Foundation formulas keep getting better and better! Lately, I’ve discovered some amazing new foundations, some high end and some drugstore. While, most of them are liquid, the one I’ll be talking about today is a cushion. The concept was completely new to me, but now I’m seriously hooked!
The L’Oreal True Match Lumi Cushion Foundation retails for $16.99 (prices vary based on location), and comes packaged in a plastic container, complete with a mirror and washable applicator. It’s described as a luminous buildable foundation, with sheer to medium coverage. It can be used on all skin types, and is available in 12 shades.
Introducing new True Match™ Lumi Cushion, a liquid foundation infused in an innovative sponge that delivers the perfect amount of makeup. Our luminous refreshing formula creates sheer to medium coverage. Tap a little for a fresh natural glow, tap on more to build a new level of luminous coverage.” L’Oreal
As mentioned above, cushion foundations are simply liquids drenched in a sponge, and that’s exactly what you get. It looks like a sponge, feels like a sponge, and even makes that squishy sponge noise when you press your fingers into it. It’s definitely the most unique formula I’ve ever used, and it’s strangely fascinating to stare at haha.
The texture of this foundation is really creamy and easy to blend. It applies nicely with the included applicator, or you can use a flat top kabuki, stippling brush, or a dampened beauty blender. It doesn’t feel heavy on the skin, and it leaves behind an airbrush finish that hides imperfections and minimizes pores. The coverage is easy to build, and I’ve had no issues with it appearing heavy or cakey on my dry cheeks and forehead.
To apply, you simply press the included applicator (or brush of choice) into the product, tap it onto your face, then blend. It wears all day, without turning oily or splotchy, and it can be worn with or without a setting powder. You can also throw the compact into your purse for convenient touch ups on the go.
Despite the fact that this claims to have a luminous finish, I find it to be more of a demi-matte. It provides the flawless look of a matte, but it still manages to leave skin looking natural with a hint of glow.
BEFORE & AFTER (USING SHADE N3.5)
SHADES N3.5, N5.5 & C5.5
I received three shades for review purposes, but the one that matched me best was N3.5 (as seen above in the before and after photo). It can be a challenge to color match yourself in store, because the foundation comes with a protective seal, so you can’t see the actual color until you buy it and rip it off.
L’Oreal tried to make things a little easier by dividing the shades into three categories: cool (c shades), neutral (n shades) and warm (w shades). But, it would still be helpful to have a clear container to actually see the shades in store. Below, are some swatches!
Formulated with Precise Match™Technology to match your skin’s tone and undertone, the shade range definitely appeals to a large number of people. Some of them are really yellow though, so it might be best to purchase a few, and return the ones that don’t work.
Overall, I’m really loving this foundation! The cushion is so different than anything else I own, and the finish is beautiful. You can customize your coverage, and it works great on my dry/combo skin. I highly suggest to anyone looking for a new drugstore foundation!
Have you tried cushion foundations? Which ones do you love best?
This post contains press samples, all thoughts and opinions are my own. For more information, click here.
I love the finish! This sounds like a really lovely formula!
I would love to try this, but I’m not sure how I’d do with these 3 color choices. I’m surprised that 5.5 looks lighter than 3.5. The demi-matte finish is perfect
The shades are definitely tricky, and I thought the same, so I went in with 5.5. at first, and was like woahhhh its way darker on my face than it appears in the pan!
Ohh these look and sounds amazing and I can’t wait to give it a try! I’ve never tried a cushion foundation before- I’ve got combination skin so it sounds like it would work perfectly! Also, I am a huge rose gold lover and I love how there are rose gold accent on the packaging!
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I also love the rose gold packaging, it’s so chic! I hope this works as well for you, as it did for me!
It looks great on you! I’m not a fan of the cushion foundation thing myself.
Thanks! Bummer it didn’t work out for you 🙁
It’s a shame that they don’t have testers since it’s such a waste to have to return things. This looks great on you so I’m glad you found a shade that works so well.
Such a shame! I really hope drugstores change that soon!
It looks amazing on you! I love this cushion foundation.
Thank you! The formula is fantastic!
I like this too, the cushion feel is unique
It’s definitely different than anything else I own!
I can’t get over how lovely the finish is! Really need to try this!
It’s beautiful!
I love cushion foundations and this one looks great on you!
Thank you!
I love cushion foundations and I wish that I could use this one. It’s so pretty on the skin and affordable, too. *sigh
I really want to try other cushions now, did you find your perfect shade in this? I think it’s hard with the way the packaging is sealed.
I adore cushion foundations and was so eager to get my hands on it, but I think its not for my oily skin x
Laura
Pink Frenzy
Bummer! I have heard some people say it didn’t mesh well with their oily skin 🙁
I’m loving all things cushion and this looks so great. I agree though, it’s tough to gauge your shade.
I bought one of these and was so happy the color was a perfect match… but my oily skin had it sliding around about 4 hours in 🙁
Oh no, what a shame!
I’m very impressed with the formulation and coverage of this foundation, I think it’s really nice 🙂
I was so surprised too!
I’ve got to try cushion compacts. They sound truly wonderful.
They are great!
I have been really curious about these, but I feel like you get so much less product for the same price. The concept and formula does sound really nice though.
I honestly never really go through foundations, so I don’t consider the amount to be bad, but you’re right you’re only getting half an ounce with this 🙁
Loved the review! Gonna have to get my hands on this foundation. Have u tried milanis conceal + perfect plz review it soon
Ohh, haven’t tried that! I’ll look for it!
Fab review, admittedly out of my comfort zone, but interesting concept!
I’m having a little bit of a problem with color. I was’t at first as the W3 worked, although I usually wear W4 in my L’Oreal make-up. Now with my tan, I see there are no darker shades in the warm colors! Any suggestions?