If you’re working to apply streak-free foundation, sculpt your cheeks and conceal imperfections, arming yourself with the right beauty sponge—and using it correctly—will make all the difference in creating an e.l.f.ing stunning makeup look.
A makeup sponge is a versatile tool designed to help you apply and blend out your favorite cream, liquid or powder makeup products. Once upon a time, the makeup sponge only came in the form of a disposable white triangle—but today, this easy-to-use makeup tool comes in a variety of different shapes, sizes and colors that each have a unique purpose. Just like you use certain makeup brushes to create particular looks and finishes, there are also a wide range of beauty sponges out there for the same reason.
Choosing the right beauty sponge can be overwhelming, so we’re taking guesswork out of your next makeup application to ensure it’s flawless every time—below, we break down how, when and where to use seven of our holy grail beauty sponges, plus cleaning tips and tricks.
Dual-pointed Makeup Sponge
When it comes to covering up imperfections and dark undereye circles, you need your concealer application to be on point (literally!). That’s why a dual-pointed makeup sponge—like our soft, latex-free Camo Concealer Sponge—is a must-have tool in your makeup arsenal.
An almond-shaped beauty sponge is ideal for applying concealer because it features fine-pointed ends that fit easily into tough-to-reach areas of the face, plus rounded, angled sides that allow for flawless blending. See ya later, blemishes and undereye bags!
To use, dampen the makeup blender sponge and squeeze out excess water. Apply concealer to the desired areas of your face (it’s the perfect complement to our Camo CC Cream and 16 HR Camo Concealer!), then “bounce” the sponge’s points and edges to create a seamless finish.
Pear-shaped Makeup Sponge
Apply foundation, blend it out and contour your look to perfection with one sponge—our pear-shaped Blending Sponge does it all!
This uniquely shaped cosmetic sponge features a full-sized, rounded base that’s ideal for applying makeup over large surface areas (especially the lower half of your face) to create a full-coverage base and layer color; it also boasts a more narrow tip that’s ideal for targeting hard-to-reach areas or contouring your makeup look. Plus, the curved shape fits comfortably in your hand for creating a smooth application with total e.l.f.ing control.
To use, dip the sponge into your foundation or concealer and apply to the face using a stippling motion, lightly dabbing the product to blend. Use the rounded end to cover large areas and the tapered end around the nose, mouth and eyes.
How to Clean Makeup Sponges
Face makeup sponges are a must-have tool for applying and blending your favorite makeup products. But with a job like that, these tools need to be cleaned thoroughly and frequently.
The good news is, cleaning a beauty blender is very simple:
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Thoroughly wet the sponge with water
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Massage it across a solid sponge cleaner or apply a small amount of mild soap to create a lather
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Rub it along a silicone makeup brush cleaning glove until the sponge is free of makeup stains; repeat and rinse until the water runs clear
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Set it on a paper towel and let it dry completely before your next use
To protect your foundation sponge from dirt and grime on the go and in between cleanings, store it in a durable makeup sponge holder. Look for a protective case with plenty of vents to help your sponge dry completely in between uses.
How Often Should You Replace Makeup Sponges?
Even with regular cleanings, blending sponges should be replaced far more often than brushes—about every one-to-three months.
With daily use, face sponges pick up and hold on to bacteria and old liquid makeup, so it's important to part ways with and replace your sponges frequently in order to protect your skin.