For perfect coverage: how to use a makeup sponge correctly?
Questions and answers
A makeup sponge is an indispensable tool in a makeup artist’s arsenal, without which you feel like you have no hands. We decided to understand all the intricacies of using a sponge in order to get a magical result every time!
Ever since American makeup artist Rhea Ann Silva created the beautyblender makeup sponge, ideas about applying liquid and cream textures have changed dramatically. And although the famous sponge is already about 17 years old, it received the love of the general public only a few years ago. Why is he so good?
Rea Ann Silva set herself the goal of creating not only a convenient makeup sponge, but also a miracle tool that will make the face perfectly smooth and the skin tone perfectly even, but without the effect of a mask. After some time, the soft, pointed pink egg became a real bestseller, because it allowed even beginners and amateurs to apply “complex” textures and perform various techniques.
Today, there are a huge number of universal sponges that are similar in shape and characteristics to the famous beautyblender, so makeup artists have plenty to choose from. We have already told you which makeup sponge to choose based on your goals and needs, and today we will dwell in more detail on how to properly use a beauty blender and its analogues.
Do size and shape matter?
It is advisable that your makeup artist’s case have several different sponges: smaller and larger, an egg sponge or a wedge-shaped sponge. Larger options make it easy and convenient to apply foundation, BB or CC cream. Small sponges are ideal for the area around the eyes, for working around the nose and correcting defects. Also, do not forget to use both sides of the sponge - this allows you to save time and, if necessary, create the entire face makeup with just one tool.
Dry or wet sponge?
How to use a makeup sponge correctly - dry or wet? Celebrity makeup artists advise applying makeup exclusively with a damp sponge. It is enough to wet it and squeeze out all the excess liquid in order to get a perfectly smooth and extremely thin coating in the near future. Moreover, in this case, the sponge absorbs much less product than in dry form.
Where to apply the product?
First, apply the foundation to the palette or the back of your hand, and only then use a sponge and distribute the product over the skin. If you apply foundation directly to the sponge, you will get a very dense coverage, and it will be much more difficult to distribute it correctly. In addition, the cost of funds in this case will be much greater.
What movements should you perform?
Do not rub or pull the sponge over the skin. Instead, gently blot the desired area using a tapping motion until a flawless skin tone is achieved. Use the same technique when applying concealer under your eyes and cream blush on your cheeks. If everything is done correctly, tinting or corrective beauty products should not be noticeable on your client’s skin at all.
For what products should I use it?
Sponges like beautyblender can be used to apply completely different products. Foundations, concealers, correctors, liquid blushes and highlighters... Makeup artists recommend applying even loose powder when doing makeup using the baking technique with a damp sponge to get the effect of truly “baked” makeup.
How to properly clean makeup sponges?
After each use, the sponge must be washed in warm water using special cleansers; in extreme cases, mild liquid soap or baby shampoo will do. Place the sponge under water and massage the makeup stains until the sponge comes out clean. Squeeze the water out of the sponge until it stops foaming. You can dry the instrument on a clean towel, or ideally in a special mesh bag. Don't forget to change the sponge every two to three months to avoid skin problems for your clients.