A cushion is a foundation soaked into a sponge inside a compact, applied with a small puff. The format changes how the product behaves and how you look after it.
Where cushions win
Touch-ups. This is the real advantage. A cushion goes in a bag and lets you top up over existing makeup without it looking layered — something a bottle of foundation cannot do.
Speed. Press, pat, done.
A natural finish. Cushions apply thinly by nature, which most people find flattering.
Travel. No liquid to leak or spill.
Where they are weaker
Coverage is light to medium and does not build well. If you need to cover strongly, a liquid foundation plus concealer does it better.
Shade range is usually narrower than for liquid foundations.
Hygiene needs attention in a way a bottle does not.
The hygiene part
The puff touches your face, then goes back into the product. Anything on your skin goes with it.
- Wash the puff weekly with mild soap and warm water, and let it dry fully
- Replace it when it stops looking clean — most compacts include a spare, and refills are available
- Do not share it
- Keep the compact closed. An open cushion dries out
- Replace the whole thing if it ever develops an odour or changes texture
Applying it
Press and pat, do not swipe. Swiping drags product across the skin and leaves streaks; patting builds coverage evenly and is what the format is designed for.
Start in the centre of the face, press the puff onto the sponge lightly, and build where you need it. Two thin passes beat one heavy one.
Layering
Cushions sit well over moisturiser and sunscreen, provided both have absorbed. Give sunscreen a couple of minutes.
For touch-ups later, blot shine away first, then press the puff over the top — do not apply onto oil.
The current shade range is in the Faberlic catalogue. For base technique, see the makeup section.