Makeup Sponges: How To Choose, Use, Clean, And Store Them

What Is a Makeup Sponge?

Makeup sponges, also sometimes referred to as beauty sponges, are soft, absorbent tools that are used to apply foundation and other makeup products. They are best for applying makeup liquid or cream products, but you can also use a makeup sponge to blend and set powder. 

Typically shaped like an egg or a teardrop, there are several different kinds of makeup sponges. According to Spickard, “the ones you see most often are the larger egg-shaped beauty sponges, like Beautyblender, with the large rounded base, which is great for bouncing and blending in foundation, while the pointed tip is great for more precise blending like concealer under the eye.”  

Makeup sponges come in reusable and single-use options. Most makeup sponges you’ll encounter at the store are the reusable kind from brands such as Beautyblender. But “there is also the classic wedge makeup sponge, which are typically single-use sponges used by pro makeup artists,” says Spickard. “Lastly, there are flat-edge beauty sponges like the Real Techniques sponges that blend the benefits of the egg sponge with the precision of a classic wedge.” 

How to Choose a Makeup Sponge

The size and shape of a makeup sponge varies depending on what they're being used for. Larger, rounded sponges, like the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Makeup Sponge, are ideal for applying your base makeup, such as foundation. (One of our favorite liquid foundation formulas right now is the hydrating YSL Beauty All Hours Foundation.)