The beautyblender makeup sponge promises to “modernize the way you apply makeup” and help you fake a “flawless complexion.” But does it deliver?
After years of alternating between a foundation brush and disposable sponges, I thought I would try something new. And while I do notice less whiskering under my eyes, and better blending of blush and shadow, this product has downsides that I just can’t overlook.
Chief amongst these complaints, daily cleansing.
I am a microphobe of the highest order, and having to wash the sponge everyday is just plain annoying. And even after the scrubbing and rinsing, I was never confident that the sponge was clean.
Secondly, I found that the product absorbs a lot of makeup. This waste of product would probably force me to replace my foundation more frequently. This is no bueno for the girl on a budget.
Speaking of cost, this product is expensive. Two sponges will set you back $26–not fiscally responsible. Even the more reasonably priced Sonia Kashuk sponge costs $9. This is a big increase in price from the $2 for a bag of 50 disposable sponges that I am currently paying.
While my makeup application was certainly improved with this product, I don’t know if the results justify the increase in price. And given that my skin is acne prone, I don’t want to use any product that might be harboring bacteria and germs inside of its nooks and crannies.
I have the Sonia Kashuk version, and I adore it. I can't see myself ever going back to one of the disposable sponges (and I don't get foundation brushes at all).
Sephora makes a daily brush cleaner that is also anti-bacterial. I just spray it on my brushes when I'm done using them, and it seems to help keep breakouts at bay:
https://sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P208011&categoryId=B70