If you’ve been tuning into my beauty posts regularly, then you’ll probably know that when I’m wearing foundation (which isn’t on the daily, FYI), I want it to feel – and look – like a second skin. Of course, it all starts with a good base. Skincare is absolutely key, and perhaps unsurprisingly, I’ve found that the brands which have really understood what I want out of a foundation are the skincare experts. Which is why I was so excited to try the La Mer Luminous Lifting Cushion Compact SPF 20. It’s the first cushion compact from the luxury skincare brand (inspired by the popular K-Beauty trend), and its been designed to be the final step in your beauty routine to create that flawless complexion – something I think we’re all chasing when getting ready in the morning!
Quick Facts & Packaging
The La Mer Luminous Lifting Cushion Compact comes with 12g of product, with an additional 12g refill included within the box, and it retails for $170 AUD. There are 12 flexible shades available, which cover a variety of skin tones, and the application has a satin finish. La Mer has infused the product with hydrating skincare benefits and their proprietary Colour Capsule Technology, so that the colour doesn’t oxidise over time. The foundation itself comes in a rose gold mirrored compact, which has a full mirror (perfect for applying on the go), the foundation sponge and a soft puff applicator inside. For on the go, the product also comes with a beautiful blush-toned leather case, to keep the compact safe and avoid spillage while in your handbag.
So how does the compact stack up?
I’ve been using the La Mer Luminous Lifting Cushion Compact for over a month now, and I’ve got quite a few thoughts given I’ve been able to test it under hot Sydney weather conditions, and also see how it fares during the cooler weather. I was lucky enough to attend a La Mer Masterclass where we were treated to a full session on the product, including the best ways to apply it. Taking inspiration from the sea sponge, the applicator the foundation comes with has been specially crafted to pick up the perfect amount of product every time, however as I find puff applicators can be a little fussy, I prefer to press my Sigma 3DHD Kabuki Brush into the sponge to pick up the product.
There are 12 shades in the product range, which sit across the spectrum, and I was matched to the shade ‘Warm Vanilla 23’; I have olive skin with a primarily yellow undertone, so this was a pretty good match for me (if not a touch light, but it’ll be perfect for my winter skin). Infused with Colour Capsule Technology, this works to keep the colour staying true – which means it won’t oxidise over the course of the day.
La Mer is known for its transformative skincare, so it’s probably little surprise that skincare benefits are at the very heart of this foundation; the formula feels hydrating to apply, and it’s rich in softening algae and proven skin brighteners, plus it’s loaded with SPF 20, which helps to protect the skin from sun damage.
The coverage is lightweight, and the application leaves a radiant but natural looking finish – something that is really important to me in a foundation. And, it lives up to its word; it’s humidity-resistant, which is a total game changer if you live in a humid city like I do. Most days on my walk to work, I’m fighting to keep my make up on my face, so anything that can withstand a hit of humidity is a winner in my books. But – and there’s always a but – I do find that it does tend to cling to dry patches, so starting with a good base (and a nourishing skincare routine) is a must. In saying that, it wears beautifully over the day, almost appearing to melt into your complexion and act as a second skin.
Final Verdict
When choosing a base, it can be difficult enough to find the right shade without the added pressure of wondering whether it will oxidise on your skin after half an hour; that’s one of the key benefits I adore about this product – the integrity of the colour is maintained throughout the day, regardless of the elements that you’re up against.
As beautiful as the packaging is, not only is it prone to finger marks, but I’ve noticed that it does have a tendency to get minor scratches relatively easily. I’m aware that the plastic packaging helps to keep the product lightweight, but from a luxury brand I’d prefer to see a heftier case for the product.
While I prefer to apply foundation with a brush (it’s long been my preferred method of application), this works well with a sponge, or even fingers if you’re so inclined. It blends out really beautifully, and is lightweight enough that it feels a little like a tinted moisturiser when working into your skin with fingers, only with better coverage. What I love the most is that this stands up to Sydney’s humidity, which I can assure you is no easy feat, and it’s the key element that has really cemented this as a go-to foundation choice for me, when I’m looking to add a bit of coverage to my complexion (I like to go bare-faced when I can!). It has a beautiful satin finish which appears natural on the skin – it doesn’t look caked on and blends pretty seamlessly into your complexion. It also wears well over the day, which is another big plus, though perhaps my only real complaint is that it has a tendency to pick up on dry patches, but it’s nothing a good facial exfoliant and a enriching moisturiser can’t fix. The price tag of the La Mer Luminous Lifting Cushion Compact will set you back a pretty penny, but if you like your luxury beauty then this is definitely a winner.
