Beauty journalist Lauren Codling has declared the Sculpted by Aimee Cream Cushion Foundation (£28) an indispensable part of her makeup routine, praising its buildable coverage and ability to conceal redness while delivering a naturally luminous finish.
Why This Foundation Stands Out
Codling, a senior affiliates writer, first tried the foundation last autumn when it launched in the UK. Despite testing numerous foundations since, she consistently returns to this K-Beauty-inspired formula. The product features a fine-mesh cushion that releases product when pressed with the accompanying puff, allowing for adjustable coverage—the firmer the press, the more foundation dispensed.
Upon first opening, Codling noticed a layer of oil on top, which she initially found puzzling. However, she learned it is normal—the hydrating liquid rises to the surface as part of the formula, not a defect, according to the Mirror.
Application and Finish
The puff feels remarkably soft against the skin, making application enjoyable. Codling applies a couple of gentle layers most days to even out her skin tone and conceal redness, noting that it blends effortlessly without feeling heavy. The finish is fresh, healthy, and naturally luminous rather than dull or heavy. She describes it as one of those rare formulations that deliver a refined look without appearing as if she's wearing substantial makeup.
Skincare Benefits and Wear
The foundation is enhanced with nourishing vitamin E and niacinamide, keeping the skin hydrated throughout the day rather than drying it out, as some fuller-coverage foundations can. Codling finds it particularly pleasant for warmer periods. The staying power is impressive, with makeup still looking fresh after hours of wear. She credits her Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder (from £29.95, Sephora) for helping to keep everything in place.
The foundation also includes SPF, though Codling emphasizes she doesn't rely on it alone for sun protection, using Clinique's UV Solutions Mattifying Sunscreen beforehand. She notes it's comforting to have an additional layer alongside a dedicated sunscreen.
Other Products from Sculpted by Aimee
Sculpted by Aimee offers a range of skin-first formulations. The HydraTint Moisturising Tinted Serum (£24) is a bestselling multitasker that smooths, hydrates, and evens skin tone while providing SPF 20 protection. One user enthused: "I absolutely love the coverage, it's dewy and covers imperfections. The added skincare is a fantastic bonus; my skin looks younger." Another convert said: "I have used many (some rather expensive) foundations/tinted moisturisers from Charlotte Tilbury to Chantecaille, now that I have discovered Sculpted By Aimee, I'm a convert, the search for the perfect product for me is over."
The Beauty Base Protect (£23) is an all-in-one moisturising primer with SPF 50. A delighted customer remarked: "A little bit goes a long way and doesn't leave a greasy feeling on my skin. Feels really light and my skin always feels plump and hydrated after using it." However, another reviewer noted: "My skin looks glowing in the mornings, and makeup glides on. I would prefer if it came in a tub, as I find that towards the end of the tube, the pump does not pick up the product."
Final Verdict
Codling concludes that the Cream Cushion Foundation is comfortable, buildable, delivers a radiant complexion, and makes her morning routine more pleasant. For her, that is precisely what an excellent everyday foundation should achieve.
