BB Cushion Compacts are one of the greatest beauty innovations to come out of South Korea. Korean cushion technology is so popular it was even adopted by western beauty companies, including Lancome and Dior!
Today, we’re exploring how to apply your BB Cushion.
Why?
Cushion technology is different from regular BB Creams or Foundations.
A BB cushion is a Korean Beauty invention that involves a BB formula soaked into a sponge that comes in its own compact. The formula is more watery and lightweight than liquid bases, which also necessitates a slightly different application technique.
They offer a variety of benefits like providing a more controlled application and non-cakey formula that is perfect for touch-ups on the go. As cushions come in their own sleek compact kits, including an applicator puff, they are perfect for slipping in your bag and taking on holidays.
Before you start your makeup, it's important to make sure your skin is properly prepped and hydrated.
Starting with a clean face, apply a hydrating toner in multiple layers. Your first layer should be applied with a cotton pad, following the direction of your skin. Your next layers should be applied with your hands, gently patting the toner into your face. This should all be done with the same toner.
Next, seal everything in with a hydrating moisturiser. Opt for something that sinks into the skin properly, rather than sitting on top forming a coating.
Finally, make sure you apply your sunscreen.
Now, you're ready for makeup!
First, insert your fingers under the puff applicator that comes provided with every BB Cushion.
Next, place the applicator lightly on the sponge part of the cushion to release the BB Cream. Lightly soak the centre of the puff (being careful not to press too hard to avoid releasing too much product!)
Rather than using a “wiping” motion over your face, for the best possible coverage, dab, pat or press the applicator puff into your face. For hard to reach places (like the skin between your nose and eyes), use the edge of the puff applicator only to blend the product in seamlessly.
One of the best things about BB Cushions is that you can apply multiple layers without the formula caking or flaking.
To get additional coverage, simply dab the puff into your face (rather than wipe it) until you achieve your desired level of coverage.
Then blend with the beauty puff provided.
BB Cushions work best with concealer applied after application. Simply apply your concealer over the top of your cushion foundation base, and blend to avoid visible lines.
We recommend The Saem Cover Perfection and Dasique Pro Concealer Palette as excellent options that work well with BB Cushions.
If you prefer a matte finish, dust natural powder onto your face to set your BB Cushion.
If you prefer a natural, dewy glow simply skip this step – this kind of finish is preferred by most Koreans.
To get the most out of your cushion, as you reach the end of the formula, we recommend turning the cushion over and making sure you squeeze the last drops from the underside of the cushion sponge (namely, the side that doesn’t get used everyday!)
If your cushion comes with a re-fill, you can simply insert this into the same BB Cushion case, which is cheaper and more environmentally friendly than buying another one
Most cushions that come with refills also come with a new puff so you don’t have to worry about spreading germs.
For Mature Skin - Try Age 20s Signature Essence Pact- this Korean cushion foundation is ideal for dry skin, offering beautiful but lightweight coverage. It gives a classic Korean beauty glow to the skin and is perfect for touch-ups on the go.
For Great Shade Range- Try Tir Tir - although it's arguably not the best cushion formula on the Korean market (there are issues with the formula oxidising) this cushion foundation is perfect for anyone who struggles to fit into traditional Korean shades as it comes in a whopping 40 different shades.
For Dry, Dehydrated Skin - CLIO Kill Cover Mesh Glow Cushion Foundation - one of the most popular cushion foundations in Korea, CLIO's Kill Cover combineshydrating skin care benefits with naturally radiant coverage. It creates naturally hydrated and glowing skin.
For Oily, Normal and Combination Skin- JUNGSAEMMOOL Essential Skin Nuder Long Wear Cushion - with a matte finish, this cushion foundation is perfect for oilier skin types. Created by one of Korea's most popular makeup artists, you can't go past this to control excess sebum throughout the day.
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