Incorrectly preparing the sponge before use is probably the biggest sin. You’ll waste more of your makeup, as the sponge will absorb product faster. You must thoroughly soak the sponge under the running tap, allowing it to expand fully, then squeeze it several times, to get rid of excess water.
Application Techniques
You want a ‘tap tap tap roll’ kind of style, swiping is a no no. By tapping and bouncing you’ll get excellent coverage. Allowing the product to melt into the skin, creating a streak-free, seamless finish.
If you want to sheer out your foundation in a area, say when you get to the perimeter of your face, then you can make a longer swiping motions.
What products can you use with a beauty sponge
Any cream or liquid face products, e.g. foundations, concealer, bronzer, contour, highlighters, blush work well with a sponge. I do see some people using them at the end of their routine, with loose powder to set their makeup. This will give a slightly heavier application of powder however and I personally prefer to use a small fluffy brush for setting, especially my under eyes.
Selecting your beauty sponge
With the rise of The Beauty Blender, many companies jumped on the bandwagon and launched similar types of sponges, not all are equal though. They range in density, shape and size. I find, a softer lighter density better to work with feels nicer on the face and quicker. In terms of size, it’s up to you! There are some excellent mini ones around that fit well under the eyes; great for helping conceal the dreaded dark circles.
Cleaning your beauty sponge
Cleanliness is next to godliness in the makeup world, and makeup sponges are no different. Just like washing your makeup brushes is a non-skippable essential, the same rule applies to sponges (even more so in fact!). They are perfect for harbouring plenty of gross things, so clean them regularly with a good soap or, to be honest, even your face wash will do. Let the sponge properly finish air drying before putting it back in your makeup bag.
Tip: if you’re finding it difficult to clean a product out of the sponge. Get a bowl of warm water with a few dashes of oil from the kitchen, squeeze and soak it in that for a while. The oil will draw out the cream makeup product. After soaking, rewash your blender with soap, kind of like a double cleanse.
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