightweight and comfortable on the skin. With this shade, you can be sure to find the perfect match for your skin tone. This K beauty foundation is sure to give you the perfect base makeup and a long-lasting, flawless look.
Pros
- Rich in moisture ingredients
- SPF 50+
- Zero heaviness
- Weightless
- Full coverage
- Glowy finish
Cons
- Lighter coverage
- Expensive
Now that you have seen our product recommendations for the best Korean cushion foundations, glance through our buying guide to make an informed purchasing decision.
How to Choose the Best Korean Cushion Foundation?
Choosing the best Korean cushion foundation for your skin type and needs is not an easy task. However, if you consider your skin type, ingredients, formula of the product, price, and benefits, you can easily find the best cushion foundation for your needs.
By considering the above-mentioned factors, you should be able to find the best cushion foundation for your skin.
How to Use the Best Korean Cushion Foundation?
Here is how you can use the best Korean cushion foundation for the coveted natural look -
- Start by cleaning your face and applying a light moisturizer.
- Take the puff that comes with the Korean foundation and lightly press it into the sponge. Then, using gentle patting motions, apply the cushion foundation to your face. Start at the center of your face and work your way outwards.
- Using a makeup sponge, blend the cushion foundation into your skin. Focus on blending the foundation at the edges of your face to ensure there are no harsh lines.
- Finish off by setting the best cushion foundation with a lightweight setting powder. This will help the foundation last longer throughout the day and prevent it from creasing or caking.
Korean cushion foundation is a great choice for anyone looking to achieve flawless skin and long-lasting coverage. With its light and buildable formula, it provides a natural-looking coverage that is both comfortable and breathable. The best Korean cushion foundation is the one that best fits your individual skin needs and preferences. Our list of top products offers a wide range of shades and textures and so it is easy to find a cushion foundation that best suits your skin type and desired look. From natural-looking coverage to more full coverage, there's a cushion foundation out there for everyone. With the best cushion foundation, you can look your best and be confident in your makeup.
Contributor: Maya Adivi, Certified Makeup artist, Click here for blog
FAQ's
Why do Koreans use cushion foundations?
Cushion foundations are popular among Korean women as they provide a natural, glowing look to the skin while being easy to apply and giving long-lasting coverage. They are also ideal for those with oily skin, as the cushion foundation helps to absorb excess oil. Additionally, cushion foundations are more affordable than other foundation products, making it an ideal choice for those on a budget. With its many benefits, it's no wonder why cushion foundations are a hit among Korean women.
Do I need to apply powder after the cushion foundation?
Whether you need to apply powder after Korean foundation depends on your skin type and personal preference. If you have oily or combination skin, or if you prefer a heavier coverage, applying powder after a cushion foundation can help control shine and provide a longer-lasting finish. However, if you have normal or dry skin, you may not need to powder after your cushion foundation. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide what works best for you and your skin.
How do I know my Korean foundation shade?
By understanding the basics of Korean cushion foundation shades, taking into account your skin's undertones, and testing out a few shades, you can find the foundation shade that will make your skin look its best. Experiment with different shades and formulas to find the one that best complements your complexion and enhances your natural beauty.
How long does a Korean cushion foundation last?
The longevity of a Korean cushion foundation can vary depending on the type, quality, climate, and skin type. However, in general, a Korean foundation should last up to 8-10 hours when applied correctly. To ensure that your foundation lasts longer, it is important to use a moisturizer, sunscreen, and oil blotter throughout the day.
Why is a cushion compact foundation a total game-changer?
Cushion compact foundations are a total game-changer because of their lightweight, high coverage, and easy-to-apply formula, unlike traditional foundations.
Should I get rid of my regular foundation?
You can vouch for a cushion foundation instead of a regular one if you wish for high coverage, smooth texture, easy-to-apply formula, and easy blendability.
How safe is a Korean cushion foundation?
Korean cushion foundations are suitable for a range of skin types and tones to not only provide a smooth canvas for makeup application but also make them utterly hydrated and moisturized.
How do I clean my cushion foundation puff?
To clean your cushion foundation puff, dilute mild detergent in lukewarm water, and lightly knead with your hands.
Do you need a primer with a cushion foundation?
Yes, you need to apply a primer before putting on a cushion foundation to extend its wear.
Do cushion foundations dry out?
If you don’t use the cushion puff correctly, it can dry your skin out or make it look cakey.
Why Trust Pinkvilla
Sayantani is a certified hair and makeup professional turned writer with 2+ years of experience in the same genre. She says that Korean cushion foundations are a blend of skincare and makeup. They offer lightweight and buildable coverage while hydrating and protecting the skin from the sun’s harmful rays. After giving all the listed products a try, she was astounded by the results that Age 20’s Signature Intesne Foundation offered. It was lightweight, and it gave her a dewy finish with full coverage. Additionally, it leaves no white residue and is perfect to be used every day.
Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Pinkvilla to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!
Author BIO
Sayantani is a certified hair and makeup professional turned writer with 2+ years of experience in the same genre. Ap More
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