How to Make a Makeup Sponge Last Longer

The most important factor in extending the life of your makeup sponges is cleanliness.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cosmetic Bags
• Antibacterial Soaps
• Sponge Containers

1. Store sponges in their own small plastic container in your makeup bag.

2. Wash makeup sponges gently with antibacterial hand soap and water after each use or after several uses.

3. Allow sponges to air dry.

4. Replace sponges when the corners begin looking tattered.

Tips & Warnings

• Some cosmetics companies sell small plastic containers specifically to carry sponges.
• Sponges sold at cosmetics counters in department stores are typically overpriced. Your local drug store will sell replacement sponges in larger quantities for less money.

on 11/22/2005 Water deteriorates latex sponges. Washing them every day may help to kill off bacteria, but you're also giving your sponges a shorter lifespan. Wash once or twice then throw away. A clean sponge that falls apart will not make your face look any better.

on 11/22/2005 Take this direct from a professional makeup artist: If you use a makeup sponge to apply liquid (ESPECIALLY cream) foundation -- you need a new one every day! Even if you wash it out immediately with soap and water, you cannot remove all of the makeup. Thus, it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria -- which you then apply to your face the next time you use it. (Yuck!) You can buy great quality cosmetic sponges in bulk at beauty supply stores for pennies apiece. (If you really want to be frugal, you can use one side one day, turn it over and use the other side the next day and then throw it away.)

on 11/22/2005 Since makeup sponges are so inexpensive, I prefer to use them a few times and then use a fresh one. However, I also find that the denser the material the makeup sponge is made from, the longer they last. Also, when you wash the denser type, they hold less water, which means they hold fewer germs, which is also a protection against bacteria.

on 11/22/2005 Put a small amount of liquid foundation on your fingertips and dab over your face; then take the damp sponge to smooth in evenly.

on 11/22/2005 What I do is place the sponge under water and then squeeze as much of the water out as possible. This helps the makeup gently slide off the sponge without staining it; you also don't have to put as much on!