This solar product from South Korea exploded by more than 1,000% on TikTok in one year.
Cushion sunglasses are the new beauty must-have for 2026. Somewhere between K-beauty and TikTok virality, this compact format is seducing those who want to protect their skin without compromising their make-up. But where does this sudden craze for new-generation sun protection come from?
A format from South Korea that changes everything
Faced with growing awareness of the dangers of sun exposure, consumers are now looking to reconcile summer glow with skin protection. Premature ageing, pigmentation spots and skin cancers are prompting consumers to rethink their SPF routine. In this quest for a “safe” tan, a product from South Korea is making a name for itself: cushion sunscreens.
Powered by K-beauty, this format transforms sun protection into a chic, on-the-go gesture. The principle remains simple: a sponge impregnated with a liquid SPF formula, integrated into a compact. It is applied with a puff like a cushion foundation. The result? Easy touch-up without ruining make-up in the process.
“After SPF sticks and over-makeup mists, sun cushions confirm a new beauty obsession – making sun protection more desirable.”
TikTok, a major trend-setter
According to data from Spate’s Popularity Index, the trend has exploded by over 1,000% in one year. Unsurprisingly, TikTok is leading the way in this skincare revolution. Almost 89% of the phenomenon’s popularity comes directly from the platform.
Videos about sunscreen cushions are racking up over 165,000 average weekly views. The hashtags #spf, #kbeauty and #spfovermakeup already dominate beauty FYPs (For You Page). This massive visibility largely explains the rapid adoption of the format by Gen Z.
- Compact size ideal for daytime touch-ups
- Puff application without damaging make-up
- Invisible, moisturizing textures
- Elegant, make-up-inspired design
- Viral popularity on TikTok
Why cushion sunglasses are so appealing
Behind this success lies a reality: consumers are looking for sunscreens that look more like makeup products. Gone are the thick, sticky white screens that put off so many users. K-beauty has perfectly understood this expectation, with brands such as Round Lab, Elroel and Bring Green.
These brands impose invisible, moisturizing textures designed for everyday use. The cushion format meets a specific need: to integrate sun protection into a beauty routine without constraint. What’s more, the gesture becomes almost pleasant, far removed from the laborious application of classic creams.
In this way, cushion suncare transforms an act of preventive health care into a moment of cosmetic pleasure. This approach is particularly appealing to a connected generation, sensitive to aesthetics and minimalist skincare rituals. As a result, the format fits perfectly with the trend for hybrid skincare/make-up products.
Some experts’ reservations
However, the phenomenon still divides the dermatological community. Some dermatologists point out that one cushion is not always enough to apply the amount of SPF needed for optimum protection. The recommended dose remains difficult to achieve with this format.
Others point to the high price of these products or the hygiene issues associated with puff. Indeed, the sponge can accumulate bacteria and residues if not cleaned regularly. Despite these reservations, the popularity of K-beauty continues unabated.
A selection of cushion solar products to know in 2026
Several brands are now offering their version of this trendy format. Sisley launches Phyto-Blanc Le Cushion 00C Swan at €117.50, a high-end option for demanding skin. This cushion combines radiance and protection in a refined case.
La Mer offers Cushion Lift et Éclat with SPF 20 at €147. This luxury reference relies on the lifting and luminous effect so dear to the brand. For a more affordable budget, Yepoda offers The Dewy Day at €35, a cushion foundation with niacinamide, apricot and SPF 30.
These cushion sunglasses represent different price ranges and meet different needs. So everyone can find the right product for their budget and skin type. The market is set to continue expanding in response to growing demand.
One thing’s for sure: cushion sunglasses are part of an underlying trend aimed at making sun protection more desirable. At a time when a large proportion of Gen Z remains wary of conventional suncare products, this format could well change all that.
