No, the ones you’re holding in your hand now aren’t it.
We hate to be the bearer of bad news, but those constantly-forgot-about sponges you’ve had tucked away for so long are most likely harboring bacteria.
Most people use a makeup sponge to dab a little foundation or concealer on any errant blemishes. No worries, those low-grade sponges are plenty absorbent for that. But when you rely on one every day there’s a good chance you’re spreading bacteria that causes acne and pimples, turning you into the pro version of a makeup disaster.
It’s not just skin-deep though, it’s also the chemicals in your makeup that are causing the damage. Most makeup is never meant to be washed, which leaves it lurking in every little pore in your sponge waiting for the perfect moment to reappear.
Name | Category | Product |
---|---|---|
Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Beauty Sponge Makeup Blender | Best Overall | ![]() |
5 PCS Makeup Sponges Blender | Budget Pick | ![]() |
BEAUTYBLENDER ORIGINAL PINK Makeup Sponge | Upgrade Pick | ![]() |
1. Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Beauty Sponge Makeup Blender
Pros:
- Cute design
- Great value
- Skin-friendly
- Flexible
Cons:
- Not easy to replace the covers for the makeup sponges
- Not the best for applying a whole face of makeup on its own
The Real Techniques 3-Piece Complexion Sponge Collection includes 3 makeup sponges: the Miracle Complexion Sponge, the Miracle Mini Sponge, and the Base Blending Sponge.
The reviews for this product have been overwhelmingly positive, with many saying that they love the design and how it works to apply makeup.
The texture of this sponge is deeply porous, so it is able to absorb plenty of makeup for flawless application. It is easy to clean — with just a little soap and water — and can be used with all different kinds of makeup.
2. BEAKEY Makeup Sponge
Pros:
- Great quality
- Most affordable
- Not heavy
- Comes in many colors
- Very versatile
- Latex-free
Cons:
- No instructions
- May be too soft for some
What makes the BeaKey beauty sponge different from other brands is that it comes with a cover. This can be convenient for purposes of storage. The material used for the sponge, latex, is highly unique and is non-allergenic for those who have sensitive skin.
The texture of this sponge is soft and flexible, yet it’s thick enough for you to work with. It’s easy to expand and can hold a lot of liquid.
The sponge is designed with a large surface area. This is excellent in delivering an even application that’s natural looking. It is used for applying a variety of products, from foundation, to cream, to powder foundation and even to BB cream.
3. 5 Pcs Makeup sponges Set Blender Beauty Cosmetics Tool Flawless Facial Powder Puff Foundation Sponges Professional Make Up Applicator Latex-Free Suit
Pros:
- Good price
- Good quality
- Lightweight
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Not as big as expected
- Easy to tear
- Some users report that it bleeds
If you are looking for the best makeup sponges at a low price, then this should be your first pick. You can use these sponges to do your makeup before you start the day. It’s easily blended with almost anything and leaves your skin flawless. You can also use this for liquid foundation, powder, cream or even cleaning your face. It’s very soft and has a wonderful texture to use.
4. BEAKEY 3+1 Pcs Makeup Sponges
Gone are the days of creating flawless-looking skin with the help of makeup brushes only. Nowadays, you can beautifully apply foundation, concealer, blush, and other products directly onto your skin with the help of a beauty blender.
This BEAKEY makeup sponge is a perfect way to get started with the application of makeup. It’s made of high-quality material, which provides a smooth and beautiful application of foundation on your face. The durable long-lasting sponge can be used for a long period of time without a problem.
The makeup sponge is available in three colors: Black, White and Pink. It can be used for makeup both by professional makeup artists and those who are just beginning to apply makeup. Small size of this sponge makes it easy to use it anywhere.
5. 9Pcs Makeup Sponge Set
Makeup sponges are essential for applying makeup properly and in certain parts. They are an essential part of any makeup kit, just like brushes. They make blending and applying make easy and elegant.
A good makeup sponge has a nice fit, it is soft and easy to clean.
Your search for the best makeup sponges has ended.
6. Thirsty Lemon Makeup Sponge by Ally Things Beauty
Pros:
- Perfect density for liquid foundation
- Great value for money
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Now that you’re equipped with all the information for selecting the perfect makeup sponge, we suggest you add the Yellow Makeup Sponge by Ally Things to your cart and make your way to the checkout. You’ll be glad to know that this sponge is budget friendly yet manages to meet your makeup application needs with ease.
This yellow sponge is just as soft as a kid’s bath toy and softer than any other makeup sponge in the market today. Since it is made out of latex, it will not fall apart during washing and also will give you that sponge-y feeling every time you dab on your makeup.
7. Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge + Case
Pros:
- Great for blending
- Cute case
- The packaging is so pretty, it’s a perfect gift
If you need a great travel sized makeup sponge, the Real Techniques Makeup Sponge Set is a great product to consider.
The pack comes with the best-selling Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge, a plastic container to put it in, and a mini brushcleanser set to keep the sponge in tip-top shape.
We particularly like the way the sponge is designed to fit the lid of its plastic container, which has a little finger pull to help you remove the sponge and also prevents it from drying out. The sponge is great for makeup touch ups as well as blending in foundations to a professional level.
8. Aesthetica Cosmetics Beauty Sponge Blender
COSRX Origin Zero Cleansing Balm is the ultimate multi-tasker for your acne-prone skin. It’s a cleanser, makeup remover, and moisturizer all in one easy to use product.
As a cleanser, the Origin Zero works to dissolve all of your heavy makeup and sunblock, then rinse away with water, leaving your skin extremely clean.
Beyond using it as a cleanser, it can also be used as a makeup remover. By applying a dime-sized amount of Origin Zero to dry skin, you can easily remove your makeup with little-to-no effort. The Origin Zero won’t dry out your skin, instead your skin will be left soft, smooth, and supple. Lastly, you can apply the Origin Zero after your facial cleansing to prevent and treat dryness.
9. Artist's Choice Makeup Sponge Mini Applicator Wedges
Pros:
- Non-abrasive
- Translucent
- Perfect for most kinds of makeup
- Can be used wet or dry
- Do not soak up too much product so they can be used several times
- Soft, comfortable, and hypoallergenic
- Does not shed
Cons:
- Not good with liquids or powders
- Can be expensive
These little sponges are awesome! They soak up just enough product to cover a small area at a time, allow you to blend with a very soft touch, and are very durable and last for quite a while.
I prefer these sponges because they have a pointed edge to make details, lines, and edges a breeze. DETAILS!!!
I use these little sponges to apply concealer under my eyes, for concealer around my nose and mouth, around and under my eyebrows, on blemishes, and even to set foundation. Its handy pointed side works great for applying shadow to the lash line too, but I prefer using my finger to pack shadow in that area; it’s easier.
10. BEAKEY Makeup Sponge
BEAKEY is a makeup sponge that many use on a day to day basis, but it should not be confused with the more expensive brand names. Although it looks similar in size and shape, it is actually in a league of its own, working astonishingly well for its price!
11. Shaui&Rulyn 6 Pcs Premium Makeup Sponge Beauty Blender Sponge Makeup Blender,Foundation Blending Sponge
Pros:
- Variety of colors
- Easy to clean
- Durable design
- Reusable
- Easy to store
- Great for beginners
- Huge variety of colors available
- Smooth, precise application
- Lightweight
- Soft and flexible
Cons:
- Some users complain these are not as soft as other sponges
- Can be tricky to get all the foundation out of the material, especially if you use loose powder or mineral foundation
12. FantaSea Latex Free Foam Wedges
Pros:
- Chemical Free
- Assessories>Cosmetics, Makeup Aids
Japanese beauty sponges are famous for their light-to-the-touch sensation and their ability to soak-up large amounts of makeup products. It has a rounded, tapered shape that is ideal for applying foundation, blush, and powders.
FantaSea’s 100% latex-free makeup wedges are top among other similar beauty sponges available in the market, thanks to the following features:
· These beauty sponges are free from harmful chemicals and are manufactured to the highest quality standards.
13. EcoTools Perfecting Blender Duo
Pros:
- 100% vegan
- Environmentally friendly
- Has had success as the top makeup sponge on Younique and Mary Kay
- Affordable
- Provides an airbrushed look
- Fits in your budget
- Great for people with acne
- Ergonomic design
- Great reviews ¨C thousands of reviews online
Cons:
- Not recommended for daily use ¨C strictly for makeup application
- Can be a little hard to clean
- Recommend washing daily
- Can leave lint and blotchiness on the face if cleaned incorrectly
The EcoTools Perfecting Blender Duo is an amazing set of two beauty sponges that is often compared to the makeup sponges of Sephora, Younique, and Mary Kay.
Beauty sponges are a great way to airbrush your skin if you suffer from acne and want a smooth texture. Beauty sponges are also great for layering of makeup. They help you put on less makeup so your skin breathes, but then you can just set the foundation with a powder and then finish with a light layer of makeup.
14. InnoGear Makeup Sponge
Pros:
- Natural looking finish
- Great for blending large areas of the face
- Can also use for concealer
- Easily cleaned
- Very low price point
The InnoGear 10-piece makeup blending sponge set is great for anyone who would like quality makeup application tools without breaking the bank.
It also features a large silicone stippling surface, as well as a smaller, round sponge for precise, detailed makeup application.
Among the most commonly held complaints for sponge makeup applicators is that they get stained. The InnoGear makeup sponges, however, use the same type of ECO technology as their makeup brushes and skincare products to resist microbial growth. A plus is that this technology means they can be used on sensitive skin.
15. BEAKEY 5 Pcs Makeup Sponge Set Blender Beauty Foundation Blending Sponge
Pros:
- Professional Grade
- Multi-colored
- Multi-sized
- Cost Effective
- Multi-use
- Blends evenly
The BEAKEY 5 Pcs Makeup Sponge Set is an excellent small sponge set which has a great level of quality for its cheap price point. The quality of these makeup sponges is incredibly impressive for the price.
When it comes to the multi-purpose of these sponges, they can be used for many different things such as applying your foundation, liquid, cream, and powder products flawlessly.
The biggest thing that I loved about these sponges is the multi-sized feature. It’s great to complete one set which has various shapes and sizes, for a cheaper price.
16. BAIMEI 4Pcs Makeup Sponge Blender Set
Pros:
- Made from high-quality material
- Variety of shapes
- Non-irritating
- Affordable
- Variety of colors
- Different textures
- Comes with brush cleaner
Cons:
- Lightweight
- Varieties of shapes
- Very soft
Sponge Blender Make Up Tools.
17. YEOTWIN Makeup Sponge Set Latext-free Beauty Sponge Makeup Blender Foundation Sponge Applicator Sponges
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Come in a variety of colors
- Come in a sturdy container
- Don’t take up a lot of space
- Last a long time
- Cheap
- Doesn’t absorb much product
- Can be used for a range of products from cream foundations to highlighters
- Very durable
The YEOTWIN Makeup Sponge Set is by far one of the best makeup sponges on the market. They made them with high quality makeup sponges, 100% Latex free, skin friendly, FDA approved. They also come in a beautiful blue color, so you don’t have to worry about leaving them in the open and making your bathroom dirty. It’s very convenient because they come with their own container to keep them in.
The YEOTWIN sponge set is very easy to use and store. Simply squish them together like a little castle and put them back in their container. They’re made with a very sturdy material and are probably the most affordable makeup sponges you can find. The YEOTWIN Makeup Sponge Set is amazing and everything from the material to the price is perfect.
18. EmaxDesign Makeup Sponges
Pros:
- Great Price
- Many compared to other sponges
Cons:
- Sponge is small
- May not last long
EmaxDesign makeup sponges, 6 Pieces Makeup Blender Sponge, Foundation Blending Blush Concealer Eye Face Powder Cream Beauty Sponge Set with Pouch are great makeup sponges and they work well with liquid, cream, powder and any makeup with a lightweight. It is a very durable makeup sponge that is easy to use and easy to clean. It is highly recommended for beginner makeup users and professional makeup artists.
19. BEAUTYBLENDER ORIGINAL PINK Makeup Sponge
Pros:
- 100% pure vegan
- Improved infusion process ensures quality
- Designed with a rounded back that mimics the shape of the face
- Doesn’t damage your makeup
- Has an even application
20. Oxeely 5pcs Beauty Makeup Sponges Original Blenders set
Pros:
- Can be washed after each use
- Available in various sizes and shapes
- Affordable
Cons:
- Performance related to sponges that were made using additives
- Can crumble when pressed to hard
The oxeely blender set is a best seller in most of the makeup store and this is a plus that this is the best that the oxeely company made.
The oxeely sponge set is available in different sizes to suit your needs. The gel material that is used on these sponges is soft and easy to blend for a smooth and well – blended finish.
The oxeely blender set is latex-free which makes them safe for you. The oxeely blender set is also non-allergenic and free from any poisons or any other chemicals. It is a must use for a makeup artist. You may use these oxeely sponges to blend any liquid, cream or powder makeup.
21. 5 Pcs Materasu Original Black non-latex Makeup Sponge Set Blender Beauty Foundation Blending Sponge Foundation Blending Sponge Latex-Free Flawless
Pros:
- Affordable
- Travel-friendly with bags
- Excellent foundation blending capabilities
- Super soft texture
- Durable
- Natural
- Easy to clean
- Safe
- Good quality sponge blender
- Made from non-latex (besides the case)
Cons:
- They have slightly smaller in size than other make up sponge brands.
- The materials may appear cheap to some
- The case may break easily
At first glance, these don’t look like the greatest makeup sponges but they work pretty well. Their flat bottom makes it easy to get heavy product off of your face and neck, especially around your shirt collar. They are very soft and gentle on the face and the sponges are super easy to clean.
22. Makeup Sponge
(Green)
The multi-piece make up sponge set is very similar to the flocked version. The main differences are that they are made from natural fibers and they come in a wider variety of colors which is perfect for makeup enthusiasts who like variety.
When it comes to cleaning your sponge, you can either use mild soap with water, or you can simply throw it in the microwave for a couple of minutes on high.
23. Miss Gorgeous Makeup Sponge Blender Beauty Foundation Blending Sponge
Pros:
- 4 sponge sizes
- Cheap
Submitted by:admin
This brand of makeup sponges have the quality of more expensive brands. You get value for your dollar. If you are trying to find the best sponges for makeup foundation and the overall look of your face I would recommend the Miss Gorgeous sponge. It blends makeup beautifully and can also apply it to larger areas. This brand of makeup sponges also are the best makeup sponges for applying makeup to the face for women and men.
24. wet n wild Makeup Sponge
Pros:
- Very similar to leading sponges
- Affordable
- Multi-functional
- 100% latex free
Cons:
- Not for use with liquid products
- Not good if you have sensitive skin
Sponges have been around since Ancient Egypt. In makeup, sponges have been used for foundation since the late 18th century. Nowadays, sponges are often preferred over brushes for blending.
Today, there are two main kinds of makeup sponges: natural sponges like the classic Beauty Blender and synthetics. The wet n wild makeup sponge is a synthetic sponge.
The beauty blender is a popular and effective makeup tool but the wet n wild makeup sponge is a fantastic alternative to the beauty blender. These sponges are frequently a fraction of the price, and perform equally as well.
25. 5 PCS Makeup Sponges Blender
Pros:
- 4 sizes allow for great versatility
- Great texture
- Can be cleaned easily
(Black/Green/Red/Brown/Pink/White)
We love these makeup sponges because they come in 5 different colors and different sizes, giving you great versatility and adding more variety to your makeup application routine.
These makeup sponges have a very nice texture that almost feels like a cross between a sponge and a towel. This is a hard texture to achieve, so we’re very satisfied with the way the sponges feel.
26. 【3-pack]Bellixe Beauty Makeup Sponge Blender,No-Latex Soft Cosmetic sponge
Pros:
- Works as a dip primer
- Easily cleaned
- Multi-purpose
- Great for beginners
- Anti-bacterial coating
Replace Brush/Foundation Sponges.
Key Features:
- Affordable
- Multi-purpose
27. L'Oreal Paris Makeup Infallible Blend Artist Makeup Blender Sponge
Pros:
- Affordable
- Works well with creams and liquids
- Perfect for an every day makeup look
- Can be used for blending concealer, liquid foundation, or liquid highlighters
- Does not absorb product and can be washed multiple times
Cons:
- Can break down if washed too roughly
- Hard to control when applying liquid foundation and requires more artistry
- Might take some getting used to before it provides smooth application
- If you prefer using a brush, this is not for you and may not give a natural finish
If you’re in the market for affordable makeup sponges, the L’Oreal Paris Infallible Blend Artist Makeup Blender Sponge is where it’s at! This makeup sponge is designed to create a smooth and even skin finish, whether you’re using liquid or powder makeup.
The L’Oreal sponge is made from pure, soft polymers meaning that it won’t absorb your makeup nor get stiff when it’s wet. You can use it with both liquid and powder products.
Gone are the days of cutting up your beauty blender to fit your contours! This sponge is the best round makeup sponge on a budget.
28. KOOBA 2pcs Round Makeup Sponges
Pros:
- Soft texture
- Reusable
- Perfect for sensitive skin
- Perfect for all skin types
- Affordable
Cons:
- Not as big as some other brands
- Seemed smaller than in the pictures
29. Blend My Face Microfiber Makeup Blenders
30. 48 Pieces Makeup Sponge Blender
Foundation, Blush Powder Bronzer With Makeup Sponges Applicators, 10 Blender Sponges per pack, High Quality Mesh Makeup Sponge.
Like other makeup applicators, a makeup sponge has a rounded shape and a flat side that can be used to smudge the edges of your makeup. In this set, there are 10 sponges in each pack and all the sponges are made of latex free nano fiber material. What’s more, they are able to absorb excess products to prevent the wastage. The sponges will never absorb your skin oils and bacteria, thereby reducing the risk of making your skin breakout.
31. Real Techniques Cruelty Free Miracle Body Complexion Sponge
Pros:
- Convenient, safe, easy to use
- Perfect for applying foundation and body makeup
- Gives a flawless application with minimal product
- Adjusts to different skin types
- Not made from real animal products
- Multipurpose applicator
- Available in 1-piece or 2-piece set
With Self-Standing Base, Reliable Quality.
If you’re looking to get the most out of a makeup sponge, the Real Techniques Miracle Sponge is a great option.
Unfortunately, some makeup sponges are made from real animal products. The Miracle Sponge, however, is completely vegan. In fact, it’s safe for everyone because it contains no latex, dyes, or chemicals.
32. uFancii Beauty
Pros:
- Variety of colors
- Great for makeup blending
- Unique design allows for easy hold and use
- Reversible sponges
- Doesn’t absorb makeup
- Holds air securely when removed from the container.
The uFancii Beauty – Pro Makeup Foundation Blending Sponges – 6Pcs Set is a revolutionary product of its kind because they provide an alternative to the common makeup brushes.
This pick is the whole set of 6 sponges, and each sponge has its very specific use. The 6 sponge types include:
- Angled foundation sponge
- Flat foundation sponge
- Large round beauty sponge
- Small round beauty sponge
- Small flat beauty sponge
33. HOPEMATE Makeup Sponge
The HOPE Technology makeup sponge is flat, a little conical, and great for blending. It has hundreds of non-abrasive, flexible foam pores that quickly suck up a large amount of liquid makeup. You can use it to blend cream and liquid foundation for an almost airbrushed effect.
Unlike other sponges that absorb product like a sponge, HOPE Technology sponges don’t absorb product like a sponge. This means that you can use less product per application by buffing in the makeup with your sponge instead of wiping off the excess product. The sponge is also washable, so you can use one sponge for multiple applications.
The only downside is that it’s not the strongest sponge on the market, so extreme force wouldn’t be advisable while pushing the sponge into the product. However, you would need extreme force to use it to apply hard or compacted powders.
34. O'vinna
Pros:
- Incredibly soft and gentle
- Hours or hours of makeup application
- Affordable, great value for your money
- Versatile
- Requires minimal cleaning
Cons:
- Can sometimes irritate the skin
- Can start to lose its shape after prolonged use
There are tons of makeup sponges out there and they’re starting to look more and more like a plastic spy medium. As far as quality goes, the O’vinna delivers.
Compared to other makeup sponges, this one is highly versatile as well as affordable.
Its affordable price is because the O’vinna can be used not only for makeup, but also for cleaning windows and mirrors, washing cars, and so on.
35. 6Pcs Makeup Sponge Blender Set
Pros:
- Acid free and dermatology tested
- Comes in a set of 6 for convenience
- Soft and completely flexible
- Can be used for everything from applying foundation to contouring
- Lasting, reusable, and washable
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which color Beauty Blender is the best?
If you plan on getting the pink or lavender sponges, keep in mind they’re organic but not vegan. This means that they’re made using materials from animal carcasses, which is more ecologically advantageous than using synthetic materials, but not vegan. This is why only the pink and lavender Beauty Blenders are considered organic.
The reason organic products aren’t always vegan is because animal by-products are often involved in fertilizing and feeding the plant matter used to make the sponges.
Beauty Blender does make the black Blender which is completely vegan.
Which shape of beauty blender is best?
There are several beauty blender sizes and shapes available. If you’re just starting out with foundation or other makeup such as concealer, I’d suggest getting the round, pink Beauty Blender.
As you gain more confidence, you’ll probably be looking for a smaller shape that makes it easier to conceal smaller areas. For this task, I suggest the smaller black Beauty Blender Mini.
Do you wet the beauty blender every time?
I do this every time because I feel this helps with blending. You can also add some foundation to the beauty blender for a flawless airbrush look and use less foundation.
Do makeup sponges make a difference?
Since you will be using sponges with your makeup, it is worth noting that you will want to use authentic cosmetics sponges. Makeup sponges sold in bulk tend to be cheaper than the name brand and are just as good; they have the same purpose, but the name brand offers you, as the consumer, a better appreciation for the product.
Conclusion
A makeup sponge is actually a cosmetic applicator, and a popular one at that. There are actually three broad categories of cosmetic applicators, being tapered brushes, flat brushes, and sponges. Sponges are commonly used in the application of foundations, powders, and water-based and creamy products.
Our Recommendation
Name | Category | Product |
---|---|---|
Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Beauty Sponge Makeup Blender | Best Overall | ![]() |
5 PCS Makeup Sponges Blender | Budget Pick | ![]() |
BEAUTYBLENDER ORIGINAL PINK Makeup Sponge | Upgrade Pick | ![]() |