10 of the Best Cushion Foundations | POPSUGAR Beauty

The next time you load up your makeup bag with your favorite foundations to wear on vacation, consider bringing along a cushion foundation compact — you'll want to thank us later. If you aren't already familiar with the K-Beauty trend staple, cushion foundations are usually characterized by a sponge that's soaked with liquid foundation and housed in a plastic container. The sponge, of course, is to be used as the foundation applicator.

The pros of using this type of foundation compact are plentiful: they're known for being lightweight and easy to apply with the soft applicator, it's perfect for natural-looking makeup as there are plenty of dewy cushion foundation formulas to try, and many are refillable. Plus, some cushion foundations have SPF in them, so you'll be able to easily reapply your sunscreen throughout the day, and not ruin your makeup. Not only that, cushion foundations are one of the most travel-friendly makeup products. Meaning you don't have to worry about opening your carry-on to an explosion of makeup.

Ahead, check out our picks for the best cushion foundations on the market.

— Additional reporting by Anvita Reddy

Tirtir Mask Fit Red Cushion Foundation ($25)

You've probably seen the Tirtir Mask Fit Red Cushion Foundation all over your TikTok feeds, and it's for a good reason. This cushion foundation is a bestseller in Japan for delivering smooth, glass-skin like results. It offers buildable coverage with a lightweight feel and a natural, skin-like semi-matte finish. However, it went viral when the brand decided to expand its shade range to accommodate the global market. Available in 27 shades, ranging from light to deep dark, you'll surely find your match in this.

Em Cosmetics Daydream Cushion Tinted SPF SPF 50 PA+++ ($48)

For the most natural-looking effect, the Em Cosmetics Daydream Cushion Tinted SPF features a serum-like formula that blurs pores and evens out skin tone while providing sun protection. It has buildable wear that will give your complexion an even tone. This cushion foundation contains niacinamide, snow mushroom extract, rice water, and other antioxidants to hydrate and refine the skin's texture. It contains SPF 50 PA+++. The cushion is also refillable for the eco-conscious. It comes in six shades.

Chantecaille Future Skin Cushion Skincare Foundation ($145)

Chantecaille's Future Skin Cushion Skincare Foundation is a water-based, oil-free foundation with a lightweight feel, perfect for those looking for something hydrating. Leaving skin with a flawless appearance, this cushion foundation delivers a blurring effect with a buildable coverage. Your complexion will look natural and fresh; just press the puff into the cushion and dab it into your skin. It's available in six shades.

La Mer The Luminous Lifting Cushion Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF 20 ($150)

La Mer's The Luminous Lifting Cushion Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF 20 hydrates skin while giving it an airbrushed finish. It's a great lightweight option for those with dry or normal skin types. It contains SPF 20 as well. This cushion foundation delivers a light yet buildable coverage with a natural, skin-like radiant finish. It comes in seven shades.

Iope Perfect Cover Cushion SPF 50+ ($42)

The Iope Perfect Cover Cushion SPF 50+ will deliver airbrushed foundation coverage while remaining lightweight on the skin. It's perfect for those with combination and sensitive skin, especially if you're looking for a natural finish. This cushion foundation will infuse your skin with hydration while providing coverage for blemishes and redness. It contains SPF as well, so it's a great way to reapply your sunscreen while wearing makeup throughout the day. It comes in two light to medium shades.

Missha M Magic Cushion SPF50+/PA+++ ($14, originally $19)

Aside from its pocket-friendly price tag, the best thing about the Missha M Magic Cushion SPF50+/PA+++ is that one pat will stay put and provide you with enough coverage to get you through even the most hectic days. It comes in five light to medium shades. It has a lightweight wear and a buildable coverage. It's great for those with oily or acne-prone skin types since this cushion foundation has smooth silica bead powder that helps absorb sweat and sebum.

Amorepacific Color Control Cushion Compact Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ ($71, originally $75)

The Amorepacific Color Control Cushion Compact Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ delivers long-lasting coverage with a weightless feel. It's a great cushion foundation for those dealing with dullness or uneven texture. You can gently pat the puff on areas where more coverage is needed. With this cushion foundation, you'll have a more even toned complexion and a radiant glow. It comes in five light to medium shades.

Dior Forever Cushion Powder Foundation ($65)

If you have oily or combination skin, this Dior Forever Cushion Powder Foundation will deliver a flawless base on the go. This powder version delivers a velvet, soft matte finish that still leaves your skin with a glow. The loose powder is ultrafine and infused with water, so your skin will still feel hydrated with a weightless wear. It's long-wearing, translucent, and available in three light to medium tones.

Sulwhasoo Perfecting Cushion ($65)

The Sulwhasoo Perfecting Cushion will provide your skin with a smooth finish application that feels lightweight. It will help improve the appearance of discoloration and uneven skin tone as well as blurr the appearance of pores. It has a hydration formula that will leave your skin feeling comfortable and flexible. This cushion foundation also has an SPF of 50+, so you can easily take it on the go for reapplying sunscreen on top of makeup. It comes in six light to medium shades.

Clé de Peau Beauté Radiant Cushion Foundation ($105)

The Clé de Peau Beauté Radiant Cushion Foundation will leave you with a dewy, lightweight finish that won't have you reaching for your oil-blotting sheets in the hours to come. It delivers a hydrating application with sheer-to-medium buildable coverage. It comes in six light to medium shades.

Anvita Reddy is an assistant editor for PS Shopping. She has a passion for products and is an avid reviewer of everything including furniture, mattresses, home gadgets, cookware, tech, and more. Having dealt with acne as a teenager and into adulthood, her expertise lies in beauty. She has tried and tested plenty of skin care, makeup, hair care, and countless other beauty products.