How to Use a Foundation Sponge
If you use pressed powder or liquid foundation, you've probably used a foundation sponge. Most of the top cosmetics companies provide round sponges with their pressed-powder compacts. You can use these and other foundation sponges to create natural looks and dramatic statements with your makeup. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Wash your face and apply moisturizer. Keep in mind that a clean, hydrated face is the best canvas for applying foundation.
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Hit the local drugstore and buy a bag of inexpensive foundation sponges. Look for wedge-shaped sponges for applying liquid makeup and for blending in concealer. Choose round-shaped sponges for applying pressed powder or cream foundation.
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Select a foundation type. Keep in mind that cream foundation or heavy pressed powders are generally used for special occasions or for nighttime wear. Choose a water-based liquid foundation for lighter coverage and for combination or oily skin types. You can set your liquid foundation using a matching finishing powder and a large makeup brush.
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Use a clean foundation sponge to apply a thin layer of makeup primer across the entire surface of your face. Reduce puffiness by storing your primer in the fridge and applying it cold to your face. A primer sets foundation and prevents it from sitting on top of larger pores.
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Get your foundation sponge or wedge wet and squeeze out any excess water. This helps to prevent your sponge from absorbing all of the makeup.
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Use the widest part of the wedge or the center of the sponge and work foundation from the outer edges of the cheeks toward the nose area.
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Use a circular motion to apply foundation to the forehead and chin area. Find a light source that most accurately replicates natural light. Check the sides of your cheeks near the hairline for streaks. Blend away streaks using light pressure and short strokes.
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Clean your foundation sponge often. If the edges start to tatter or you detect an odor, it's time to replace your sponge. Skip the expensive makeup brush cleansers and use everyday soap instead. Run water over the sponge until it runs clear and leave in a dust-free location to dry.
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Tips & Warnings
Be sure to wash and moisturize your face before you apply your foundation. Makeup tends to set best on a hydrated, clean face.
Buy foundation when the major makeup companies offer free gifts with purchase. Use the free plastic bag to store foundation sponges.
Avoid latex cosmetic sponges if you've got sensitive skin.
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Comments
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PurelyCosmetics
Aug 05, 2008
There is a new type of makeup sponge called the Beauty Blender. It's non-latex, hypoallergenic, and oddly shaped - it's a hot pink egg shaped sponge! Although more expensive than your standard sponge, it lasts a minimum of 4-6 months, can be washed, is eco-friendly (they ask you to send them back your used ones for recycling), and can be used with both liquid or powders. It's egg shape makes it ergonomically designed, and rather than rubbing on your face, you stipple or "bounce" the egg to apply. It gives a flawless application every time. I've written an eHow article on how to apply makeup using the Beauty Blender. -
PurelyCosmetics
Aug 05, 2008
There is a new type of makeup sponge called the Beauty Blender. It's non-latex, hypoallergenic, and oddly shaped - it's a hot pink egg shaped sponge! Although more expensive than your standard sponge, it lasts a minimum of 4-6 months, can be washed, is eco-friendly (they ask you to send them back your used ones for recycling), and can be used with both liquid or powders. It's egg shape makes it ergonomically designed, and rather than rubbing on your face, you stipple or "bounce" the egg to apply. It gives a flawless application every time. I've written an eHow article on how to apply makeup using the Beauty Blender.
