L'Oréal Nude Magique Cushion Foundation: An In-Depth Review

Following in the footsteps of their parent company Estée Lauder, L’Oreal has released their very first cushion compact; the L’Oreal Paris Nude Magique Cushion Foundation and everyone is talking about it. The trend and technology that kicked off in Korea has finally started to appear on the UK high-street. And you could say there’s soon to be more cushion for the pushin’ with more brands such as Lancôme, KIKO, Autograph and Pür Minerals jumping on the bandwagon. But has L’Oreal’s latest edition set the bar high for its rivals?

Like the makeup magpie I am, I spotted the pearlescent purple packaging instantly when browsing the L’Oreal counter. The L’Oreal Paris Nude Magique Cushion Foundation compact speaks loudly to a millennial audience as it’s far different from their standard simplistic packaging. The compact houses two compartments, one for the provided applicator and the second for the cushion sponge that’s saturated in liquid foundation. The overall concept is convenient, as you can use the applicator provided to tap the foundation onto the skin, or use your own brush, or beauty blender for quick, even, effortless application and re-application. It’s also perfect for travel, as you need not worry about spills, or liquid allowance!

Personally like to grab my favourite foundation brush and tap it directly into the cushion. The coverage is customisable, from sheer to medium and whilst far better than I anticipated, it’s not very buildable beyond a medium coverage. The finish can also be tailored to your liking, as a thin veil imparts a nice natural glow and the more you apply the dewier your base becomes. I would describe the L’Oreal Paris Nude Magique Cushion Foundation as a light reflecting base, leaving my skin more even toned, but it doesn’t disguise imperfections. Throughout the day it wears relatively well, but isn’t as longwearing as L’Oreal’s Infallible range and generally requires setting down with a dusting of translucent powder (on my t-zone in particular) to ensure it doesn’t slip. Overall, the formulation is weightless, breathable and moisturising and its light formula is surprising considering its SPF of 25.

Whilst I’m thoroughly impressed with the L’Oreal Paris Nude Magique Cushion Foundation formulation, I’m not quite a cushion convert. Why? Well for a few reasons. 1) The compact doesn’t pack as much product as a bottle - I’ve already found I need to flip the cushion over every now and then to help dispense more foundation. 2) I’m curious to find out how this foundation would perform if it was supplied in a bottle. 3) With a price point of £14.99 I question its value for money. BUT, having said that, this foundation is great for those that aren’t so great at applying foundation, has customisable coverage and finish and is perfect for on the go. So, if you buy one thing this month, make sure it’s L’Oreal’s Paris Nude Magique Cushion Foundation – its without-a-doubt one to try.  

The L’Oreal Paris Nude Magique Cushion Foundation is available in seven shades and is sold online here for £14.99.

Have you tried L'Oréal's Cushion Foundation? Emily