We’ve long-loved a compact – a sleek little golden or enamel box that we can slip in and out of our handbags for on-the-go complexion checks. But since heavy setting powders have more recently been eschewed for lighter, dewier and more radiant looks that often come in liquid formulations, the compact has been left among the bottom-of-bag silt. Until now. Enter the cushion, the cultish compacts that contain feather-light foundation formulations in beautiful, fun and elegant casings.

Hailing from Korea, inside these compacts liquid foundation is packaged beneath a spongey cushion-like surface, releases just the perfect amount of product when dabbed with an applicator sponge. With their built-in mirror and applicator, cushions are perfect for speedy, light touch-ups whether on the tube or at the desk. And cushions are popping up across Western brands, with a variety of formulations, shades and uses (we particularly love cushion blushers).

Here’s our pick of the cushioned best:

Yves Saint Laurent Le Cushion Encre De Peau

Coming in six matte shades, we love YSL’s refillable Le Cushion Encre de Peau for calming oilier, shiny skin while never covering or making us feel cakey. Simply press the applicator sponge into the inkwell, let the foundation transfer into the pillow and then roll the pillow from side to side onto the face and neck. We’re particularly taken with its innovative cooling technology, perfect for hot and humid retouching.

£37, available from 25 August at House of Fraser.

Estée Lauder Double Wear Nude Cushion Stick Radiant Makeup

Instead of a compact, Estée Lauder has opted to create a cushion stick for its iconic Double Wear Lightweight Foundation. For a radiant and glowing base, we love this rose-scented formula that buffs into a natural finish. With its removable and rinsable cushion, it’s as hygienic as it is innovative and comes in a whopping 20 shades, with good provision – as always with Estée Lauder – for darker tones.

£28, available from Harrods.

Lancôme Cushion Blush Subtil

Cushions aren’t just for coverage! They can be used for colour too! And we love Lancôme’s dinky cushion blush compacts in their six signature shades. Ranging from a coral-orange to a deep raspberry shade, when used with the included applicator cushion the colour can be built-up into a flattering, sheer glow.

Shade 02 Rose Lemonade, £28.50, available from House of Fraser.