beauty

"Cushion compacts": the latest foundation to take over your face.

There’s liquid foundation, powder foundation, cream and mineral foundation. Don’t forget BB creams, CC creams and tinted moisturisers. Now it’s time to get ready for 2015; the year of the “cushion compact”.

Cushion compacts are about to hit makeup shelves of Australia with a vengeance. So what the hell are they and do you need one?

RELATED: How to buy foundation online and get it right. 

What is a cushion compact?

A cushion compact is a lightweight foundation that provides a natural, sheer finish.  The formulas are typically very thin and watery, and usually have a high SPF content (so they’re great if you work outside). Because of this they don’t offer a lot of coverage, so if your skin is a little temperamental, you might want to take your foundation love elsewhere.

Take a look through our gallery of the best cushion compact foundations around. (Post continues below gallery.)

The compact itself consists of a sponge-like “cushion” which soaks up the foundation from below. You then bounce the cushion over your face to create a seamless, air-brushed finish. The result is very breathable foundation.

Compacts are also available in blushes, highlighters and concealers which offer the same airy finish.

Do you need one?

I have to admit, cushion compacts are pretty fun.

It’s a new way of applying your makeup with no brushes and no mess. It’s sort of like sponge painting your face and the novelty is cute. I do worry though about the build up of bacteria in the sponge given that you can’t wash the cushions like you do regular makeup brushes. Not only that but it seems you don’t get a whole lot of product for your buck and are instead paying for the large amount of packing required for the item.

However if you like a very “non-makeup” makeup look, cushion compacts could be the perfect solution. They’re also great for travel and on the go touch ups due to their design.

The novelty factor is great. Image via stock images
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So do you need one?

Well, probably not, although it depends on what you're looking for in a foundation. For me, I prefer a medium coverage and I feel the sheer nature of a cushion is just not enough. The novelty is high and applying them is fun but it feels a little gimmicky.

As I mentioned, you don't get a whole lot of product for your money and you can achieve a similar effect using a light-weight foundation (or BB Cream, tinted moisturiser) and a damp beauty blender.

However, if you're looking for a product that's easy to apply, can be thrown in your bag for touch ups throughout the day, and that provides a very light, natural sheen cushion compacts could be exactly what you're after.

Related: The 10-second beauty trick to make your foundation match your neck

What's your favourite type of foundation to use?