Color Control Cushion Compact Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF 50

Amore Pacific, based in South Korea, lists "alcohol" as an ingredient in its Color Control Cushion Compact with SPF 50. Since there are good and bad alcohols, I resisted jumping to a negative conclusion especially because I agree with AP regarding impressive benefits conferred by the use of this treatment foundation that has many fans atwitter and aglow. AP's response to an email inquiry was delayed, which I considered either bad (corporate communications) behavior or bad news. After four workdays, I received a reply thanking me for my "patience" as a response from R&D "to ensure correct information and advice" had not yet been received. When I informed the company that I had no patience and was spoiled by live chats, which provide instant gratification, I received an answer two days later. Apparently, bamboo sap, the primary moisturizing ingredient, is easily contaminated as it's stored for prolonged periods. To prevent "micro-organic pollution," anhydrous alcohol is used. This is ethyl alcohol, which some scientists who write for respected journals warn consumers to avoid because it damages the skin immediately and over time and may even minimize the efficacy of the good ingredients in the formula including those that protect against sun damage. AP asserts that their anhydrous alcohol is dermatologist approved, but we have no idea who the dermatologist is and whether or not the doctor was paid. AP says that their anhydrous alcohol is patented, but this is just ethyl alcohol with water removed and can't be patented. Our U.S. FDA approves its use. The respected Washington, D.C.-based Environmental Working Group rates this alcohol a 2 (out of 10) and asserts that anything between 1 and 2 is safe. In 2008, the National Institutes of Health urged further investigation, but rigorous double-blind, peer-reviewed studies demand a lot of time and money. Meanwhile, concern lingers.

Apply in less than one (1) minute. Add eye shadow (30 seconds), mascara (30 seconds), bronzer (30 seconds) and lipstick (30 seconds. Add earrings and spray cologne (30 seconds). Comb and fluff hair (30 seconds). Select wardrobe, shoes and throw on a crossbody bag (1) minute). Add five (5) minutes for a more dramatic effect. DONE in 10 minutes and OUT THE DOOR for a PERFECT WORKDAY. All due to AMORE'S COMPLETE CARE (CC) COMPACT!!!

I am looking for a multi-tasking product that will give me light-weight yet great coverage and I hoped this would be it. Not so. I bought this after reading the reviews and while I liked the coverage, I found the fragrance to be overpowering and it did not dissipate over time. I was catching whiffs of it all day. I am typically not overly sensitive to fragrances, but this gave me quite a headache. As for the coverage – I would say that it is buildable but medium at best. The finish was natural and dewy but after only an hour or so, it had settled into my pores and made my face look like an oil slick. The good part about this product is that it breathes and that it gives a cooling, moist feeling to the skin. And another added bonus: it comes with a refill compact, nice touch For Reference -- I am a MAC NW30, Armani 5.5, Chanel Biege 40. I purchased both the Tan Gold and Amber Gold with neither of the two being a perfect match for my skin. If I had to pick one though, I’d say the Amber Gold was the best match. One more warning to those who are sensitive to perfumes --- this product has a powerful fragrance that did not dissipate with time. I can’t help but wonder why Amorepacific would scent a face product so strongly.

This foundation is different from the way it looks in the picture. I thought it was a cream that looked as if it had bubbles of moisture on top. Actually it is a sponge with liquid foundation embedded in it. You use the sponge applicator to press on the compact and pick up the foundation and pat it on your face. The foundation is very creamy and doesn't dry to a powder when applied. It also can easily be reapplied to add coverage without looking like a mask. It also goes on much lighter than it looks in the compact. I have been looking for a foundation like this for a very long time and am delighted to have found it. The only thing I'm hesitant about is how quickly I will use it up because I need full coverage. You do get a refill with your purchase which is a very nice extra.

If you have relatively nice skin and want something lighter than a tinted moisturizer or a BB cream this is the product for you! It is a very light formula and covers minor imperfections. I did wear this in Las Vegas this past weekend where I was exposed to 117* heat and sun and it stayed on nicely without getting shiny or causing my skin to get oily. The finish is a very nice dewy/freshly moisturized look and if you apply a little powder on the nose your makeup can make it through anything. I also wore this at night to the clubs and it photographed beautifully and didn't give off the overexposed white face that sometimes happens from other foundations.

I am in the sun alot and thought this would be a great one-step product. Some unexpected nusainces cause me to leave this one on the bathroom shelf. First, it takes forever to put on. You have to slowly and carefully pat it on. Instead of a relatively quick applicataion with a brush or fingers, this requires a sponge. Second, the coverage is quite sheer. I thought I had pretty good skin, but every flaw shows through, and in fact, seems to get drawn out! My brown spots don't get any coverage. Third, it leaves a pretty enough finish, but nothing remarkable. I liked the SPF 50, but didn't quite trust that it could layer densly enough to last through my run or my office day. Younger skin might appreciate it more, if you aren't dry and have a spotless complexion. I found myself returning back to my other brand sunscreen with mostiruizer, and will be returning back to my traditional foundation.