These Makeup Sponges Are the Trick to Flawless Foundation

Gone are the days when a makeup sponge was just a throwaway bonus item that came with setting powders or old-school pyramid-shaped pieces of foam that left streaks on the face. Modern-day makeup sponges are the unsung hero of pro artist kits for seamless foundation application.

Although I’m a self-proclaimed makeup brush fiend, it’s a quality makeup sponge that will take a beauty look to the next level of glam. Thinking about using your fingers to blend? Good luck! While our fingers are warm and help spread the foundation, they’ll leave embarrassing marks on the face. Plus, even if we wash our hands with soap and water for 20 seconds, our fingers get messy real quick. As our beauty editor, please trust me when I say that makeup sponges are 100% worth using.

The Best Makeup Sponges

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How to Shop for a Makeup Sponge

Before you add a new makeup sponge (or five) to your online shopping cart, there are a few factors to keep in mind before checking out.

Shape:

You might think the classic pointy egg-shaped makeup sponge is your only option, but think again! Depending on your face shape and how you like to do your makeup, you’ll want to choose one mindfully. If you’re primarily using the sponge for foundation, one with a larger surface area will be helpful to spread and blend. For applying concealer and makeup under eyes or in smaller crevices, though, you’ll want to have a pointed corner, a slanted edge, or a curved rim that fits your beautiful face’s structure.

Size:

For the most part, makeup sponges can be held with a few fingers, but if you're less into choosing between a point, slant, or curve of a larger sponge, mini sponges exist too for easy concealer application or cover up touchups.

Material:

While searching for makeup applicators, you'll find that most are sponges made of foam, but some are plant-based, and others are even silicone. Though all are excellent options, foam sponges are said to absorb more of your makeup and require regular cleaning to kill bacteria between uses. Silicone applicators, on the other hand, tend to be a bit easier to keep clean and don't absorb makeup — however, they are a bit less user-friendly. Plant-based options, though, are always a happy medium: easier on the environment and fun for flawless makeup.

I carefully researched each makeup sponge on our list to find out how long they last, how they feel, and how much makeup they absorb. I also read thousands of reviews to ensure these makeup sponges are of great overall value. Read on to learn more about the best makeup sponges to help you perfect your makeup game.