How to Use a Makeup Sponge (Beauty Blender) and Clean It
Why you dampen the sponge first, how to tap in foundation and concealer, when to use the pointed tip and the wide side, and how to clean and store it.
A makeup sponge is one of the easiest tools for foundation that looks like your own skin. The secret is three words: dampen, squeeze, tap.
Dampen it first
Hold the sponge under water until it swells a little, then squeeze it well so it's only damp, not wet. A damp sponge doesn't soak up all your foundation and gives a softer, more natural finish.
Tap, don't wipe
Dot a little foundation on your face, then tap with the sponge in quick, light bounces from the centre of the face outwards. Wiping moves the product and leaves streaks; tapping melts it into the skin.
Which part for which area?
- The wide side: cheeks, forehead and chin.
- The pointed tip: under the eyes, around the nose and the corners of the face.
- A flat side, if it has one: pressing powder in.
With concealer, powder and highlighter
- Concealer: small dots under the eyes, then tap in with the pointed tip.
- Loose powder: press it on with the sponge under the eyes for stronger setting.
- Liquid highlighter: tap it onto the cheekbones for a glow that looks like it comes from within.
Cleaning and storage
- Wash it after every use with water and a little soap, squeezing until the water runs clear.
- Let it air-dry, not in a closed case while wet.
- Replace it when it tears or no longer comes clean, usually about every three months.
Makeup sponge questions we hear a lot
Can I use the sponge dry?
For powder, yes. For foundation and concealer it works better damp, for a smoother finish with less product.
Brush or sponge?
A brush gives more coverage, a sponge a more natural finish. You can apply with a brush and do the final blend with the sponge.
From Ahla
The teardrop-shaped AHLA Beauty Blender Sponge blends foundation, concealer and cream makeup evenly and comes in a clear case, in four colours. Pair it with AHLA Hydrating Foundation, the Hydrating Concealer, the Loose Powder and the Liquid Highlighter.
