Comparison of Shade Diversity: Korean vs. Western Cushion Fo

Korean Cushion Foundations: Shade Diversity Typical Shade Range: Most Korean cushion foundations offer only 3–5 shades, with the vast majority targeting fair to light-medium skin tones. The most common shades are labeled as #21, #23, and occasionally #13 or #25, but even the darkest options rarely suit medium or deep skin. Undertone Variety: Undertones are usually limited, often skewing neutral or yellow. Brands like rom&nd and Jung Saem Mool are praised for offering slightly more flexible undertones, with rom&nd’s “Sand” shade notably avoiding the orange cast common in deeper Korean shades. Market Focus: This limited range is a reflection of Korea’s relatively homogenous population and local beauty standards that favor lighter, brighter skin. Some cushions even have intentional whitening effects. Recent Improvements: A few brands have responded to global demand. TIRTIR’s Mask Fit Cushion line now offers up to 40 shades, a dramatic exception among Korean brands and a direct response to international feedback. Jung Saem Mool has expanded to seven shades, and Dr. Gio Seoul launched with six shades aimed at deeper tones, though these are still rare cases. Western Cushion Foundations: Shade Diversity Typical Shade Range: Western brands generally offer a broader spectrum, often launching cushion foundations with 6–16 shades, and sometimes up to 40 (e.g., TIRTIR’s international version, Ruby Kisses). Brands like Bobbi Brown, Dior, and Em Cosmetics provide more inclusive options, though not always as extensive as their liquid foundation lines. Undertone Variety: Western foundations typically include a range of undertones-cool, warm, neutral, and sometimes olive-catering to a global and diverse customer base. Inclusivity as Standard: Broader shade diversity is standard practice for Western brands, reflecting the needs of multicultural markets.