During the last few months, we've been inundated with a host of cushion compacts — the popular South Korean makeup export that consists of a "cushion" soaked in product like blush or foundation, in which you stamp a brush or sponge before you apply.
Cushion products are extremely popular in Asia and have been picking up steam stateside as well. But the question is: Do they stand up to their Korean counterparts?
Although the packaging is super-pretty, when I first saw Stila's Got Inked Cushion Eye Liners at a cocktail party for the brand in New York City, I was skeptical. I had seen cushion makeup for skin before, but for eyes? That seemed strange. Well, any doubts I had quickly faded after Stila's own Global Executive Director of Creative Artistry (and bomb-ass makeup artist) Sarah Lucero showed us this liner's magic. As she applied it to a model's lids, I was shocked at how pigmented and quick-drying the liquid formula was. I couldn't wait to go home and try it out myself.
When I used it the next morning (and every subsequent morning since then), I became obsessed with its texture. It has the precision of a gel liner and the longevity of a liquid. Plus, the cushion-y compact is really fun to use. You simply dab Stila's La Quill Precision Eye Liner Brush (but any liner brush will do) into the ink and paint away.
The eyeliners come in six iris-flattering hues, including a shimmery copper and a deep purple. I chose black, and it didn't budge throughout the day — even on my excessively oily eyelids. It layers perfectly — and did I mention it's waterproof, too?
If you haven't noticed already, this liner ticks all my boxes. Obviously, I'll get a lot of use out of it this summer, whether I'm sitting in the office, having after-work drinks, or even lounging poolside.
Stila Got Inked Cushion Eye Liner, $28, available at Sephora.
Stila Got Inked Cushion Eye Liner, $28, available at Sephora.