Real talk: Using your fingers is not going to give you the long-lasting makeup finish you’re after. Learning how to apply foundation with a sponge can actually take your beat to the next level. And when we say sponge, we’re not talking about the flimsy sponges you might find in a makeup compact. A well structured, thick makeup sponge or a powder puff—those are the true gamechangers.
“What I particularly like about sponges is that they let me work with very thin layers, soften transitions between areas with more and less coverage, and gently lift excess product without disturbing the rest of the makeup,” says Christian Briceno, a celebrity makeup artist based in New York City. It’s this buildup of light layers that gives you a long-lasting finish that won’t fade or crack by the end of the day. Read on to learn more about how exactly to apply foundation with a sponge. Spoiler alert: It might change the way you do your makeup forever.
What is a makeup sponge?
In what may come as a surprise to no one, a makeup sponge is a sponge used to apply makeup (gasp!). “A makeup sponge is one of those simple tools that can completely transform the way foundation looks on the skin,” says Tim Quinn, a celebrity makeup artist in New York City. He says it helps blend and soften makeup for a more natural, seamless finish. Word to the wise: A sponge will give you a more natural finish, rather than a full-coverage one, which might end up looking cakey over time. “I’ve always believed the most beautiful foundation is the foundation you barely notice,” he says, and a sponge can help you get there.
Is it better to apply foundation with a wet or dry sponge?
A damp makeup sponge is the way to go when using it with foundation. “Not soaking wet, just slightly damp. I like to wet it, squeeze out the excess water, and then give it another squeeze in a clean towel,” says Quinn. The artists we spoke with all said to avoid a dry sponge at all costs, as it might make makeup look patchy or streaky. “A dry sponge can be useful for more concentrated coverage,” Quinn says, but it won’t give you a soft, filtered finish the way a damp one can.
Not sure how to go about actually using the squishy tool? We got you: Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply foundation with a sponge.
Step 1: Put foundation on the back of your hand.
To start, Quinn recommends placing a few drops of foundation on the back of your hand. “This allows you to control exactly how much product you’re using rather than applying it directly to the face,” he says. As far as formula goes, you can’t go wrong with a longwearing pick that features good-for-your-skin ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to hydrate and gently soothe redness and discoloration. We recommend opting for a liquid formula as this will pair best with a sponge (i.e., stay away from sticks).
