In just a few years, it has become essential in cosmetics, the make-up sponge does not lack resources. Many models compete for the star in the make-up department, and it is not always easy to find them. Our advice on how to choose it well and, above all, use it well.

There are several main types of makeup sponge available on the makeup market, to choose from depending on how you want to use it, the desired effect, and your level of dexterity.

The foam sponge

A pioneer in make-up sponges, the foam sponge is mainly used to make up the body, or for very covering stage make-up. It is therefore not very suitable for everyday makeup. Moreover, the foam sponge has the disadvantage of drinking a lot of product, which is not economical.

The silicone sponge

Presented as the hygienic alternative to foam or latex sponges, the silicone sponge washes off with soap and water and dries instantly. The second major asset, its airtight texture, means that it does not absorb any product, which is fashionable when using expensive cosmetics. It would lose between 30 and 50% less product than with foam sponges. Finally, this nifty sponge has a much longer lifespan than its foam or latex counterparts.

The latex sponge

Its texture is more dense and tight than that of foam sponges, which allows it to absorb less product than the latter. They are often prism-shaped with ridges, useful for accessing hard-to-reach areas such as the gates of the nose or the corners of the eyes. They can also be in the form of a round or oval disc. Their firm texture allows a controlled application of the foundation, which can be lighter or more covering depending on the areas of the face and the desired result. The only concern of this sponge is its material, which can be allergenic in some people.

The egg sponge

It revolutionized the makeup sponge market, the egg sponge first marketed under the Beautyblender brand.®, is very easy to use and offers a result with a perfect finish. As effective for applying foundation, as concealer or performing the famous contouring, the egg sponge is made in a very dense foam texture, anti-microbial and latex-free to avoid allergies. This ingenious texture allows a natural look by avoiding the too covering side which tends to weigh down the features.

Its clever elliptical shape has a tip for precise access to small areas, a rounded part for the middle areas of the face, and wider sides for large solid areas.

Two-in-one sponges

Some sponges offer a double material for optimal combined use.

The double round face thus offers one face in latex, and another in very soft fabrics, which allows the final result to be smoothed for a more velvety result.

The egg sponge is also available with a latex base, to mimic the effect of the fingertip and deposit the product on the skin.

The silicone sponge

The silicone sponge is mainly suitable for fluid products – foundation, BB cream or CC cream – and is very easy to use. All you have to do is apply a little product on the back of your hand, take it with the sponge, apply it by gently patting the face and stretch the product outwards.

Foam, latex and egg sponges

These three types of sponges are used in much the same way.

Unlike the silicone sponge, they must be moistened, then wrung out well, before use. Humidifying the sponge will both use less product, and also provide a more natural and velvety finish.

In addition, with this type of sponge we do not stretch the product but we tap! This is what makes it possible to obtain a velvety finish and a natural finish.

The maintenance of makeup sponges is an essential step to avoid the proliferation of bacteria, which could promote the appearance or worsening of acne or small skin problems.

Sponges, whatever their material, should be cleaned after each use with lukewarm water and mild soap. They must then be wrung out and left in the open air to be dry the next day. Once a month, the foam or latex sponges can be washed in the washing machine, in a delicate cycle.

For hygiene measures, it is recommended to renew your makeup sponges every 6 months at most.