Here’s How To Use a Beautyblender for Perfect Makeup
Most of us can’t live without our beautyblender. Since the original beautyblender burst onto the scene, makeup sponges have become a ubiquitous part of the cosmetic landscape.
While seemingly intuitive, there’s a right and wrong way of using a makeup sponge. When poorly used, makeup looks streaky, patchy, and the sponge may deposit pore-clogging bacteria onto your skin, causing breakouts.
The good news is that learning how to apply foundation with a beautyblender is easy. The even better news is that your beautyblender’s uses go beyond creating flawless foundation. You can use these makeup sponges for everything from applying your favorite BB cream, nourishing serums, or concealer to creating seamless eye makeup looks, blending contour, highlighter, and much more.
Here’s how to use a beautyblender, including tips and tricks for mastering your makeup sponge.
What is a beautyblender?
A beautyblender is a cosmetic sponge designed for applying foundation and other makeup so flawlessly that people think you’ve been photoshopped. This ability lies in the product’s super absorbent composition and shape. The product’s contours let you apply cosmetics to hard-to-reach areas as effectively as any other part of your face. You can purchase this makeup sponge in four shapes, each designed for a specific makeup application task.
1. The teardrop
This is the OG beautyblender sponge, designed for foundation application. Use the broad base to apply product to larger areas of your face. The pointed end lets you get into tight, hard-to-reach places like the corner of your eyes and the creases of your nose.
2. The oval
If you need a smaller, more precise sponge, look no further than an oval-shaped beautyblender. Thanks to its small size and dual pointy ends, it’s the perfect tool to apply concealer under the eyes and around the nose.
3. The teardrop with a flat edge
This sponge looks like the original beautyblender, only with a flat side angling down from the base toward the tip. This specialized shape makes it easy to blend concealer to get a velvety finish, and you can also use it to add contour and bronzer with precision.
4. The pear shape
The unique hourglass-like shape of this makeup sponge makes it easier to grip than the traditional teardrop, offering more control during application. This sponge works well with powdered and liquid cosmetics. It also makes adding highlighter or cream blush to your look a breeze.
How to use a makeup sponge
Air-brushed, full-coverage makeup doesn’t simply happen because you use a beautyblender. Foundation needs to be applied following this easy step-by-step tutorial to achieve the velvety, flawless finish you desire.
Step 1: Prime your canvas
Always begin with cleansed and moisturized skin. You’ll hydrate patchy spots, shrink pores, and rid yourself of any excess oil which can hamper a smooth, even makeup application. Once clean and dry, apply a layer of primer to help your foundation settle smoothly and last longer.
Step 2: Wet the sponge
You should never use a beautyblender without dampening it first. Not only will this help achieve an even, streak-free application, but you’ll also keep the sponge from absorbing too much product, making it easier to put it on your face. Run it under water until the sponge doubles in size, gently squeezing it with a paper towel to eliminate excess moisture.
Step 4: Apply your foundation
Pour a small amount of liquid foundation onto the back of your hand and dab the makeup sponge in it. Apply your makeup using a stippling motion against the skin — bounce the sponge against your face. Don't wipe or drag the beautyblender against your skin, or your foundation will look streaky and patchy.
Now that you’ve achieved a smooth, velvety foundation, use a different makeup sponge to add some definition to your face with blush, contour, and highlighter. Don’t forget to fix your makeup with a spritz of setting spray.
Taking care of your sponge
Always clean your makeup sponge post-use. A damp beautyblender is a breeding ground for mold and breakout-spawning bacteria.
There are a few ways to clean your makeup sponge. The easiest is adding a few squirts of mild soap, face wash, or a specially formulated blender cleanser to the sponge, squeezing it to work up a lather, then rinsing under warm water until the water runs clear. Once clean, set it on the counter to dry thoroughly before putting it away.
With regular care, your beautyblender should last 4–6 months, depending on how often you use it. If you notice any tears or a bad smell, say goodbye and replace it with a new sponge.
What else can you do with a beautyblender?
Laying down velvety foundation isn’t the only thing you can do with makeup sponges. Use your beautyblender for any of the following application processes.
Eyeshadow application
Micro mini beautyblenders like Blend Out Mini Makeup Duo are the perfect size and shape to create a gorgeous, seamless eye makeup look. These sponges work well with powders, liquids, and creams, replacing all the eye makeup brushes on your vanity.
Clean up mistakes
Sometimes, makeup application doesn’t go to plan. Use your sponge to blend out streaks, absorb excess makeup, and clean up rogue eyeshadow.
Try your hand at nail art
Breathe new life into old makeup sponges by cutting them into pieces to create stamps for unique, TikTok-ready nail polish designs.
Get a sun-kissed glow
Use a beautyblender to apply self-tanner evenly. These sponges are especially good at adding self-tanning lotion to the back of your hands, an often-forgotten area that looks great bronzed.
The finished look
Beautyblenders are a great multi-purpose tool to add to your makeup bag. They’re easy to use and improve the look of nearly every type of makeup.
If you’re unsure which beauty sponge suits your needs, check out video reviews on Flip. Our community will give you the dos and don'ts of all the products you’re considering.
