Make-up sponges: different types and how to use them
Now you no longer need to rely on your fingers!
And you definitely won’t want to use them to apply your make-up products, such as foundation or concealer, after learning all about make-up sponges!
Although it’s not the most hygienic way to apply foundation or BB creams, some people use their hands, and by using your fingers you can transfer bacteria to your face. It is also much more comfortable to use a make-up sponge specifically designed for this task!
Its practical design provides ultimate softness when applying cream products and you will immediately notice an even, easy-to-achieve result.
Types of make-up brushes
But how do you know which sponge is right for the make-up you want? Sponges come in all types, colours and sizes.
Let’s discover them together so you can find your inspiration.
PRECISION BLENDER
Loved by make-up artists, the most popular type is the egg-shaped blender: a small, rounded sponge with a pointed tip.
These sponges are handy because of their size as well as their comfortable tip, which is perfect for applying make-up to the smallest corners of the face and camouflaging small imperfections.
It’s perfect for applying foundation and liquid products as its porosity ensures textures are completely absorbed and gradually released onto the skin when used. Its double-sided design also makes it more convenient to use. With the flat side you can perfect your nose or lip contour and define specific areas or edges. Meanwhile, the curved part allows you to contour your face and apply bronzer or foundation to your cheekbones. Finally, the rounder part is perfect for applying an even base all over the face.
FOUNDATION BRUSHES
The sponge for liquid, cream and powder products looks like a small square. Its texture is extremely soft. It’s perfect for foundation as well as for finishing your make-up when applying powder: take the product out of the packet and then gently dab it on your face.
Another type also designed for liquid foundations is the blender sponge: it offers the practicality of a rounded shape for applying the product as well as a tip for precise finishes. The ergonomic shape of the central part makes it easier to grip the sponge.
THE TRIANGULAR SPONGE
Triangular sponges are perfect for flawless make-up: you can apply a product to a specific area of your face with extreme precision. The triangle shape is ideal for applying both liquid and compact foundations.
You can choose whether to use the wide part of the sponge—i.e. the side of the triangle—to apply the product, or whether to use the corner to retouch small areas such as the hollow of the chin, the corners of the nose or even around the eyes: all those areas that are usually difficult to reach with sponges designed for large coverage.
SPONGE EYESHADOW APPLICATORS
Are there any sponges for easy eyeshadow application? The answer is yes.
KIKO MILANO has created handy sponge eyeshadow applicators that are extremely easy and practical to use.
They offer a very firm yet soft sponge for a really smooth application. They also feature a double tip: one allows you to apply the product and the other is tapered for blending. Two applicators in one product... what more could you ask for!
How to use make-up sponges
As we have already seen, a make-up sponge is a valuable tool for applying foundation, concealer and highlighter as well as enhancing your face and features with contouring techniques. Thanks to its small size, it’s both practical and convenient.
The make-up sponge's strength lies in its ability to provide flawless and even coverage. Its softness is like a gentle caress and will help prevent redness (which can sometimes be caused due to the firm touch of your hands).
It’s a true must-have in your beauty kit! But, how can it be used?
The first technique is used to create a natural-looking make-up look. Here are the steps:
• Get a small bowl of water and soak the sponge
• Squeeze it out well
• Apply some product to the back of your hand (about the size of a cherry stone)
• Dab the back of your hand with the sponge to absorb the make-up
• Then dab it onto your face using circular movements. This will ensure that the product looks even
• Dip the sponge back into the water, wring it out and dab it onto your face again to fix your make-up
If you want to apply more opaque or elaborate make-up (e.g. contouring), you can use the sponge for cream or stick products. These are the steps to follow:
• Apply the cream or stick product you want to use to your face
• Take your make-up sponge and start dabbing on the parts of your face where you want to apply your make-up
• Blend as much as possible, especially around the areas between one colour and another. This is why the make-up sponge is perfect as it allows you to mix different shades together and achieve flawless blending.
Cleaning your sponges
Cleaning your sponges is essential to keep them clean and in good condition.
We know that when you do your make-up, you never want to immediately rearrange all your sponges, brushes or other make-up accessories. You don’t need to do it after every application, but you should remember to clean your beauty case as well as your sponges at least two to three times a week.
How to clean make-up sponges
It isn’t a difficult process: just use some lukewarm water and mild soap (we recommend a bar of soap that lathers well). Here’s how to wash a sponge:
• Dip the sponge in a glass of water. You will see the water change colour from the products used. Wring out the sponge and rinse it again until you see the water gradually become clearer
• Now take a pH neutral bar of soap and run your sponge over it. Create a foam
• Rinse off the sponge
• If the sponge no longer releases coloured water, then your sponge is ready to be thoroughly squeezed out. Otherwise, repeat the steps above
• After squeezing it out, leave it to air dry
• Wait until the sponge is completely dry before storing it in your beauty case, otherwise there is a risk of bacteria or mould forming. Never leave the sponge wet!
Now that you’ve discovered this new make-up companion, you just have to start using it or, if you were already aware of its incredible benefits, simply choose the one that suits you best. And remember to always wash your sponge and take care of it for the best results.