This Foundation Has Everyone Talking And Has Gone Viral On TikTok – Here Are My Honest Thoughts

I'm someone who rarely gives into hype, because my experience of buying into beauty products promising the world is that they rarely deliver. So, when TIRTIR’s Mask Fit Red Cushion Foundation started popping up everywhere, I was intrigued but cautious (no matter how flawless it looked on TikTok). For starters, getting your hands on it in the UK seemed to be nearly impossible, and the original shade range - just three shades -was, frankly, diabolical. But one thing was undeniable: the coverage looked incredible.

The buzz around it has been impossible to ignore. Affectionately nicknamed the 'red egg,' this product has taken the internet by storm. Since 2023, it has dominated TikTok ‘For You’ pages, racking up a 561% year-on-year increase in views globally and causing a 64% surge in UK Google searches.

Fast forward to now and, thankfully, TIRTIR listened to the demands of beauty lovers everywhere. The brand has expanded the shade range from three to an impressive 40, making it far more inclusive. Plus, accessibility is no longer an issue – you can now buy it easily online at Boots.

What does the TIRTIR Mask Fit Red Cushion Foundation do?

TIRTIR’s claims are bold: up to 72 hours of flawless, fade-resistant coverage with a natural, semi-matte finish. The lightweight formula supposedly blends like a dream, camouflaging imperfections and evening out skin tone while keeping skin happy and hydrated. Does this product live up to the hype, though? Here are my honest thoughts.

Final verdict:

Cushion foundations and I have a complicated relationship. They often leave me looking like I’ve been dusted with chalk. But K-beauty brands seem to operate on a different plane of existence, and TIRTIR has clearly cracked the code.

I tested the shade 45N Saddle Brown, which worked well on my complexion, though it leaned a little cool. Initially, the finish felt quite matte and dry – something I wasn’t used to, as I usually reach for glowier options like the NARS Radiant Creamy Foundation or Saie Glowy Super Skin Tint. But as the day went on, the formula warmed up beautifully on my skin (it slightly oxidises).

(left: swatch) (right: with products mentioned below)

The sponge applicator took some getting used to (I’m a brush loyalist), and I initially panicked about blending. Pro tip: tap lightly and use quick motions.

The foundation also worked seamlessly with my usual go-to products: Too Faced concealer, Laura Mercier powder, and Fenty setting spray. Despite forgetting to prime, my make-up stayed flawless all day and, even after a full day of staring at a computer screen, it still looked fresh.

(after a full 8 hours)

Colour me impressed. At £17.50 at Boots, it’s also a relative bargain compared to some of the other foundations in my make-up bag. So, have I even given in to the hype on this product? Honestly? Yes, it’s pretty darn good.

Shop: The The Viral TIRTIR Mask Fit Foundation

Renee Washington, Grazia's digital fashion and beauty assistant, lives online. With a penchant for wispy lashes and streetwear, she writes about the worlds of fashion and beauty from the viewpoint of the modern fashion girlie..