The 8 Best Makeup Sponges, Tested by Real People

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsAdd to CartWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesFAQWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

Add to Cart

What to Know

Behind the Scenes

FAQ

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

Photo:People/ Tamara Staples

People/ Tamara Staples

If you’ve ever wondered how celebrities get picture-perfect makeup (apart from professional glam teams, of course), it’s thanks in part to a tiny but mighty beauty tool: the makeup sponge. When applying yourfavorite foundation, a few drops ofliquid bronzer, or any cream-based product, the right makeup sponge can blend the color for a natural-looking finish and smooth texture.Experts Say"I find that sponges are very beginner-friendly because they provide a quick, seamless blend with less effort. [They also] work well for both liquids and powders."—Melissa Murdick, TikTok creator and celebrity makeup artistNow, all you have to do is find the right makeup sponge for your skin. But don’t fret — we did the hard work for you. Our PEOPLE Tested team spent a day applying different types of makeup with 13 of the most popular sponges, evaluating each sponge for absorption, application, and ease of cleaning while also considering shape, texture, and the final makeup look.Of all the makeup sponges that PEOPLE Tested, these were considered the best.Our Top PicksBest Overall:SALEL’Oréal Infallible Blend Artist Foundation Blender at Amazon$8$6Jump to ReviewBest Budget:SALEL.A. Girl Beauty Sponge at Amazon$12$8Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Fenty Beauty Precision Makeup Sponge at Sephora$16Jump to ReviewBest Classic:Beautyblender Original Makeup Sponge at Amazon$20Jump to ReviewBest for Baking:Essence Makeup & Baking Sponge at Amazon$9Jump to ReviewBest for Airbrushed Finish:Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge at Amazon$16Jump to ReviewBest Latex-Free:Sonia Kashuk Latex-Free Makeup Blender Sponge at Amazon$14Jump to ReviewBest Set:Beauty Bakerie Organic Eggs Beauty Sponges at Amazon$20Jump to ReviewBest Face Primer:Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer at Amazon$38Jump to ReviewBest Foundation Brush:Charlotte Tilbury Magic Complexion Brush at Nordstrom$55Jump to Review

If you’ve ever wondered how celebrities get picture-perfect makeup (apart from professional glam teams, of course), it’s thanks in part to a tiny but mighty beauty tool: the makeup sponge. When applying yourfavorite foundation, a few drops ofliquid bronzer, or any cream-based product, the right makeup sponge can blend the color for a natural-looking finish and smooth texture.

Experts Say"I find that sponges are very beginner-friendly because they provide a quick, seamless blend with less effort. [They also] work well for both liquids and powders."—Melissa Murdick, TikTok creator and celebrity makeup artist

Experts Say

“I find that sponges are very beginner-friendly because they provide a quick, seamless blend with less effort. [They also] work well for both liquids and powders."—Melissa Murdick, TikTok creator and celebrity makeup artist

Now, all you have to do is find the right makeup sponge for your skin. But don’t fret — we did the hard work for you. Our PEOPLE Tested team spent a day applying different types of makeup with 13 of the most popular sponges, evaluating each sponge for absorption, application, and ease of cleaning while also considering shape, texture, and the final makeup look.

Of all the makeup sponges that PEOPLE Tested, these were considered the best.

Our Top PicksBest Overall:SALEL’Oréal Infallible Blend Artist Foundation Blender at Amazon$8$6Jump to ReviewBest Budget:SALEL.A. Girl Beauty Sponge at Amazon$12$8Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Fenty Beauty Precision Makeup Sponge at Sephora$16Jump to ReviewBest Classic:Beautyblender Original Makeup Sponge at Amazon$20Jump to ReviewBest for Baking:Essence Makeup & Baking Sponge at Amazon$9Jump to ReviewBest for Airbrushed Finish:Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge at Amazon$16Jump to ReviewBest Latex-Free:Sonia Kashuk Latex-Free Makeup Blender Sponge at Amazon$14Jump to ReviewBest Set:Beauty Bakerie Organic Eggs Beauty Sponges at Amazon$20Jump to ReviewBest Face Primer:Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer at Amazon$38Jump to ReviewBest Foundation Brush:Charlotte Tilbury Magic Complexion Brush at Nordstrom$55Jump to Review

Best Overall:SALEL’Oréal Infallible Blend Artist Foundation Blender at Amazon$8$6Jump to ReviewBest Budget:SALEL.A. Girl Beauty Sponge at Amazon$12$8Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Fenty Beauty Precision Makeup Sponge at Sephora$16Jump to ReviewBest Classic:Beautyblender Original Makeup Sponge at Amazon$20Jump to ReviewBest for Baking:Essence Makeup & Baking Sponge at Amazon$9Jump to ReviewBest for Airbrushed Finish:Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge at Amazon$16Jump to ReviewBest Latex-Free:Sonia Kashuk Latex-Free Makeup Blender Sponge at Amazon$14Jump to ReviewBest Set:Beauty Bakerie Organic Eggs Beauty Sponges at Amazon$20Jump to ReviewBest Face Primer:Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer at Amazon$38Jump to ReviewBest Foundation Brush:Charlotte Tilbury Magic Complexion Brush at Nordstrom$55Jump to Review

Best Overall:SALEL’Oréal Infallible Blend Artist Foundation Blender at Amazon$8$6Jump to Review

Best Overall:SALEL’Oréal Infallible Blend Artist Foundation Blender at Amazon$8$6

Best Overall:

SALE

Best Budget:SALEL.A. Girl Beauty Sponge at Amazon$12$8Jump to Review

Best Budget:SALEL.A. Girl Beauty Sponge at Amazon$12$8

Best Budget:

Best Investment:Fenty Beauty Precision Makeup Sponge at Sephora$16Jump to Review

Best Investment:Fenty Beauty Precision Makeup Sponge at Sephora$16

Best Investment:

Best Classic:Beautyblender Original Makeup Sponge at Amazon$20Jump to Review

Best Classic:Beautyblender Original Makeup Sponge at Amazon$20

Best Classic:

Best for Baking:Essence Makeup & Baking Sponge at Amazon$9Jump to Review

Best for Baking:Essence Makeup & Baking Sponge at Amazon$9

Best for Baking:

Best for Airbrushed Finish:Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge at Amazon$16Jump to Review

Best for Airbrushed Finish:Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge at Amazon$16

Best for Airbrushed Finish:

Best Latex-Free:Sonia Kashuk Latex-Free Makeup Blender Sponge at Amazon$14Jump to Review

Best Latex-Free:Sonia Kashuk Latex-Free Makeup Blender Sponge at Amazon$14

Best Latex-Free:

Best Set:Beauty Bakerie Organic Eggs Beauty Sponges at Amazon$20Jump to Review

Best Set:Beauty Bakerie Organic Eggs Beauty Sponges at Amazon$20

Best Set:

Best Face Primer:Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer at Amazon$38Jump to Review

Best Face Primer:Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer at Amazon$38

Best Face Primer:

Best Foundation Brush:Charlotte Tilbury Magic Complexion Brush at Nordstrom$55Jump to Review

Best Foundation Brush:Charlotte Tilbury Magic Complexion Brush at Nordstrom$55

Best Foundation Brush:

Best OverallL’Oréal Infallible Blend Artist Foundation BlenderPHOTO: Amazon$8$6 at AmazonStar QualitiesDoesn’t absorb too much foundationAble to blend in tight spacesEasy to rinse after applicationRed FlagsIt was hard to build up coverageIf you ask us, the L’Oreal Infallible Blend Artist Foundation Blender is essentially the Goldilocks of makeup sponges — because it’s just right for all of your needs.Made from a plushy sponge material, this blending sponge is quite soft when damp and doesn’t feel rough on the skin. It transferred most of our foundation onto our skin rather than absorbing it into the sponge. During application, its pointed dome shape allowed for blending in tight spaces like under the eyes and around the corners of the nose, while the base was great for larger areas like the cheeks, chin, and forehead.This makeup sponge only fell short when we tried to build up foundation coverage on our skin; our tester has oily skin and hyperpigmentation and was looking for good, buildable coverage. It was not as seamless as we’d hoped, which could also be attributed to the application technique or foundation used — we can’t solely blame the sponge.Overall, this is a user-friendly and affordable makeup sponge that’s soft on your skin and allows you toapply makeup evenly, without streaks or blotches. It’s a no-fuss beauty blender that does what you expect, and it’s super easy to rinse out when you’re ready to clean it.Shape:Hourglass, dome |Material:Cotton |Absorbency:Light |Good For:Liquid or cream foundationPeople / Tamara Staples

Best OverallL’Oréal Infallible Blend Artist Foundation BlenderPHOTO: Amazon$8$6 at Amazon

Best OverallL’Oréal Infallible Blend Artist Foundation Blender

Best Overall

L’Oréal Infallible Blend Artist Foundation Blender

PHOTO: Amazon

$8$6 at Amazon

Star QualitiesDoesn’t absorb too much foundationAble to blend in tight spacesEasy to rinse after applicationRed FlagsIt was hard to build up coverage

Star QualitiesDoesn’t absorb too much foundationAble to blend in tight spacesEasy to rinse after application

Doesn’t absorb too much foundation

Able to blend in tight spaces

Easy to rinse after application

Red FlagsIt was hard to build up coverage

It was hard to build up coverage

If you ask us, the L’Oreal Infallible Blend Artist Foundation Blender is essentially the Goldilocks of makeup sponges — because it’s just right for all of your needs.

Made from a plushy sponge material, this blending sponge is quite soft when damp and doesn’t feel rough on the skin. It transferred most of our foundation onto our skin rather than absorbing it into the sponge. During application, its pointed dome shape allowed for blending in tight spaces like under the eyes and around the corners of the nose, while the base was great for larger areas like the cheeks, chin, and forehead.

This makeup sponge only fell short when we tried to build up foundation coverage on our skin; our tester has oily skin and hyperpigmentation and was looking for good, buildable coverage. It was not as seamless as we’d hoped, which could also be attributed to the application technique or foundation used — we can’t solely blame the sponge.

Overall, this is a user-friendly and affordable makeup sponge that’s soft on your skin and allows you toapply makeup evenly, without streaks or blotches. It’s a no-fuss beauty blender that does what you expect, and it’s super easy to rinse out when you’re ready to clean it.

Shape:Hourglass, dome |Material:Cotton |Absorbency:Light |Good For:Liquid or cream foundation

People / Tamara Staples

Best BudgetL.A. Girl Beauty SpongePHOTO: Ulta$12$8 at Amazon$5 at Target$5 at UltaStar QualitiesDense sponge material wastes less productSoft, latex-free foam materialHas an edge for blottingRed FlagsPushed makeup around a bitThis sponge was quite dense, which allowed the foundation to blend directly onto our skin rather than disappear into the sponge. We also loved how soft the latex-free foam material felt during application.In terms of design, this sponge mimics a classic teardrop shape with a slight edge for blotting certain areas of the face — say, your cheekbones with blush. The shape aided application, with the pointed tip getting into the small areas around the nose and under the eyes. One word of caution: This sponge tends to push makeup around, so you have to be careful when blending. That said, it eventually created a smooth finish with our foundation.This makeup sponge is easy to clean, and all the residue came out with a few rinses. Though it’s not as plush as other sponges, the size, shape, and material make the L.A. Girl sponge a good option for daily use — and at a budget-friendly price.Shape:Teardrop with flat edge |Material:Latex-free foam |Absorbency:Light |Good For:Liquids, creams, or powdersPeople / Tamara Staples

Best BudgetL.A. Girl Beauty SpongePHOTO: Ulta$12$8 at Amazon$5 at Target$5 at Ulta

Best BudgetL.A. Girl Beauty Sponge

Best Budget

L.A. Girl Beauty Sponge

PHOTO: Ulta

$12$8 at Amazon$5 at Target$5 at Ulta

Star QualitiesDense sponge material wastes less productSoft, latex-free foam materialHas an edge for blottingRed FlagsPushed makeup around a bit

Star QualitiesDense sponge material wastes less productSoft, latex-free foam materialHas an edge for blotting

Dense sponge material wastes less product

Soft, latex-free foam material

Has an edge for blotting

Red FlagsPushed makeup around a bit

Pushed makeup around a bit

This sponge was quite dense, which allowed the foundation to blend directly onto our skin rather than disappear into the sponge. We also loved how soft the latex-free foam material felt during application.

In terms of design, this sponge mimics a classic teardrop shape with a slight edge for blotting certain areas of the face — say, your cheekbones with blush. The shape aided application, with the pointed tip getting into the small areas around the nose and under the eyes. One word of caution: This sponge tends to push makeup around, so you have to be careful when blending. That said, it eventually created a smooth finish with our foundation.

This makeup sponge is easy to clean, and all the residue came out with a few rinses. Though it’s not as plush as other sponges, the size, shape, and material make the L.A. Girl sponge a good option for daily use — and at a budget-friendly price.

Shape:Teardrop with flat edge |Material:Latex-free foam |Absorbency:Light |Good For:Liquids, creams, or powders

Best InvestmentFenty Beauty Precision Makeup SpongePHOTO: Sephora$16 at Sephora$16 at Ulta$16 at Kohls.comStar QualitiesShape allows for precise applicationSoft texture feels luxuriousRed FlagsNot as durable as othersFenty’s sponge remains a fan favorite among the beauty line. The Precision Makeup Sponge 100 earned a near-perfect score during our test for its unique design, lack of absorption, and precise application.This soft makeup sponge is light and airy in design, and we especially loved the flat shape and narrow edge at the end. This special design facilitates a clean and precise application, easily blending foundation across all areas of the face. Testing also showed how quickly foundation washes from this sponge (only FourFiveSeconds…get it?). Though more expensive than others on our list, it’s hard for us to find fault with this premium makeup sponge. If it’s good enough for Rihanna, it’s good enough for us.Shape:Pointed dome with angled edge |Material:Latex-free sponge |Absorbency:Light |Good For:Liquids, creams, or powdersPeople/Tamara Staples

Best InvestmentFenty Beauty Precision Makeup SpongePHOTO: Sephora$16 at Sephora$16 at Ulta$16 at Kohls.com

Best InvestmentFenty Beauty Precision Makeup Sponge

Best Investment

Fenty Beauty Precision Makeup Sponge

PHOTO: Sephora

$16 at Sephora$16 at Ulta$16 at Kohls.com

Star QualitiesShape allows for precise applicationSoft texture feels luxuriousRed FlagsNot as durable as others

Star QualitiesShape allows for precise applicationSoft texture feels luxurious

Shape allows for precise application

Soft texture feels luxurious

Red FlagsNot as durable as others

Not as durable as others

Fenty’s sponge remains a fan favorite among the beauty line. The Precision Makeup Sponge 100 earned a near-perfect score during our test for its unique design, lack of absorption, and precise application.

This soft makeup sponge is light and airy in design, and we especially loved the flat shape and narrow edge at the end. This special design facilitates a clean and precise application, easily blending foundation across all areas of the face. Testing also showed how quickly foundation washes from this sponge (only FourFiveSeconds…get it?). Though more expensive than others on our list, it’s hard for us to find fault with this premium makeup sponge. If it’s good enough for Rihanna, it’s good enough for us.

Shape:Pointed dome with angled edge |Material:Latex-free sponge |Absorbency:Light |Good For:Liquids, creams, or powders

People/Tamara Staples

Best ClassicBeautyblender Original Makeup SpongePHOTO: Sephora$20 at Amazon$20 at Sephora$20 at TargetStar QualitiesEgg shape is easy to useExperts praise itPointed tip works well under eyes and around noseRed FlagsDoesn’t clean easilyThere’s a reason there’s only one “original” — it’s the first, the classic, and the model to which all future iterations are compared. In steps the Original Beautyblender. “Beautyblender is the golden standard,” says Murdick. It offers a classic egg-shaped design with a pointed tip to delicately blend makeup under the eyes and in the crevices around the nose.The material is similar to many others on our list: Latex-free polyurethane foam. It’s soft and works well to blend foundation for a smooth finish, though we did notice it needed several layers for full coverage. It wasn’t due to the sponge absorbing too much product (it didn’t absorb much at all) but might be attributed to the specific foundation we used. We also found it somewhat tricky to clean with makeup wipes, but think it would clean easily with soap and water.Shape:Teardrop |Material:Latex-free polyurethane foam |Absorbency:Light |Good For:Creams, powders, or liquidsPeople / Tamara Staples

Best ClassicBeautyblender Original Makeup SpongePHOTO: Sephora$20 at Amazon$20 at Sephora$20 at Target

Best ClassicBeautyblender Original Makeup Sponge

Best Classic

Beautyblender Original Makeup Sponge

$20 at Amazon$20 at Sephora$20 at Target

Star QualitiesEgg shape is easy to useExperts praise itPointed tip works well under eyes and around noseRed FlagsDoesn’t clean easily

Star QualitiesEgg shape is easy to useExperts praise itPointed tip works well under eyes and around nose

Egg shape is easy to use

Experts praise it

Pointed tip works well under eyes and around nose

Red FlagsDoesn’t clean easily

Doesn’t clean easily

There’s a reason there’s only one “original” — it’s the first, the classic, and the model to which all future iterations are compared. In steps the Original Beautyblender. “Beautyblender is the golden standard,” says Murdick. It offers a classic egg-shaped design with a pointed tip to delicately blend makeup under the eyes and in the crevices around the nose.

The material is similar to many others on our list: Latex-free polyurethane foam. It’s soft and works well to blend foundation for a smooth finish, though we did notice it needed several layers for full coverage. It wasn’t due to the sponge absorbing too much product (it didn’t absorb much at all) but might be attributed to the specific foundation we used. We also found it somewhat tricky to clean with makeup wipes, but think it would clean easily with soap and water.

Shape:Teardrop |Material:Latex-free polyurethane foam |Absorbency:Light |Good For:Creams, powders, or liquids

Best for BakingEssence Makeup & Baking SpongePHOTO: Essence Cosmetics$9 at Amazon$5 at UltaView on Essencemakeup.comStar QualitiesGreat for blending foundationVersatile with different makeup productsPerformed as well as pricier toolsRed FlagsExpands a lot when dampWhen you need to slap makeup on before running out the door, you’ll want a makeup sponge that will do the job quickly and effectively. This sponge earned a perfect score on all of our tests, with little to no absorption, flawless and quick application, and easy cleanup.Made from a vegan sponge material, this beauty blender has a classic pear shape with a large round bottom, perfect for blending foundation and “baking” withsetting powder. Its angled side creates an edge for smoothing and a tip for hard-to-reach spots.The only oddity we noticed was how large the sponge grew when dampened for application. That’s not necessarily a con for everyone, but when you’re trying to reach tight corners around your eyes and nose, smaller sponges are key. Thankfully, it didn’t soak up the product and blended it well into our skin. With its budget-friendly price, we think this is a great everyday makeup sponge.Shape:Pear shape with angled edge |Material:Vegan sponge |Absorbency:Very light |Good For:Liquid or cream foundations, pressed or loose powderPeople / Tamara Staples

Best for BakingEssence Makeup & Baking SpongePHOTO: Essence Cosmetics$9 at Amazon$5 at UltaView on Essencemakeup.com

Best for BakingEssence Makeup & Baking Sponge

Best for Baking

Essence Makeup & Baking Sponge

PHOTO: Essence Cosmetics

$9 at Amazon$5 at UltaView on Essencemakeup.com

Star QualitiesGreat for blending foundationVersatile with different makeup productsPerformed as well as pricier toolsRed FlagsExpands a lot when damp

Star QualitiesGreat for blending foundationVersatile with different makeup productsPerformed as well as pricier tools

Great for blending foundation

Versatile with different makeup products

Performed as well as pricier tools

Red FlagsExpands a lot when damp

Expands a lot when damp

When you need to slap makeup on before running out the door, you’ll want a makeup sponge that will do the job quickly and effectively. This sponge earned a perfect score on all of our tests, with little to no absorption, flawless and quick application, and easy cleanup.

Made from a vegan sponge material, this beauty blender has a classic pear shape with a large round bottom, perfect for blending foundation and “baking” withsetting powder. Its angled side creates an edge for smoothing and a tip for hard-to-reach spots.

The only oddity we noticed was how large the sponge grew when dampened for application. That’s not necessarily a con for everyone, but when you’re trying to reach tight corners around your eyes and nose, smaller sponges are key. Thankfully, it didn’t soak up the product and blended it well into our skin. With its budget-friendly price, we think this is a great everyday makeup sponge.

Shape:Pear shape with angled edge |Material:Vegan sponge |Absorbency:Very light |Good For:Liquid or cream foundations, pressed or loose powder

Best for Airbrushed FinishReal Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge$16 at Amazon$6 at TargetView on Ulta

Best for Airbrushed FinishReal Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge

Best for Airbrushed Finish

Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge

$16 at Amazon$6 at TargetView on Ulta

Star QualitiesGave us an airbrush-level smooth finishUnique design works with liquid blush, concealer, and foundationLong-lasting when cleaned properlyRed FlagsLarger size makes it less precise

Star QualitiesGave us an airbrush-level smooth finishUnique design works with liquid blush, concealer, and foundationLong-lasting when cleaned properly

Gave us an airbrush-level smooth finish

Unique design works with liquid blush, concealer, and foundation

Long-lasting when cleaned properly

Red FlagsLarger size makes it less precise

Larger size makes it less precise

This makeup sponge is a popular one — it’s almost always in short supply. And its reputation exists for a reason: It created a finish so smooth that our skin almost looked airbrushed. We’ve home-tested this product for upwards of a year, and it’s definitely earned its spot on this list.

This uniquely designed sponge has a smooth edge to apply liquid blush, a pointed section for concealer, and a round side for general foundation,contouring makeup, etc. And it doesn’t absorb too much product, so you don’t have to worry about waste.

Shape:Slanted dome with flat edge |Material:Latex-free foam |Absorbency:Light |Good For:Liquids, creams, or powders

Best Latex-FreeSonia Kashuk Latex-Free Makeup Blender SpongePHOTO: Target$14 at Amazon$7 at Target$10 at WalmartStar QualitiesSuper-soft material feels great skinShape made application very easyRed FlagsCan tear easilyThis Sonia Kashuk sponge has a rounded bottom and pointed top, which allow for versatile application no matter where you’re trying to blend product. We loved the soft feel and whimsical design of the black and white marbled pattern.While this sponge blended our foundation well and created a smooth finish, it did absorb some product, and we needed to add more makeup to our skin to build up the coverage. We suggest applying your makeup directly to the sponge or on your face to avoid product loss when transferring from the back of your hand to your face.The sponge did rip when we tried to clean it with a makeup wipe — so while not a dealbreaker (because a better way to clean would be to wash with soapy water), it’s not the most durable on our list. That said, the makeup did come out of the sponge when cleaned, so if you’re gentle when washing, it should last until you’re ready to get a new one.Shape:Pointed dome-shaped |Material:Latex-free polyurethane foam |Absorbency:Medium |Good For:Liquids and creamsPeople / Tamara Staples

Best Latex-FreeSonia Kashuk Latex-Free Makeup Blender SpongePHOTO: Target$14 at Amazon$7 at Target$10 at Walmart

Best Latex-FreeSonia Kashuk Latex-Free Makeup Blender Sponge

Best Latex-Free

Sonia Kashuk Latex-Free Makeup Blender Sponge

PHOTO: Target

$14 at Amazon$7 at Target$10 at Walmart

Star QualitiesSuper-soft material feels great skinShape made application very easyRed FlagsCan tear easily

Star QualitiesSuper-soft material feels great skinShape made application very easy

Super-soft material feels great skin

Shape made application very easy

Red FlagsCan tear easily

Can tear easily

This Sonia Kashuk sponge has a rounded bottom and pointed top, which allow for versatile application no matter where you’re trying to blend product. We loved the soft feel and whimsical design of the black and white marbled pattern.

While this sponge blended our foundation well and created a smooth finish, it did absorb some product, and we needed to add more makeup to our skin to build up the coverage. We suggest applying your makeup directly to the sponge or on your face to avoid product loss when transferring from the back of your hand to your face.

The sponge did rip when we tried to clean it with a makeup wipe — so while not a dealbreaker (because a better way to clean would be to wash with soapy water), it’s not the most durable on our list. That said, the makeup did come out of the sponge when cleaned, so if you’re gentle when washing, it should last until you’re ready to get a new one.

Shape:Pointed dome-shaped |Material:Latex-free polyurethane foam |Absorbency:Medium |Good For:Liquids and creams

Best SetBeauty Bakerie Organic Eggs Beauty SpongesPHOTO: Amazon$20 at AmazonView on Beautybakerie.comStar QualitiesDifferent sponges for different productsCleaned easily with a few rinsesApplied makeup smoothlyRed FlagsGrows quite large when dampWhy have one makeup sponge when you can have six? This adorable set, designed as an egg carton, lets you designate sponges for various needs — for instance, designating one sponge for liquid products and another for powder.Though sponges are quite dense, the material felt soft on our skin. The shape mimics most makeup sponge designs but with more rounded edges. We noticed the sponge grew quite large when wet, which made it harder to tackle small areas, but also allowed for easy blending across larger areas like our cheeks.The only major con is how much makeup it absorbs. We found ourselves reapplying more makeup in several layers since, on the first application, the sponge absorbed quite a bit of product. That said, it was super easy to clean, and all of the product washed out.Shape:Egg |Material:Non-latex sponge |Absorbency:Heavy |Good For:Liquids, creams, or powders, though we recommend picking one egg for each type of productPeople / Tamara Staples

Best SetBeauty Bakerie Organic Eggs Beauty SpongesPHOTO: Amazon$20 at AmazonView on Beautybakerie.com

Best SetBeauty Bakerie Organic Eggs Beauty Sponges

Best Set

Beauty Bakerie Organic Eggs Beauty Sponges

$20 at AmazonView on Beautybakerie.com

Star QualitiesDifferent sponges for different productsCleaned easily with a few rinsesApplied makeup smoothlyRed FlagsGrows quite large when damp

Star QualitiesDifferent sponges for different productsCleaned easily with a few rinsesApplied makeup smoothly

Different sponges for different products

Cleaned easily with a few rinses

Applied makeup smoothly

Red FlagsGrows quite large when damp

Grows quite large when damp

Why have one makeup sponge when you can have six? This adorable set, designed as an egg carton, lets you designate sponges for various needs — for instance, designating one sponge for liquid products and another for powder.

Though sponges are quite dense, the material felt soft on our skin. The shape mimics most makeup sponge designs but with more rounded edges. We noticed the sponge grew quite large when wet, which made it harder to tackle small areas, but also allowed for easy blending across larger areas like our cheeks.

The only major con is how much makeup it absorbs. We found ourselves reapplying more makeup in several layers since, on the first application, the sponge absorbed quite a bit of product. That said, it was super easy to clean, and all of the product washed out.

Shape:Egg |Material:Non-latex sponge |Absorbency:Heavy |Good For:Liquids, creams, or powders, though we recommend picking one egg for each type of product

If you’ve found your next go-to makeup sponge, check out these other PEOPLE-Tested beauty products. Our team of editors and independent testers vigorously test each product to ensure only the best are selected.

Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer$38 at Amazon$38$20 at SephoraView on Milkmakeup.comCharlotte Tilbury Magic Complexion Brush$55 at NordstromView on Charlottetilbury.com$55 at Saks Fifth AvenueMAC 170 Synthetic Rounded Slant Brush$42 at NordstromView on Maccosmetics.com$42 at BloomingdalesDior Backstage Face & Body Foundation$43 at SephoraView on Dior.comView on Harrods.com

Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer$38 at Amazon$38$20 at SephoraView on Milkmakeup.com

Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer

$38 at Amazon$38$20 at SephoraView on Milkmakeup.com

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Complexion Brush$55 at NordstromView on Charlottetilbury.com$55 at Saks Fifth Avenue

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Complexion Brush

$55 at NordstromView on Charlottetilbury.com$55 at Saks Fifth Avenue

MAC 170 Synthetic Rounded Slant Brush$42 at NordstromView on Maccosmetics.com$42 at Bloomingdales

MAC 170 Synthetic Rounded Slant Brush

$42 at NordstromView on Maccosmetics.com$42 at Bloomingdales

Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation$43 at SephoraView on Dior.comView on Harrods.com

Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation

$43 at SephoraView on Dior.comView on Harrods.com

What to Know About Makeup Sponges

Shape

“Typically with sponges, even though they make a lot of novelty shapes now, you are essentially going to be offered something that either tapers to a point or has a sort of slice out of the side to create a flat edge,” says Murdick. You want a pointed tip to reach spots around the eyes and nose, and a wider round base for applying foundation to the cheeks, chin, and forehead.

“For folks who like to pat on foundation, I’d stick with the ones that taper to a point,” she adds. “The ones that have a flat side are better for folks who use more of a sweeping motion in their application.”

Material

The material can also play a factor in the effectiveness and usability of a makeup sponge. When you use a classic sponge, it’s damp, which helps blend makeup more smoothly than a dry silicone sponge. Both can be equally effective, so the “best” option really depends on your preference.

Cleanliness

Makeup sponges are fabulous tools for creating a smooth finish, but it is essential to keep them clean for the same reason you wouldn’t use a dish sponge on your face. “The only way to ensure sponge cleanliness is to clean it often — every single use if possible,” says Murdick. “When I am cleaning sponges I will always let the soap and water soak in for around ten minutes before rinsing so I know I am getting as much makeup out as possible.”

Cleanliness is a consideration here because some makeup sponges are just easier to keep clean, though “there is no guarantee of getting them 100 percent clean — make sure you swap your sponge out often,” says Murdick. If you’re someone who rarely cleans theirmakeup brushes, then you should either consider a silicone sponge or replace your beauty blender more often.

During a day of pampering, we played with an assortment of makeup products and tools to see how well each worked in action. When assessing makeup sponges, our team of testers tried out 13 sponges and looked for the following qualities:

Frequently Asked QuestionsA Beautyblender is a specific brand of reusable makeup sponges. This is a case of a proprietary eponym, like Kleenex or Band-Aid. We included theOriginal Beautyblenderon our list as our best classic pick since it has inspired many iterations of makeup sponges since its debut in 2007. Regardless of what you call it, a good makeup sponge will spread your makeup evenly, help blend it onto your skin, and won’t take too much effort to clean.You should absolutely wet your makeup sponge. While youcanuse it dry, it will not create the seamless finish makeup sponges are used for, and your makeup will more likely get pushed around your face rather than actually blended. Take it from someone who used makeup sponges dry for far too long before seeing the light: Damp is the ideal condition.To prepare your sponge, get it completely wet under running water. Then, after it has expanded, squeeze out all of the excess water. You don’t want your sponge dripping wet, but it should be damp to the touch. If it starts to dry out, and you don’t feel like heading back to a sink, you can also spritz it with a facial mist to give it a little refresh.“An easy application technique is to pick up a bit of foundation on the sponge and then pat it all over the face,” says Murdick. “The sponge easily blends as it applies, so it doesn’t take much work to get a smooth finish.“These beauty tools should be replaced every one to three months. While regular cleaning will extend the life of your sponge, it will inevitably start to hold on to bacteria. “If your sponge is starting to deteriorate in any way, definitely toss it,” says Murdick. “If you are not good about cleaning your sponge after every use, I would not keep it for that long!“However, certain materials, like silicone, do not hold on to bacteria, so they can be a safer choice for long-term use if you don’t see yourself buying a new sponge every few months.This partially depends on your skin type. If you are prone to breakouts, you should wash your blender after each use. For less sensitive skin types, you can probably get away with once a week (at a minimum). That said, cleaning beauty products off of your makeup sponge is the best way to ward off bacteria growth. Plus the more product you wash out of your makeup sponge after use, the better it will work during the next application.

Frequently Asked Questions

A Beautyblender is a specific brand of reusable makeup sponges. This is a case of a proprietary eponym, like Kleenex or Band-Aid. We included theOriginal Beautyblenderon our list as our best classic pick since it has inspired many iterations of makeup sponges since its debut in 2007. Regardless of what you call it, a good makeup sponge will spread your makeup evenly, help blend it onto your skin, and won’t take too much effort to clean.

You should absolutely wet your makeup sponge. While youcanuse it dry, it will not create the seamless finish makeup sponges are used for, and your makeup will more likely get pushed around your face rather than actually blended. Take it from someone who used makeup sponges dry for far too long before seeing the light: Damp is the ideal condition.To prepare your sponge, get it completely wet under running water. Then, after it has expanded, squeeze out all of the excess water. You don’t want your sponge dripping wet, but it should be damp to the touch. If it starts to dry out, and you don’t feel like heading back to a sink, you can also spritz it with a facial mist to give it a little refresh.“An easy application technique is to pick up a bit of foundation on the sponge and then pat it all over the face,” says Murdick. “The sponge easily blends as it applies, so it doesn’t take much work to get a smooth finish.”

You should absolutely wet your makeup sponge. While youcanuse it dry, it will not create the seamless finish makeup sponges are used for, and your makeup will more likely get pushed around your face rather than actually blended. Take it from someone who used makeup sponges dry for far too long before seeing the light: Damp is the ideal condition.

To prepare your sponge, get it completely wet under running water. Then, after it has expanded, squeeze out all of the excess water. You don’t want your sponge dripping wet, but it should be damp to the touch. If it starts to dry out, and you don’t feel like heading back to a sink, you can also spritz it with a facial mist to give it a little refresh.

“An easy application technique is to pick up a bit of foundation on the sponge and then pat it all over the face,” says Murdick. “The sponge easily blends as it applies, so it doesn’t take much work to get a smooth finish.”

These beauty tools should be replaced every one to three months. While regular cleaning will extend the life of your sponge, it will inevitably start to hold on to bacteria. “If your sponge is starting to deteriorate in any way, definitely toss it,” says Murdick. “If you are not good about cleaning your sponge after every use, I would not keep it for that long!“However, certain materials, like silicone, do not hold on to bacteria, so they can be a safer choice for long-term use if you don’t see yourself buying a new sponge every few months.

These beauty tools should be replaced every one to three months. While regular cleaning will extend the life of your sponge, it will inevitably start to hold on to bacteria. “If your sponge is starting to deteriorate in any way, definitely toss it,” says Murdick. “If you are not good about cleaning your sponge after every use, I would not keep it for that long!”

However, certain materials, like silicone, do not hold on to bacteria, so they can be a safer choice for long-term use if you don’t see yourself buying a new sponge every few months.

This partially depends on your skin type. If you are prone to breakouts, you should wash your blender after each use. For less sensitive skin types, you can probably get away with once a week (at a minimum). That said, cleaning beauty products off of your makeup sponge is the best way to ward off bacteria growth. Plus the more product you wash out of your makeup sponge after use, the better it will work during the next application.

Madison Yaugeris a senior writer for PEOPLE who’s tested hundreds of lifestyle products across all categories. With a background in news and lifestyle journalism, she has a wide network of expert sources and a penchant for accuracy. For this story, she spoke to TikTok creator and celebrity makeup artist Melissa Murdick, heavily researched the market of makeup sponges, and used insights from our lab tests to determine the best makeup sponges of 2024.

Our Expert PanelMelissa Murdickis a TikTok creator and celebrity makeup artist and has glammed up celebs like Selena Gomez and Rosalia.

Our Expert Panel

Melissa Murdickis a TikTok creator and celebrity makeup artist and has glammed up celebs like Selena Gomez and Rosalia.

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source: people.com