Makeup sponges are my favorite way to apply foundation and blend out concealer under the eyes. There are so many brands of sponges on the market and I’ve tried a bunch. The way sponges push the product into the skin to create a flawless airbrushed look is just unmatched. I still love my brushes for some formulas but even if I begin with a brush I always finish with a good makeup sponge. Makeup sponges typically last about 3 months depending on use and care.
Makeup sponges are intended to be used wet but some state to use them dry as well. The type of material of the sponge will determine if it is best to use wet or dry. Most people do not read packaging but it will state the best way to use it on the package.
Here are my top 3 makeup sponges that I use and really enjoy.
The Original Beautyblender
The Beautyblender is the original in the makeup sponge game. They started the craze and they continue to do it right. The Beautyblender comes in all kinds of colors. They have really expanded from the original hot pink one. This makeup sponge is super soft and durable. When it is ran under water the sponge expands. This aids in flawless application because it holds the minimum amount of water for perfect application. It is hydrophilic, meaning it is designed to absorb water, as most are. Since it was designed to absorb water it works best when damp.
I’ve noticed that different colors perform a bit different these days. I’m not sure why that is the case. I like the black one the best. It is easy to keep clean and it doesn’t show stains when using highly pigmented products. This is the most expensive out of the bunch. It cost about $20 but check current pricing online. It has a tear drop shape that is great for overall application. This shape is no longer my favorite. Companies have really stepped outside the box with sponges since they have flooded the market.
EcoTools Makeup Total Perfecting Blender
This is a recent discovery. I needed to replace some sponges. I was at Walmart and saw this makeup sponge so I decided to give it a try. It is about $5 and I must say it works just as wonderful as the Beautyblender. The shape is pretty fantastic as well. The Perfecting Blender has 2 flat sides to make it easy to set under the eyes or to use for blending cream contour products. This is my favorite shape of sponge yet. It is so soft and it expands well when wet. This sponge tears much easier because it is so soft. The first day I wet and squeezed out the water it tore in a few spots and I hadn’t even applied makeup yet. So unlike the Beautyblender this one does not last as long before having to throw it out.
Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge
The Miracle Complexion Sponge is a wonderful sponge as well. This sponge has a nice shape. It is my second favorite shape to use. The bottom portion is flat instead of round. It cost about $5. There are many sponges by Real Techniques but the original orange one and the orange body sponge are my favorite. It gets the job done beautifully. These last a bit longer than the Beautyblender as far as tearing. For the price it is a great deal.
Sponges VS Brushes
What’s the difference between using a brush and using a makeup sponge? Depending on the formula there is a big difference. There is also a difference in how long you can keep each tool.
Sponges last for about 3 months when they are taken care of properly. Brushes on the other hand can last for years. Even inexpensive brushes can last for years when taken care of properly. You have to replace sponges far more often then you do brushes.
Sponges help to blend complexion products flawlessly because of how the product is pushed into the skin. Brushes on the other hand just don’t do that as easy. You can absolutely get a flawless application but it takes a bit more blending.
Do you have a favorite Makeup Sponge? Do you prefer Makeup Brushes? Comment down below.
Want to know how I clean my sponges and brushes? Check it out here.
Thanks for hanging out!
XO Terreana