A cushion foundation is one of the easiest ways to get an even, natural-looking base. The formula sits in a soaked sponge inside the compact, and you pick it up with a puff and press it onto the skin. No pumps, no mess, and the compact fits in a handbag for touch-ups. Below we walk through how to start a new cushion, how to apply it, and how to make the base last.
What you need
- A cushion foundation, such as the Bunny Garden Cushion Cream Foundation
- The puff that comes with it (keep a spare on hand so you can wash one while using the other)
- Optional: a primer, for example the Shell's Jewel Radiance Primer
- Optional: a pressed powder to set the T-zone, such as the Snow Ballet Serum-Infused Pressed Powder
Step 1: Activate a new cushion
The first time you open a new cushion, the formula needs to be drawn up into the sponge:
- Gently peel off the inner seal, but leave the cotton pad in place.
- Press down evenly on the cushion four or five times to activate the formula.
- Remove the cotton pad, then press the puff on the sponge once to pick up product.
Slip three fingers through the strap on the back of the puff. This gives you more control than holding it by the edge.
Step 2: Prep your skin
Apply your usual moisturiser and give it a few minutes to sink in. If you like a primer, apply a thin layer and let it settle before the foundation. A smooth, hydrated surface is what lets a cushion look like skin rather than makeup.
Step 3: Press, don't swipe
- Press the puff lightly onto the cushion once. A light press is enough for half the face.
- Start in the centre of the face, where most people want the most coverage: around the nose, the inner cheeks and the chin.
- Use small pressing and patting motions and work outwards towards the hairline and jaw. Swiping moves the product around and can leave streaks.
- Go thinner on the forehead and around the eyes, where skin moves more.
Step 4: Build only where you need it
Wait a minute, then look again in natural light. If you want more coverage on redness or around the nose, add a second thin layer only there. Two thin layers always look better than one thick one.
Step 5: Set the areas that get shiny
If your T-zone tends to shine, press a little pressed powder over the forehead, nose and chin. Leave the high points of the cheeks unpowdered if you want a glowy finish. Then continue with blush and highlighter; our blush guide explains how to layer them over a cushion base.
How to choose your shade
The Bunny Garden Cushion Cream Foundation comes in nine shades, from C01 Cool Alabaster and N02 Neutral Ivory to W08 Warm Chestnut and N09 Neutral Espresso, and you can pick the compact colour you like (01 Shell Blue, 02 Iris Purple or 03 Ribbon Pink). When choosing a shade:
- Match to your jawline and neck, not your hand or cheek.
- Look at the undertone in the name (cool, neutral or warm) as well as how light or deep the shade is.
- If you are between two shades, the lighter one is usually easier to warm up with bronzer or blush than the deeper one is to lighten.
Refill instead of replacing
When the sponge runs dry, you don't need a new compact. The Bunny Garden Cushion Cream Foundation Refill comes in the same nine shades. If you are new to cushions, the Cushion Glow Starter Set is an easy place to start. Browse everything for the complexion in our Face collection.
FAQ
How often should I wash the puff?
Ideally once a week if you use it daily. Wash it with a gentle cleanser, rinse well and let it dry completely before putting it back in the compact. A spare puff makes this easier.
Can I use a cushion foundation on dry skin?
Yes. Moisturise well first and apply thin layers. If you see dry patches, press a little moisturiser into them before the foundation.
Why does my foundation look patchy?
Usually because too much product was picked up at once or it was swiped instead of pressed. Use a lighter touch on the cushion and pat the product in.
