Sponge for make-up, washing, foundation. Konjak konnyaku, silicone beauty, sponge egg. How to use, reviews

The sponge is designed for applying makeup or removing it. Makeup sponges make it possible to evenly distribute decorative cosmetics over the skin surface. It is used for applying masking products.

Cleansing sponges help to effectively remove the layer of cosmetics, cleanse the skin and free pores. Some species also have a caring effect.

The main purpose of sponges is high-quality shading of borders, creating smooth transitions without spots and stripes. With the help of a sponge, you can touch up your makeup: remove inaccuracies, blend the product more thoroughly.

Different types of sponges create different coatings: some are denser, others lighter. Cosmetics penetrate the pores of the sponge and apply evenly if you run it over the skin surface.

What materials, what shape are makeup sponges

A sponge is a disposable or reusable porous material. Disposable are made of cotton and are used to correct makeup, after use they are disposed of.

Reusable ones are made from synthetic and natural materials:

1. It is customary to apply a compact powder with foam rubber.
2. Latex is convenient to use for applying foundation.
3. Cleansing sponges are made from cellulose with a large number of pores.
4. Konjacs are made from the fibers of a plant called Amorphophallus konjac.

For ease of use, manufacturers produce sponges in different shapes.

Each sponge has its own purpose:

1. Round and square. These are fairly large sponges that serve to apply powder. They are used to work on large areas, such as cheeks, forehead.
2. Triangular. The wide side of this device is applied to the foundation on the cheeks, chin, and with a pointed tip - on the area of ​​the wings of the nose, under the eyes. Heart-shaped applicators are used in a similar manner.
3. Sponge brushes with a sponge at the end is used to work with eyeshadows, loose powder.
4. Oval sponges suitable for applying makeup under the eyes.
5. Egg-shaped sponges drops are designed to distribute the foundation. The cheeks and chin are treated with the wide side, and hard-to-reach areas with the narrow side.
6. It is convenient to apply cosmetics under the eyes with the beveled side of the sponge.
7. Curly sponges with "waist" more comfortable to hold, the recess is designed for a correct grip.

Silicone makeup sponge. Reviews of makeup artists

Silicone sponge is a novelty of late 2016, early 2017. But he has already gained a lot of fans. It is a silicone base with a polyurethane sheath.

Him purpose - application of foundation and other creamy products, for example, blush and care creams, it is not suitable for bulk products.

The main advantage and difference from other sponges is the absence of pores, which allows you to significantly save cosmetics, since the applicator does not have an absorbent capacity.

Makeup sponges make it possible to evenly distribute decorative cosmetics over the skin surface. Cleansing sponges help to effectively remove a layer of makeup, cleanse the skin and free pores

The entire cream remains on the surface, but the quality of application does not suffer. Hence, another advantage follows - hygiene. Due to the absence of pores, there is no place for dirt and bacteria to accumulate.

Silicone sponge is durable, while its cost is an order of magnitude less than the cost of a quality sponge made from other materials. It can be purchased on Aliexpress for 50-100 rubles.

To clean the sponge, wash it with warm water and soap. Then it is blotted with a napkin and it is ready to use again. A simple and quick way of cleansing allows you to use a sponge for applying different products in one makeup.

The technique of use consists in applying a cosmetic product to the skin and distributing it with patting movements. After cleaning the sponge and blotting with a napkin, it can be stored in a plastic container.

Makeup artists and beauty bloggers note the hygiene of the sponge, the ability to evenly distribute cosmetics even when applying a dense layer. They also love the ease of cleaning the sponge, which saves a lot of time.

Of the shortcomings, only two are noted:

• protruding end edges that interfere with applying makeup;
• the tip is not thin enough, because of which it is inconvenient to use the silicone sponge for hard-to-reach places.

Sponge egg (drop) - beauty blender

It is necessary to distinguish directly between beauty blender and beauty blenders. The beauty blender is a patented product, the "pink testicle" as it is also called. It has a rounded base and a pointed, but not sharp tip. Thanks to the smoothed shape, the airbrush effect is obtained.

All kinds of beauty blenders are made in his image and likeness, but not all of them are close to the original in quality. The price for different types of original products ranges from 1,500 to 2,500 rubles.

Types of original sponge:

1. Original. The same "pink egg". This is a medium-sized sponge that spreads the cosmetic in a medium-thick layer.
2. Pro. A more professional version of the sponge. It is made in black, denser in structure, and the coating also turns out to be denser. It will be difficult for a layman to adapt to it.
3. Pure. The sponge is white and the softest of all. They are comfortable with applying fluids and emulsions. It distributes the product over the skin in the thinnest possible layer.
4. Micro Mimi. Sponges are green, small. They are suitable for treating uneven skin areas with foundation or for applying eyeshadow.
5. Bodyblender. Like the Pro, it is black, but larger. Designed for the body.

The manufacturer also produced limited editions of purple and red sponges, but, apart from color, they are no different from pink. The original beauty blender absorbs water well. Then it increases significantly in size.

The more the sponge is saturated with moisture, the less weighty the coating is. It is also easy to look after him. All you need to do is rinse it off with soap and air until it dries completely. Beauty blender is latex free, so the risk of allergies is minimized.

How to apply powder with a sponge

The powder can also be applied with a brush, but the sponge allows you to achieve a denser coverage, which is important for skin with visible defects. A regular sponge, like a beauty blender, is also used dry and wet. They can be used as a creamy or dry compact powder.

Apply the powder correctly with a hammering motion, without stretching the skin... A wet sponge gives a thicker layer.

Sponge for blending foundation - how to choose

General tips for choosing a sponge:

1. You can't save. Cheap sponges can be visually the same as expensive ones. But in their qualities they differ very significantly. For example, inexpensive sponge drops do not always swell when in contact with water, which means they do not become softer and more elastic. Too hard material does not allow for uniform application. The coating is spread in stripes and spots.
2. You should choose sponges of famous brands, not nameless producers.
3. The sponge must be folded or squeezed before purchasing. A good sponge will quickly regain its shape, there will be no creases or cracks.

If the question arises about the choice of the form of execution, then best proven sponge egg... As for the uniform application, in this respect it is flawless. It is easy for them to shade the borders, apply tone to the corners of the eyes. It is also suitable for sculpting.

The experts also recommend triangular sponges. They can remove peeling mascara, circle the lips around the contour with foundation, treat the area around the eyes.

How to use a foundation sponge - how to apply cream

The foundation should be applied to a prepared, cleansed face.

Sponge cream application:

1. First, a layer of primer is applied to the face.
2. Then a few peas of the foundation (3-4 pieces) are squeezed onto the skin (you can apply the product first on the sponge).
3. Take a clean sponge and blend the product with gentle circular movements so that it does not get on the hair.
4. If the base is thick, make-up artists advise to moisturize the sponge. This helps to apply a thinner layer of the product and better blend the borders.

It is recommended to first squeeze a more liquid base onto your hand in a small amount, and then, dipping the sponge into the product, apply makeup with hammering movements.

How to use the egg sponge correctly

If used sponge egg, you must first saturate it with water... To do this, they bring it under a stream of water - it will take as much moisture as needed.

Using a wet sponge is beneficial for several reasons:

1. It becomes softer.
2. The foundation spreads over the skin in a thinner layer.
3. The sponge itself practically does not absorb.

Then it is blotted with a napkin (you cannot wring out the product with twisting movements), and the sponge is ready for direct makeup application.

A foundation is applied to a damp sponge, which is then spread over the skin. A drier sponge will give a tighter coverage. There are no special recommendations regarding the method of application. The direction, according to the massage lines, does not need to be followed. The tone is applied as it is convenient.

When working with an egg sponge, you must act carefully and do not expose it to long nails. The sponge is easily damaged by them, especially when wet.

How to care for a sponge

If the sponge is used for foundation, it must be cleaned after each use.... Sponges designed for dry cosmetics and caring creams can be washed a little less often, once a week.

For cleaning, use a small amount of liquid soap, shampoo, gel. It is not recommended to use toilet and laundry soap.

You can store sponges for foundation in a special case, paper bag. Only when placing it in a closed place, you must ensure that it is completely dry, otherwise mold will appear. Powder applicators are stored in a powder box.

Sponges are not allowed:

• dry on a battery;
• dry in the sun;
• twist;
• wipe off dirt with nails or sharp objects;
• put away in sealed boxes and bags without preliminary drying.

Experts advise buying a new sponge every month. Sponges that have an unpleasant odor or mold on the surface must be replaced.

How to wash foundation sponges - how to remove cream

At home, in order to save money for washing sponges, you can use liquid cosmetic cleansers - these are shampoo, shower gel, foam for washing, liquid soap and solid baby soap.

Sequencing:

1. Add the selected product to a bowl of warm water and mix.
2. For disinfection, you can add a few drops of tea tree essential oil to the water - it has disinfecting properties.
3. Then the sponge should be dipped in water, squeezed with your palm several times under water.
4. Then, having already pulled it out of the water, rub it lightly with your fingertips.
5. Dip again in soapy water. Repeat actions until complete cleansing.
6. When the sponge looks clean, rinse it under running water by squeezing and unclenching your palm so that all the soap is washed out of the sponge.
7. When the foam stops forming, squeeze the sponge without twisting it and leave it to dry in a well-ventilated area at room temperature.

For the original beauty blender it is recommended to use special cleaners, although this is not necessary:

1. Blendercleanser. Available in two flavors: soy-based gel and bar soap. This product does not contain aggressive ingredients and does not foam very much. The product must be applied to a damp sponge, lather and rinse with water.
2. Solid Cleanser. Wax-based hard soap. Use in the same way.

A new sponge, dyed in bright colors, even from a renowned company, can release a coloring pigment for the first time when cleaning.

Since most cosmetics have a greasy base, stubborn stains can be removed with a base vegetable oil: almond, jojoba, olive.

The sponge must be dried for at least 6 hours at room temperature... The beauty blender is dried on the included stand.

What can replace the foundation sponge

Not the worst replacement for a sponge for foundation - your own fingers:

1. The fingers are sensitive, so they allow you to more accurately apply the base.
2. Emulsions and fluids are warmed up by body temperature, which contributes to their better fluidity, which means a thinner application.

You should not apply foundation with your fingers to girls with oily skin, as fingers also secrete fat, which is transferred to the skin of the face.

A synthetic bristle brush is suitable for foundations. With some experience, it turns out to shade the cream well.

It is important to choose the type of brush according to the density of the cream:

1. Putty knife. Brush with evenly cut bristles. Shades dense and creamy textures well.
2. Curved brush. Has a narrow, straight tip. Suitable for liquid foundation.
3. With beveled edge. Helps to apply a dense coating in spots.
4. In the form of a toothbrush. Applies any texture equally well.
5. Sponge brush at the end. Used as a sponge, only the handle creates additional convenience.
6. With a pointed end. Distributes liquid textures evenly.

How to make a DIY makeup sponge

If you don't have a sponge at hand, and you don't want to use your fingers, you can make a sponge with your own hands.

Even before the advent of silicone sponges, beauty bloggers showed how to use silicone bra pads to apply makeup. In their opinion, they cope with the assigned task no worse than the special version.

No less original version - condom.

To prepare it for off-label use, you need:

• wash off the grease from it;
• dry;
• put a sponge inside and use as a normal applicator.

As a last resort, a regular soft kitchen sponge with fine pores will do.

Washing sponge

Unlike makeup sponges, cleansing products have larger pores, which make the cleanser foam better.

Having tried to use special sponges for washing, women note that:

• the skin is cleared much better;
• there is a scrub effect - the sponge removes dead cells, polishes scaly areas;
• the complexion becomes healthier.

Types of sponges for washing by material:

1. Cellulosic. They cleanse the skin well, while being inexpensive, within 100 rubles. Long lasting. It is not recommended to use them for sensitive skin as they are not soft.
2. Latex. They have a soft surface, gently cleanse the skin.
3. Made from natural materials. The advantage is in the content of useful plant components.

The main purpose of soft sponges is to remove makeup, hard sponges - scrubbing.

The sea sponge is suitable for daily use, since the base is soft. Its effect is easily tolerated by sensitive dry skin, it is not a contraindication and a tendency to allergic reactions.

You can use liquid cosmetic cleansers to wash sponges - these are shampoo, shower gel, facial wash, liquid soap, and solid baby soap.

The loofah sponge is more rigid. Not suitable for dry skin, but it perfectly removes a dense layer of cosmetics.

Konjak (konnyaku) sponge - what is it, how to use

Konjak sponge is made from the fibers of the roots of the Konnyaku plant. This plant contains a substance such as glucomannan, which helps to gently remove the stratum corneum.

In addition, it contributes to:

• faster healing of inflammations: acne, acne, irritation (a konjak sponge with the addition of red clay is especially good in this regard);
• elimination of oily sheen;
• deep cleansing of the skin;
• opening of pores, skin breathing;
• exfoliation of dead skin particles;
• smoothing mimic wrinkles;
• leveling the PH level of the skin.

The sponge lasts 3-4 months with proper care.

In addition to sponges for konnyaku with red clay, sponges with other useful components are produced:

1. With green tea extract. It has a beneficial effect on small vessels, toning them up, protects from the harmful effects of sunlight. Provides a feeling of freshness. Suitable for dry combination skin.
2. With bamboo charcoal. Designed for oily skin prone to acne. Gently and deeply cleanses the skin, while helping to narrow pores and reduce inflammation.
3. With lavender. It has healing and anti-aging properties. Evens out the skin.

How to use a sponge for washing

The correct method for removing makeup with a sponge:

1. The product must be wetted, then it will acquire the necessary elasticity.
2. A small amount of makeup remover is applied to the moistened sponge.
3. You should wrinkle the sponge in your hands to create a persistent foam.
4. Then, in a circular motion, without undue pressure, lather the face with a sponge,
5. After 1-2 minutes, the sponge is rinsed with running water and, periodically washing off the foam from it, remove the soap residue from the face.
6. After that, the face must be rinsed with clean water.

Cleansed skin can be scrubbed with a sponge. For this, a wet sponge is massaged along the massage lines. After performing the procedures, the face should be blotted with a towel or napkin and applied with a moisturizing cream, and the sponge should be rinsed with running water and left to dry completely.

Washing sponge for oily skin - which one to choose

Not all sponges are suitable for oily skin.

Some of the best are:

1. Loofah sponges. They are quite tough, promote deep cleansing and remove well not only cosmetics, but also sebum. It is sufficient to use it once a week to keep the skin in good condition.
2. Konjak sponge - helps to fight inflammation inherent in oily skin, remove oily sheen.
3. Konnyaku sponges with bamboo charcoal extract, green tea, clay. These ingredients soothe inflamed skin, normalize the sebaceous glands, leave the skin matte and clear clogged pores.

List of the best

It is necessary to review the most popular sponges and highlight their main advantages and disadvantages.

Italian natural sponge Nature with cotton sponge

This sponge is made of flax and cotton fibers that are rolled into flakes. It produces a soft and rich lather.

After using the sponge, the skin becomes softer, more hydrated, blackheads disappear... The surface of the face is leveled. The color becomes even and healthy. The sponge has a moderate peeling effect.

Clarette Konjak Makeup Sponge

Women note such properties of the sponge as hypoallergenic and 100% natural. is he acts on the skin gently, deeply moisturizing, scrubbing and massaging... After using the sponge, the skin looks smooth, shines, fine wrinkles are tightened.

The cost of the sponge is 300 rubles.

Sponge Real Techniques

This is an analogue of beautyblender, which, according to the comments of many women, is in no way inferior in quality. It has the same properties as the original. The sponge differs from the "pink egg" in shape, one edge is cut diagonally.

It is convenient for them to treat any part of the face, including the area under the eyes, dimples on the chin and the corners of the eyes. It washes well from cosmetics, at the same time it costs several times cheaper than its predecessor - 600 rubles for a pack of two.

Makeup sponges H&M

Despite the fact that this sponge is made in China, it is of good quality. According to reviews, it is similar in its characteristics to the Real Technicues sponge. As it should be for beautyblender analogues, it increases upon contact with water and becomes much softer and more elastic.

They shade the tonal foundation well: it does not roll, does not stray into stripes... It costs 300 rubles.

Makeup sponge Letual

This orange product has received conflicting reviews, ranging from enthusiastic to completely negative. According to positive reviews, the sponge is credited with all the positive properties of the original beauty blender.

A radically opposite opinion from those who did not like the sponge from Letual:

• hard;
• it is inconvenient to apply tone in hard-to-reach places, since the tip is not pointed enough;
• does not shade the cream well enough - the boundaries of application are visible;
• creates a mask effect;
• absorbs a significant amount of foundation;
• not worth the money.

Its cost is 400 rubles.

Valori Blender Sponge

The cost of this sponge is 300 rubles. Of the special positive properties of the customer, they note the ability to thinly distribute the foundation, the minimum consumption of the foundation, and a good shading effect. The sponge must be well rinsed with running water, since it is deformed due to the foam remaining inside.

Bamboo Charcoal Konnyaku Sponge by Erborian

This sponge is black and resembles an oatmeal cookie. A short thread is provided, for which it is convenient to hang the sponge for drying. In the dried state, the sponge is hard and small, but after moistening it becomes soft, elastic and increases in size.

Well polishes the skin and gives a massage effect... Price - 500 rubles.

Multifunctional face sponge Manly Pro

Made in China, but produced by a Russian company. Suitable for applying foundations, highlighters, creams... When the foundation is applied, an even, thin finish is obtained.

Experts recommend not to save on sponges, but to use high-quality branded products.

It is convenient for them to apply makeup on skin with enlarged pores, as it prevents the product from falling into the depressions, but does not emphasize them.

The cost is about 500 rubles.

Konnyaku sponge DE.CO

Like any quality konjac sponge has exfoliating properties, gives good lather... Available in three variations: white, black and green. Price - 230 rubles.

Kylie Silicone Makeup Sponge

On Aliexpress, a set of three sponges of different shapes costs between 100-150 rubles.

The sponge is hygienic, does not absorb the cream, uses it sparingly and distributes it evenly on the surface of the skin, easy to clean. Since he does not have pointed ends, it is difficult for them to apply the cream in hard-to-reach places, they have to use other sponges.

Sponge Holika Holika Gudetama Egg

Despite the fact that the sponge is a Korean company, and their cosmetic products are popular, the sponge has collected negative reviews from many women.

They point out that the sponge is inconvenient to use, it is too hard, does not distribute the cream well, absorbs a large amount of fundsbut, shades not well enough and is difficult to wash.

If you want your makeup to be even, neat, weightless, you should buy a sponge. Cleansing the face with it is more efficient. Experts recommend not to save on sponges, but to use high-quality branded products.

Regular sponge and beauty blender:

How to properly wash the sponge: