Review: Black Magic Snow Cushion 2.0 (AprilSkin)

I didn’t expect to love this cushion as much as I did but, perhaps it was because I tested this out right after I did the HERA cushion (which I was quite disappointed in) – but my experiences with it was largely positive! I had tested the AprilSkin cushion in white when it first came out, which was meant to be the more hydrating and lower coverage one; though it was still pretty intense. You can see my previous review for it here but, after using this one, I’m thinking that the 2.0 is a very significant improvement and I actually strongly prefer this black version over the white.

I got this cushion is the shade 21, Light Beige, and people will be pleased to hear that this one comes in three shades – 21, 22 and 23. It doesn’t go much darker than lightly tanned, according to the official information, but it’s nice to know that a different undertone has been considered.

Earlypicker sent me this cushion for review and, since AprilSkin is one of their alliance brands, they carry an incredible range of their products (along with Medicube and Glamd) so definitely check out their store if you’re interested in getting this or anything else. You can also read my haul post here and here from them for more information on their service.

And, without further ado, let’s move on to the review!

So the new version of the cushion is definitely an upgrade with the packaging. It features a matte finish case with a bold metallic of the logo. This is more similar to their pink cushion than the original black cushion (which is the one I preferred) so I’m pretty happy with the design! Overall, even the box looks more classy.

The shape of the case feels quite slick because of the black colour but it is still one of the thicker designs. It’s quite light though and it isn’t difficult to carry around in my make up bag, as it’s still the standard. I’m interested to see if AprilSkin will be adopting the thinner case trend for their next version.

Also, it is important to note that the 2.0 cushion is not compatible with the original – this means that you cannot use the refill on your previous case unfortunately. However, this one is so much prettier that you might as well just get the new one.

The inner lid (which houses the puff) also has a airtight locking mechanism, which is great in that it stops the formula was trying out too quickly. According to the website, this has “patented triple technique” to ensure that it is airtight, to maintain moisture and prevent leakage. Also, when you close the compact (or the outer lid) the inner lid will also automatically click shut – which means you won’t accidentally keep it loose.

To match with the case, this cushion pact also comes with a black puffs. I personally love black, and especially with the puffs match with everything else, so I’m pretty happy with it. It’s soft, but still maintains a bit of rigidity, so it’s sturdy and easy to blend out.

The cushion here uses the same mochi technology as their previous cushion; actually, AprilSkin is the first time that I had seen this sort of cushion and I’ve been wondering where it started. For the mochi cushion (the diagram of which you can find on the Earlypicker website), the foundation formula is housed inside of the sponge, which is double layered and sealed off the edges. This is similar to how a mochi is shaped.

This allows you to use your cushion without dirtying the edges of the compact, which is an issue that I have a lot. Also, since the formula is closer to the top of the sponge, you don’t need to press as hard to dispense (which is important to keep in mind) and you won’t have so many issues with needing to flip your sponge.

And above is how the cushion looks on my hand. As you can see, it blends is really well and haves a very natural finish. It is sort of a semi-matte, with just enough for a natural glow that I love. The coverage is also pretty good and I would consider it a medium to high coverage, as it’s very easily buildable. Unlike the previous one that I tried though, this one doesn’t look heavy or cakey at all – it’s also not sticky as it dried down and is easily set with powder.

I tried this through my entire day (which is usually almost twelve hours) and I found that it wore pretty well too. It definitely faded around my t-zone within a few hours as I have combination skin at the moment, but it stayed well on the rest of my face  so I think that this would be even better around winter time. Regardless, it’s very easy to touch out and the oily areas don’t cake at all and fade very naturally. I tried this without a proper primer the whole time, so I can imagine that it would be even better lasting if I had used one.

Overall, I have a really great experience with this cushion and I find myself reaching for it on days when I want good coverage, but have a long day planned (such as work) when I only only minimal touch ups and to ensure that I don’t look like a mess in the evening.

Here’s the verdict!

SO WHAT IS IT?

A medium to high buildable, semi-matte cushion.

THE GOOD

• Classy, improved packaging
• Triple technique (airtight, automatic closure)
• Mochi cushion that is non-messy and easy to use
• Slightly rigid but still soft puff that is easily blendable
• Light and sturdy
• Non-sticky, semi-matte finish
• Medium to high coverage that is easily buildable
• Natural looking but looks full coverable
• Wears naturally with no caking

THE BAD

• Refill is not compatible with the original
• Not fully matte (doesn’t bother me, but others might expect a more matte finish)
• Fades on oily skin, so it not suitable for oily skin

WOULD I RECOMMEND?

I liked this cushion a heck lot better than the HERA cushion that I tried last time and I am really excited to be recommending this. Although I liked the original, this one is definitely an improvement on it in leaps and bounds, so even if you have the original, don’t hesitate to try this one out.

WHERE TO GET IT FROM

The AprilSkin Magic Snow Cushion 2.0 is at Earlypicker for USD$26 – discounted from the full price of USD$28. If you’d like a refill to go with it, you can also get that set for USD$39 (discounted from USD$51). Click their name to go to their homepage or, alternatively, click the below banner to go straight to the product page:

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