THAT DREAM SKIN
Follow this daily Dior routine for smooth, seamless complexion
As much as I appreciate Korean skincare and their quirkyfun cosmetics, when cushion compacts were introduced years ago, I was skeptical. I’m a purist in a sense: liquid foundation and foundation compacts are two separate tools, with two specific uses.
But as I tried one sample after another, boy let me tell you there were multiple kinds—color-correcting, anti-aging, brightening, skin-priming—I realized these cushions were less about coverage, and more about enhancing skin to look its “natural” best.
Its core function is to showcase your skin, and only soften or cover some imperfections that get in the way of a smooth finish, a natural glow.
Since then, I’ve been hooked on cushions in their many forms, and brands, including, but not limited to, Korean ones.
Dream skin filter
One you would come to love for everyday wear is Dior Dreamskin Fresh and Perfect Cushion SPF 50 PA+++ (R4,250 with refill). This iconic compact blurs imperfections and minimizes age spots and lines. You will love it for the sheer, untraceable coverage, for diminishing redness and pore size, and that natural, luminous finish! Breathable, comfortable coverage is what you get, whether you decide to use it alone or as a base.
It was especially helpful pre-and postchildbirth, when
I didn’t want to wear anything heavy during my pregnancy and post-baby, with my lackluster skin. With barely enough time for skincare, it was a godsend.
Now it comes in a new formula that keeps skin 36 percent more moisturized, and with 34 percent more light-reflecting properties for an even more luminous glow. For those who want to go even more au naturel with their daily routine, a non-tinted version is also now available.
On the other hand, for those looking for a more matte finish and a little more coverage, the new Dior Forever Couture Perfect Cushion SPF 35+++ (₱3,650; ₱2350 refill) comes in handy.
Its 16-hour longwear ensures color that won’t change or fade under heat or extreme conditions. You can use it on its own or for touchups. The gorgeous couture look, with the black leather cannage compact, doesn’t hurt, too.
A practical tip when working with cushion compacts: Apply in a gentle, tap-patting motion. Some experts also swear by folding the puff-sponge in half, like a pancake, to easily get into the hard-to-reach contours of the face.
Dior Skin
If you want to fully prep skin prior to cushion coverage, you can follow their three-step system. This method also applies if you need skin to look and feel refreshed.
Start with Diorskin One-Minute Mask to detoxify and revive skin. The weightless mask feels luxurious, giving an ultra-sensorial experience when applied, or massaged onto skin. A thin layer is enough to wake skin up, but you can add more as you please. An AHA peel mask, it gently exfoliates to give radiance, and jojoba oil for immediate baby skin softness.
Follow up with Dior Dreamskin Care and Perfect Skin Creator (₱6,000 30ml, R8,200 for 50mL), a feel-good, rosy pink emulsion, which gives skin a velvet-smooth texture. Finish up with a cushion compact of your choice.
Whether you do the three-step regimen or use the skin-caring products separately as needed, this daily Dior regimen leaves a skinperfecting veil that will encourage you to do with less makeup, or go with naked skin, often.
Dior boutique is located at SM Makati, The Podium; available at Rustan’s Shangri-la; visit www.dior. com; Instagram: @diorph, @diormakeup; Facebook.com/Dior
As I tried one sample after another, boy let me tell you there were multiple kinds—color-correcting, anti-aging, brightening, skin-priming—I realized these cushions were less about coverage, and more about enhancing skin to look its ‘natural’ best.