The 9 Best Makeup Sponges of 2024, Tried and Tested

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Things to Consider Before Buying a Makeup Sponge

Shape

Are you tired of struggling with your makeup application? Look no further! The secret to flawlessly blending your foundation lies in choosing the right makeup sponge. And when it comes to shape, you need a sponge that does it all. According to beauty expert Melissa Murdick, pointed tips are perfect for reaching those tricky spots around your eyes and nose, while a wider round base is essential for applying foundation to your cheeks, chin, and forehead. So, whether you prefer a patting or sweeping motion, choosing the right shape is crucial for that airbrushed finish.

Material

The material of the makeup sponge can make a big difference in its effectiveness and usability. Silicone sponges, like our favorite, work wonders with liquid makeup such as cream foundation or CC cream. They’re incredibly easy to clean, durable, and last longer than traditional sponges. On the other hand, classic damp sponges offer a more seamless blend, especially when working with dry silicone sponges. Ultimately, the “best” option depends on your personal preference.

Cleanliness

We all want that flawless finish, but it’s essential to maintain cleanliness when using makeup sponges. Melissa Murdick advises cleaning your sponge after every single use to ensure its longevity and hygiene. Soak your sponge in soapy water for about 10 minutes before rinsing to remove as much makeup as possible. While some sponges are easier to clean than others, it’s crucial to swap them out regularly for optimal cleanliness. If you’re not a fan of cleaning brushes, consider a silicone sponge or replace your beauty blender more frequently.

How We Tested Makeup Sponges

At our beauty lab, we take pampering very seriously. We put an array of makeup products and tools to the test to see which ones perform the best. Our team of testers evaluated each makeup sponge based on the following qualities:

• Absorption: We assessed the absorption by applying foundation to the back of our hands, dabbing the sponge, and stamping it on a white piece of paper. A good makeup sponge should be dense and less absorbent, allowing more foundation to transfer onto the paper.

• Application: After testing absorption, we applied a full face of foundation using the sponges. We considered how the sponges felt, how their shape aided application, and the final look achieved. We also layered multiple products to determine if they could achieve medium to full coverage. We paid extra attention to how easily the sponges blended foundation into the skin and picked up and applied powder.

• Ease of Cleaning: We all love applying makeup, but cleaning our tools can be a hassle. That’s why we assessed each sponge’s ease of cleaning. We washed them with soap and warm water and analyzed how clean they appeared afterward. We looked for signs of stuck-on makeup or any tears in the sponge.

Take Our Word For It

When it comes to beauty recommendations, you can trust us. Madison Yauger, our Senior Commerce Writer, has tested hundreds of lifestyle products across various categories. With a background in news and lifestyle journalism, she has a wide network of expert sources and a dedication to accuracy. For this article, she spoke with TikTok creator and celebrity makeup artist Melissa Murdick, extensively researched the makeup sponge market, and used insights from our rigorous lab tests to determine the best makeup sponges of 2024.

What Is People Tested?

At People, we created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. Our unique methodology involves testing products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers. We evaluate their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products, providing you with the right choices for your needs.

But it doesn’t end there. We regularly re-review categories that have been awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval because what’s best today may not be the best tomorrow. And here’s the best part: our recommendations cannot be bought. Companies must earn our seal of approval fair and square.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides trustworthy recommendations every day, for every purchase. Looking for more product recommendations? Check out all of our PEOPLE Tested content.