Application Bottle with Developer Lotion

Brilliance Colour - Shine Conditioner

Diamond Gloss Serum

There are several reasons that lead to cakey foundation:

1. Skin is not properly prepped.

A lot of us tend to forget prepping our skin prior make up application. Most of us are in a hurry in the morning that we just don't have time for the 10-step skincare that Koreans normally do. Since the skin isn't properly prepped, it remains dry, cracked and uneven which can lead to patchy and cakey foundation.

2. Applying too much foundation.

Foundation helps us achieve a perfect complexion. However, piling on layers of it is not the way to achieve the flawless look we desire. Piling it on just makes it look cakey and fake. This also applies when it comes to retouching make up through out the day. Instead of using blotting papers to remove excess sebum, some women tend to pile on powder foundation whenever they start looking oily.

So basically to avoid the cakey look, here are my 3 basic tips:

1. Prep your skin.

Moisturise moisturise moisturise! Never forget to use a moisturiser especially during fall and winter seasons when our skin gets drier. Be generous and don't be afraid to layer it (essemce/serum + cream + mist). Wait for your skin to absorb the moisture before applying make up. Having hydrated and plump skin makes it the perfect canvass for a flawless foundation application.

2. Mix your favorite serum to your foundation.

This tip was given to me by an Estee Lauder beauty consultant. When I started doing this, it changed the finish of my foundation to a dewy, glowy finish.


the weather. When it's hot like hell outside, I prefer to add a lightweight moisturiser than oil in my foundation.

3. Apply with a damp sponge/brush.

Using a damp sponge also helps prevent cakey foundation since it tends to sheer it out. Apply it using a dabbing motion rather than rubbing it for better application. Lately, I prefer using cushion puffs in applying my foundation. I spray it with any mist I have then  dab the puff unto my face just like how I would do with a cushion foundation. It gives my foundation a dewy finish! 

If you're a brush gal, try spritzing the brush with a mist before blending your foundation. It helps blend it like a dream.

I hope you try these tips and let me kmow how it worked for you.

Hey there, lovelies!

The last cushion product I've reviewed was  a high-end brand by AmorePacific. It is the H E R A UV Mist Cushion. Hera is a high-end Korean brand that is said to be comparable to high-end Western brands such as YSL, Dior, Chanel and Hourglass.

For this post, I'll share my thoughts on another HERA cushion which is the HERA UV Mist Cushion Cover. It was launched early 2016 and is said to be similar to the original UV Mist one but with a better coverage. To know more about this cushion, read on for its product details. 


How To Use: Open the compact and pick up product with the puff provided. Dab onto the face and apply evenly onto the face. Repeat for desired coverage. Follow the same directions for fixing make up through out the day.

PACKAGING


As I've mentioned on my previous cushion reviews, cushion foundations are patented in Korea by a company called, AmorePacific, the same company who released the very first cushion foundation in Korea. That's the reason why cushion foundations are packaged similarly. Brands just basically differ in the formulation of the product and the designs in their packaging.


This cushion is made from sturdy plastic, with its brand and name on its cover. I like that it is made of shiny plastic material because I can easily clean it up when it gets dirty. The simplistic cover also gives the cushion a more elegant look. Compared to the UV Mist Cushion, the sides of this one has a matte finish. Personally, I prefer the old packaging as it looks more elegant with the mirror-finished sides.



DESCRIPTION AND PRODUCT CLAIMS:

The whole UV Mist Cushion Line has the following claims:

1. Mineral Clay Water completes a resilient, dewy skin
Combined with a high-molecular hydrating formula, it captures moisture and spreads it over the skin for a healthy, radiant complexion. It also uses Hypertonic Radiance Technology which fulfills skin moisture content for a resilient and dewy finish. Basically, it is a cushion foundation for flawlessly hydrating skin that adheres moisturising radiance to the skin. 

2. Powerful antioxidants protect skin from harmful conditions
Upon exposure to UV rays, antioxidants in the Smart Vector UV Complex are activated to create a protective barrier for comforting the skin from harsh external conditions

3. Fine particles flawlessly and delicately adhere to the skin
The Ultra Fine Particle Dispersion Technology has upgraded the texture for a delicate finish without caking. 

This particular Cushion Cover Line includes the innovative Post On Powder which provides delicate and complete coverage without caking. It is dermatologist-tested and remains in excellent condition for 12mos after opening.

PRODUCT INGREDIENTS

image via ph.althea.kr This cushion contains silicone and fragrance so if you're allergic to any of those then don't buy this product.

TEXTURE

Although it appears yellowish in the photo, C23 has a neutral undertone which is typical for a Beige shade. It has a very light consistency thus providing a buildable coverage without looking cake-y. .

I use the cushion puff included because I prefer it to be applied on the skin using patting motions rather than buffed with a brush. It goes on the skin easily, blends like a dream and sets quickly. It does feel hydrating on the skin and doesn't get sticky throughout the day.

SCENT
If you're sensitive with scents, this one may not be for you. It has a faint floral scent which I didn't really notice until I sniffed the sponge. The scent does disappear quickly or my nose probably just gets used to it quickly.

COVERAGE
This cushion provides a light to medium coverage. It doesn't cake up even when I apply several layers to try and cover up my blemishes. When I apply a second layer, it does a decent job in covering my dark undereyes, hyperpigmentation and pimple marks. However, because its undertone doesn't match mine, it does end up looking kinda ashy when layered. Also, despite its moisturising claims, it tends to emphasise the dry patches on my skin.

FINISH AND LONGEVITY

Like the previous one, this product has good sebum control properties. It stays on for around 4-5 hours without touch-ups. However, if you have really oily skin and live in a humid country, a mattifying powder and blotting papers will be your best friends. Compared to the older UV Mist cushion, this one has a semi-matte to satin finish. 


The quality of this cushion is really good. The coverage is great for a cushion foundation. It makes it seem like my skin looks good without piling on products. The wear and oil-control properties are great as well. However, I still prefer the formulation of the old UV Mist simply because it does not cling on to the dry patches of my skin as much as this one does. Upon closer look, the dry patches and my facial hairs are very visible however, at a normal distance it's not. 

Since it tends to the dry patches I have on my face, this cushion would be best suited for those with normal to combination skin types.

I can think of 5 cons for this cushion: (1) it is not transfer-proof (2) it gives a white cast in flash photography, (3) it tends to oxidise (it doesn't turn orange on me but it does darken a little bit throughout the day) (4) it clings on and emphasises the dry patches on my face and (5) it has limited shade range. The shades available cater to light-skinned people with pink and neutral undertones. Sadly, if you have medium to dark skin tone with a yellow undertone, you won't have a shade for this line.  

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Have you also purchased this cushion foundation? What's your fave cushion so far? Let me know your thoughts about it in the comment section below. 


Have a great day everyone!

When the BB cream trend has spread across the globe, Korean beauty products have slowly taken over the beauty scene. Since I tried my first ever BB cream (the cult classic Missha Perfect Cover BB Cream), I was hooked. 3 reasons why I keep purchasing K-beauty products: their multi-tasking skin care benefits, effectiveness and of course their cute packaging. It also helps that they are endorsed by Korean celebrities with perfect skin. 😋

I started doing the legendary Korean 10 step skin care ritual this year and it has done wonders on keeping my face clear (for most of the year). The following are the products that I'm currently loving:

5. Laneige Sleeping Pack_Ex. This is another kbeauty skin care cult classic. Its box contains the product, a spatula and a packet. The packet provides all the information regarding the product including an illustration of a face relaxing massage they suggest you do after applying the product. The pack has a light, gel-type consistency that offers intensive hydration, vitality, restorative and brightening effects while sleeping. Skin function declines remarkably during night time, therefore, this sleeping pack provides adequate moisture to our face while we sleep. This ensures that we wake up with hydrated, plump skin the next day. I have tried other sleeping packs but I find this one from Laneige is the best because it's lightweight, dries quickly, does not feel greasy and is also effective. It's good for all skin types so anyone can try it out. I highly recommend this product! 

6. Habalan Pobling Pore Sonic Cleanser. Okay, I'm cheating by adding this on this list as it's a skin care tool. But it is a staple in my skin care routine. Initially my skin underwent the purging stage for a month but my face cleared up and has remained so after the purging stage. I just love using this together with my facial cleansers. It significantly makes the cleanser more effective. I can really feel the difference on my face when I use it.  This can be a good dupe for the Olay, Foreo or Clarisonic facial cleansing brushes. Like the ones mentioned, it's a sonic brush which claims to emit 10, 000 vpm making it very effective in cleaning while being gentle on the skin. And for the germaphobes out there, yes the brush is replaceable. Since I started using this, it has become a staple on my night time cleansing routine. 👌

Have you tried any of these products or want a detailed review? Let me know on the comment section below. 😜

Thank you for reading my post. Have a great day, everyone!

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Disclaimer: This blog post is NOT SPONSORED! Some links are affiliate links which means I earn a small commission when you shop. If you are not comfortable shopping through my links you do not have to. My feelings won't be hurt. I promise :) Just google the name of the product and I'm sure you'll find sites where to shop them.

Hey there, lovelies!

I feel like it's been eons since I did a beauty product review. If you've been following me for a long time you know that I'm a sucker for cushion foundations. The last cushion product I've reviewed was the Lancome Blanc Expert Cushion and if you want to know my thoughts about that cushion you can click on the link.

 This new Korean cushion I'm currently obsessing about is a cushion from a high-end brand by AmorePacific. It is the H E R A UV Mist Cushion. Hera is a high-end Korean brand that is said to be comparable to high-end Western brands such as YSL, Dior, Chanel and Hourglass. 

Here are my thoughts about this cushion:

PACKAGING

As I've mentioned on my previous cushion review, cushion foundations are patented in Korea by a company called, AmorePacific, the same company who released the very first cushion foundation in Korea. That's the reason why cushion foundations are packaged similarly. Brands just basically differ in the formulation of the product and the designs in their packaging.

This particular cushion is made from sturdy plastic, with its brand and name on its pearlized cover. I like that it is made of shiny plastic material because I can easily clean it up when it gets dirty. The simplistic cover also gives the cushion a more elegant look. Personally, I prefer Hera's cushion design better than Lancome's.

Since this cushion is not the 2016 version (my review for the 2016 version will be up soon), the cushion sponge does not dispense the product evenly on the puff. This does not bother me anyway because what matters is blending the product evenly on your face. The box includes the case with the cushion inside and a 15g refill (Yay! 😍👏) therefore, you get 30ml of product with its price.

DESCRIPTION AND PRODUCT CLAIMS:

c/o althea.kr N for Natural Tone while C for Cover Tone

Hera offers 3 options for this line: Natural Tone,Cool Tone and Long lasting (not in photo). The Natural Tone has 4 shades while the other two only has 2 shades.

This cushion claims to be a multi-functional product: mist + foundation +sunblock+whitening+cooling effects. It instantly moisturizes and cools the skin because of its clay-mineral water ingredient which helps maintain the skin's moisture, reduce skin waste, dead skin and sebum. It blocks UV rays as well as prevents damage from oxidation and heat because of its Smart Layer UV Complex derived from its 4 kinds of sunflower seed oil, beta-carotene and tocopherol. This means it does not only protect the skin from the sun, but it also prevents the so-called, "photoaging".

It claims to be a whitening / anti-UV cosmetic while providing powerful long-lasting moisturizing effect for the skin because it contains hyaluronic acid and camellia oil.The Yarrow extract in it also helps get rid of dead skin cells to reveal smoother skin.

This cushion is dermatologist-tested and remains in excellent condition for 12mos after opening.

TEXTURE

I love that this cushion has a yellow undertone and not the usual pink undertone that most Korean cushions have. It has a very light consistency thus providing a buildable coverage without looking cake-y. It claims to provide a cooling sensation on the skin which I haven't felt but maybe it's because I only use it in the morning after my skin care routine. Cleansing, toning and moisturizing makes my skin feel cold so I guess, that's why I don't feel the cooling effects of this product.

I use the cushion puff included because I believe that cushion foundations are meant to be applied on the skin using patting motions rather than buffed with a brush. It goes on the skin easily, blends like a dream and sets easily. It does feel hydrating on the skin and doesn't get sticky throughout the day.

SCENT
If you're sensitive with scents, this one may not be for you. It has a faint floral scent which I didn't really notice until I sniffed the sponge. Every time I use it, I don't really notice its scent so it doesn't really bother me.

COVERAGE

coverage after 2 layers

This cushion provides a buildable coverage. It doesn't cake up even when I apply several layers to try and cover up my blemishes. When I apply a second layer, it does an excellent job in covering my dark undereyes, hyperpigmentation and pimple marks. Because of its moisturizing benefits, it did not emphasize any dry patches in my skin.

I always purchase the darkest shade in every Korean cushions I've tried. Despite that, they still seem too light for me upon application. For this cushion, I purchased C23 which is Cover Tone #23, the darkest shade with high coverage. However, it still looked very light on me. But since it oxidizes a bit throughout the day, it slowly matched my face and neck.

FINISH AND LONGEVITY
 I find it annoying to keep removing hair off my face and who knows what other stuff that sticks to my it throughout the day. That is why I like how this cushion doesn't feel sticky and gives a matte to semi-matte finish which is uncommon for a Korean cushion.

This product has excellent sebum control properties. It was able to keep my face matte even after 5-6 hours! However, if you have really oily skin and live in a humid country, a mattifying powder and blotting papers will be your best friends. Compared to the Lancome cushion, this one does not cling on to the dry patches on my face and provides better coverage (upon layering) that lasts throughout the day.


I am in love with this cushion foundation. The quality of this cushion is outstanding. You can tell from the formulation and how it looks and feels that it is a high-end product. Its coverage is excellent. It makes it seem like my face is poreless. The wear and oil-control properties are fantastic. It is definitely by far the best cushion foundation I have ever tried. I completely understand why even though it is on the pricey-side, it's one of the best-selling cushions in Korea. And I find it very convenient that when you buy the product, everything else you need is included in the box.

 I can only think of 2 cons for this cushion: (1) it is not transfer-proof and (2) it has limited shade range. Sadly, if you have medium to dark skin tone, you might not have a shade for this line. 

 If you're thinking of getting a high-end Western cushion, I highly suggest that you try this cushion instead. Its definitely worth its price!

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Hope you like this post. Have you also purchased this cushion foundation? Let me know your thoughts about it in the comment section below. 


Have a great day everyone!