Beautyblender sponges are so well-known in the makeup world that the brand name is often used interchangeably with “makeup sponge.” However, not all makeup sponges are created equal. While you can find sponges almost anywhere, they don’t have the same reputation or guaranteed performance as the original Beautyblender. The brand was founded in 2003 by makeup artist Rea Ann Silva, and it’s safe to say that it’s a leader in the sponge category.
Her trademark is flawless application, but to achieve that perfect combination you need to know how to use it correctly. Fortunately, Silva recently spoke with Sun about the most common mistakes people make with their Beautyblenders – essential reading for anyone who owns or plans to own one.
“Always apply your foundation with a damp Beautyblender,” Silva told the outlet. “People forget to wet their Beautyblender, but it’s so important. This will melt the product into your skin and help you achieve a beautiful, natural look.” Using it damp not only helps achieve that airbrushed look, but it also absorbs less product. That’s why the founder emphasizes, “Don’t use it dry. Don’t waste your makeup.” Silva explains, “Just like your skin, you have to hydrate your Beautyblender,” she says. “Always use it damp,” adding that you should moisten it and squeeze out any excess water before applying product to your skin.
Buy the original Beautyblender makeup sponge
SHOP AT SEPHORA – $20
Silva suggests a specific application technique for best results. “Don’t drag your skin or drag your Beautyblender, especially around the eyes,” she says, and recommends dabbing and blending with the brush — that is, gently tapping it on your skin to apply and blend rather than dragging or swirling it around like you would with a traditional makeup brush.
“It’s really important to have your skin prepped and balanced before applying your skincare products,” she adds. “This prevents creasing and caking, and helps your makeup last longer throughout the day. I like to use a sunscreen under my foundation, something light. If you have skin texture issues, using a makeup primer helps even out your skin texture and increase wear.”
As noted on the brand’s website, the Beautyblender needs “light and air to prevent mold growth.” They recommend using the sponge container’s lid as a drying pedestal for the damp sponge when not in use. For a more formal drying station, Amazon has plenty of aesthetically pleasing options.
While it may not be realistic for everyone, the brand recommends washing your Beautyblender after every use, as mentioned on their blog. Silva emphasizes this in her interview: “Wash your Beautyblender with our Blendercleanser after use to prevent bacterial growth and increase the longevity of your sponge.” One of their most popular cleansers is the Blendercleanser Solid, which you simply rub your sponge on to create a lather, rinse, squeeze, and repeat the process, then lay it out to dry on the silicone mat that comes with it. Easy peasy!
Blendercleanser® Solid Cleanser by Beautyblender
SHOP AT SEPHORA – $18
