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 a flawless makeup look.
A makeup sponge is one of the most versatile tools when it comes to makeup. Designed to help you apply and blend out your favorite cream, liquid or powder 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’d use certain makeup brushes to create particular looks and or get desired finishes, there’s 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 application to ensure it’s flawless every time—below, we break down how, when, and where to use our holy-grail beauty sponges, plus cleaning tips and travel hacks.
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 bag.
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 under-eye bags!
To use, dampen the sponge and squeeze out any excess water (remember: damp, not wet!). Apply concealer to the desired areas of your face, (it’s the perfect pair to our Camo Concealer!), then “bounce” the sponge’s points and edges to create a seamless finish.
Pear-shaped Makeup Sponge
Apply foundation, blend out blush, and contour your look to perfection with one sponge—our pear-shaped Blending Sponge does it all!
This uniquely shaped sponge features a full-sized, rounded base that’s ideal for applying makeup over large surface areas (especially the lower half of your face: cheeks, chin, etc.) 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 an easy, smooth application with total e.l.f.ing control.
To use, dip the sponge into your foundation or concealer and then 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 a liquid sponge cleaner to create a lather.
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Continue to wash your sponge by massaging and rubbing the soap throughout until the sponge is free of makeup stains; repeat and rinse until all of the soap is out of your sponge and the water runs clear.
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Squeeze out any water and set it on a paper towel and let it dry completely before your next use.
How Often Should You Replace Makeup Sponges?
Even with regular cleanings, blending sponges should be replaced far more often than brushes. We recommend switching out your sponges every one-to-three months.
With daily use, face sponges can pick up and hold on to bacteria and old liquid formulas, so it's important to part ways with and replace your sponges frequently in order to protect your skin. Luckily, all of our e.l.f. sponges are $7 and under, so replacing your old sponge won’t break the bank!