When I think of my ideal moisturizer, I have an oddly specific list of requirements. I want a thick formula that feels weighty to the touch, but is light enough for everyday wear and sinks into the skin within seconds. I want it packed with super-hydrators and barrier-loving ingredients, but nothing that will clog my pores or cause irritation or acne. I want something with clinical data to back its claims and, while not a deal breaker, I love a beautiful product I can leave out on my vanity.
And now, with the launch of the new Summer Fridays Rich Cushion Cream Ultra Plumping Moisturizer, I can have exactly that.
Ingredient callouts
Glycerin: a humectant that draws water into the skin to improve hydration
Squalane: a skin-softening emollient that offers antioxidant protection and enhances skin’s moisture levels
Allantoin: a multi-tasking ingredient that soothes, exfoliates, hydrates, softens, and smooths skin
Chamomile: a naturally-derived calming ingredient soothes sensitive skin, alleviates redness, and relieves inflammation
- Hydrates and softens skin
- Won’t clog pores
- Lightweight-yet-rich
- Expensive
Packed with glycerin, squalane, chamomile, and allantoin, the Rich Cushion Cream is clinically proven (via independent clinical and consumer studies) to improve hydration both immediately and over time. It’s plumping, calming, and barrier-supporting, but is non-comedogenic which means it works its magic without clogging your pores. The fragrance-free formula even received the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance, which is given to products that have undergone rigorous testing for sensitivity, irritation, and toxicity, and meet the strict standards of NEA’s Scientific Oversight Committee.
While the moisturizer’s laundry list of accolades and benefits is compelling enough, it’s the soothing texture and melty consistency that impress me most. The cream looks and feels ultra thick at first, almost like a pat of room-temperature butter. But upon application, it breaks down and sinks into the skin with little effort on my end. It immediately soothes deep within the skin, wrapping my complexion up in a cozy little blanket of moisture and leaving a lightweight burst of hydration at the surface. It’s also surprisingly versatile, especially for such a rich cream. The brand suggests using the cream day and night, as a moisturizing makeup primer in the morning and the last step in your skincare routine at bedtime. While I tend to opt for something a bit more lightweight during the day, I love the 24/7 hydration I get from the Rich Cushion Cream—I can feel the difference. I’ve paired with upwards of 5 different SPFs and several full faces of makeup to boot, and there’s been zero pilling.
And, like all of Summer Fridays products, the packaging itself is stunning. The baby blue jar is understated but luxe and looks great on my vanity. My one gripe, and it’s a small one, is that I hate sticking my grubby little fingers into a jar—I’d much prefer a pump or tube, or at the very least an included little scooper. Luckily, I have a sizable collection of my own scoopers to use; you won’t find claw marks in my jar.
It’s yet another hit from Summer Fridays—certainly not surprising at this point (if you’ve tried any of the brand’s other products, you know exactly what I mean), but undeniably impressive. I’m waiting for the next launch with bated breath, but until then, you’ll find me slathering on the Rich Cushion Cream day and night.