After years of applying foundation with my fingertips, I was ready to give beauty tools a shot. My hands weren't cutting it when it came to blending — and I was sick of accidentally getting concealer all over my clothes. I also knew, though, that I wouldn't regularly clean a makeup brush. My solution was to finally put the world's most popular makeup sponge — the Beautyblender — to the test.
After a single use, I was convinced that my life would never be the same. Once you learn how to use a makeup sponge to apply foundation, you'll feel exactly the same. It seems relatively foolproof, but there's actually a right and a wrong way to use the porous tool. So to help you get the best foundation finish of your life, we caught up with MUA Kelli J. Bartlett for an incredibly simple breakdown.
Meet the expert
Kelli J. Bartlett is a professional makeup artist and the Artistic Director of Glamsquad,
Keep scrolling for how to apply foundation with a sponge — plus the benefits of doing so.
How to Apply Foundation With a Makeup Sponge
Wet the Sponge
You should never use a makeup sponge dry to apply foundation, especially if it's a Beautyblender, says Bartlett. She recommends squishing it under water about eight times until it's fully saturated. Then, wring out the excess water. Not only will this give you more of a natural finish that you can build upon, but it also won't allow the sponge to soak up excess foundation.
Get Your Foundation on the Sponge
Next, dip the sponge into your foundation. If you're using a Beautyblender, dip the larger, rounded side in the foundation — as opposed to the thinner, pointier side. This way, you'll be able to cover more surface area.
Apply the Foundation on Your Skin
Then, gently press or roll the sponge onto your skin to provide coverage. "Bouncing or dabbing is preferred as it allows the product to melt into your skin, creating a seamless finish," explains Bartlett.
If you're using a Beautyblender, use the pointy edge to target hard-to-reach areas like around the nose. Bartlett also recommends using this side to conceal and brighten the under-eye area.
You'll need to clean your sponge the same as a makeup brush. You can use your brush cleanser or create a lather with your regular facial cleanser — just be sure to thoroughly rinse and squeeze until you don't see any suds.
Benefits of Using a Sponge
Makeup artists like Barlett love using a sponge (instead of a brush or your fingers) because it's easier to sheer out creams and liquids. Moreover, since the sponge doesn't have bristles, it helps prevent the streaks from a brush.
Also, makeup sponges tend to be more affordable than brushes — especially if the latter is name-brand. Another reason to apply foundation with a makeup sponge instead of a brush? The sponge creates less friction, which is better for your skin in the long run.
The Final Takeaway
All that said, though, you still want to choose the application method that's best for you. Try applying your foundation with a makeup sponge and see how you like it. If you're not wild about the process or results, go back to using your brush — or even your fingers.
