Makeup Sponges
Pros:
- works especially well for those with dry skin (Using a synthetic brush in a buffing motion can cause exfoliation and make your foundation look flakey. Using a sponge in a tapping motion prevents exfoliation and is ideal for those with dry, flakey skin.)
- prevents full coverage foundations from looking cakey (Since sponges sheer out coverage, it makes it more difficult to over apply foundation. Therefore, sponges work well for those with a heavy hand.)
- allows foundation to "melt" into your skin (The method of stippling in conjunction with the moisture from the sponge allows foundation to blend into the skin seamlessly without any lines of demarcation, while leaving an airbrushed finish.)
Cons:
- suppose to be replaced every 1-3 months (Those who take good care of it have been able to make it last for about 6-8 months. I've had brushes that lasted 5+ years. Therefore, those who are on a beauty budget may not find makeup sponges to be economically sound.)
- more product gets absorbed and wasted (I find that sponges soak up more product compared to synthetic brushes.)
- time consuming (Stipping with a sponge requires more time compared to buffing with a synthetic brush. It's also best to use a foundation that doesn't dry as fast to prevent it from applying blotchy or else you'll have to work alot quicker. Also, when using a sponge, I have to apply 2 layers of the MUFE HD foundation in order to get the coverage that I need, while it takes only one layer when using a synthetic brush.)
- emphasize pores (I find that sponges can make my pores appear larger when used in a stippling motion compared to a synthetic buffing brush. To prevent this from happening, you can (1) wear a silicone-based primer (review) underneath or (2) use the sponge in a painting motion on areas where there are visible pores.
I don't find sponges to be superior or inferior to synthetic brushes. Just like everything else in life, there are always pros & cons and trade-offs. This post is meant to be informative and to explain why sponges may or may not be right for you.
