The Hera UV Mist Cushion Nude is a My Skin But Better (MSBB) foundation
I have quite a few Korean cushion foundations in my stash but none of them - and I mean, not one - matches my skin perfectly. I have a few ones that can work with some post-powder foundation tweaking, but a majority of them are simply too light for my NC35 skin even at #23 (usually the darkest shade available from most brands). I've all but given up really. I've already resorted to mixing them with a darker liquid foundation.
Recently however, while browsing Althea, I spotted the updated 2016 Hera UV Mist Cushion Nude SPF30 PA++ (P1,920 at Althea PH). I was elated to see that they have a shade called No. 25 Amber so off it went into my cart! Here's a quick rundown.
COVERAGE: I love this cushion's sheer, skin-enhancing coverage. You can't hope to cover up blemishes or dark areas with just this foundation, but it's amazing at creating radiant, dewy skin and softening pores and lines. I've been enjoying fairly good skin lately so I don't wear heavy coverage bases unless I'm going to an important meeting or event; for everyday, I prefer a lightweight, sheer base that feels like nothing on skin.
If you have troubled skin, this may be too sheer to showcase its benefits.
SHADE: There are four shades available, the darkest being No. 25 Amber. This suits me perfectly! I have yellow medium skin at NC35. The shade selection I'm afraid would be too light if you're any darker than I am.
LENGTH OF WEAR: I have oily-combination skin. The Hera UV Mist has a watery texture that is hydrating; it doesn't quite fully dry down, however, in my experience. Once set with powder though it stays for about six hours before it starts to fade around my nose area. It holds steady with constant retouching but it's fine for up to eight hours, and that's a stretch. Six hours is the average amount of time I'm out on a normal day, so I'm fine with the staying power.
That said, I don't recommend this cushion for oily skin. It's going to slide off faster than it should!
SUN PROTECTION: This has broad spectrum protection at SPF30 PA++. However, considering the amount you'll realistically use per application, you certainly won't get that level of protection. It's still best to wear the correct amount of sunscreen (half teaspoon) underneath.
I observe that it presents a white cast in photos. In person though, it is not that obvious.
SCENT: This has a light scent. I can't put my finger on what it is exactly, but it's a clean sharp scent typical of Korean bases.
SPONGE: The puff included is soft and easy to work with. It's pretty standard fare.
Here's a live video I did on Facebook wherein I used the cushion:
Get ready with me! Just doing a really quick Sunday look
Posted by Project Vanity on Saturday, July 29, 2017
VERDICT: The Hera UV Mist Cushion Nude is what I'd call a "My Skin But Better" foundation. It doesn't look like much in swatches, but on my face it enhances all my hard work! I appreciate how hydrating it is since my skin has been drier lately. I only have a few remaining blemishes left so I just spot conceal after the Hera.
As I mentioned above, this isn't something that those with oily troubled skin will appreciate. It's too sheer and too slide-y. It's also not something I would recommend if you're going to be photographed due to the white cast.
Otherwise, it's great for everyday. Let me know what you think!
PS I got my Hera UV Mist for P1920 a few weeks back, but it's currently on sale for P1440 at Althea PH. This is a great price considering you get a refill too.