The 4 Best Makeup Sponges, Tested and Reviewed - InStyle

In the realm of beauty tools, makeup sponges have truly transformed our approach to flawless complexion. From blending foundation to setting powder, these sponges have become essential items in any makeup kit. According to recent reviews and testing conducted by beauty experts, the top four sponges on the market were evaluated based on criteria such as ease of use, product absorption, and cleaning convenience. We conducted extensive trials on 13 renowned sponges, focusing on how effective they were in applying and blending various makeup products.

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Best Overall

Fenty Beauty Precision Makeup Sponge

PHOTO: Sephora

$16 at Ulta

$16 at Sephora

$16 at Kohls.com

What We Love: The unique shape makes applying makeup all over the face easier and smoother than ever.

What We Don't Love: The porous design seems to soak in more product than other firmer sponges.

Beloved by our testers, the Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Precision Makeup Sponge is a flat-sided teardrop sponge versatile for various applications, including foundation, cream blush, and under-eye concealer. The latex-free sponge is designed to be a "triple threat" for liquid, cream, and powder applications.

During testing, we adored how light and airy it felt, simplifying the blending process. Unlike many conventional makeup sponges that come in rounded or wedge shapes, this three-sided sponge features a large round side for fast coverage, a smaller flat side for detailed areas (like contouring), and a tiny tip designed to address under-eye makeup application. "I love the flat shape and narrow edge," one tester describes. "It simplifies makeup application significantly."

Material: Latex-free sponge | Shape: 3-sided teardrop | Foundation Type: Liquid, cream, or powder | Size: Smaller than an egg

• InStyle / Tamara Staples

Best Value

Essence Makeup & Baking Sponge

PHOTO: Ulta

$13 at Amazon

View on Essencemakeup.com

View on Caretobeauty.com

What We Love: This sponge is affordable and performs beautifully.

What We Don't Love: This is a firmer, denser sponge compared to others.

In the realm of budget-friendly options, the Essence Makeup & Baking Sponge stands out as the best value. "Its dome shape with an angled side applies foundation excellently, without absorbing excess product," our tester states. For merely $6, this sponge delivers remarkable performance.

This pale pink sponge features a classic design, starting with a wide base that narrows to a pointed tip. "The wide bottom made applying foundation on larger sections of my face quick and efficient," our tester noted. It’s worth mentioning that the sponge expands significantly when damp, which enhances its bouncing texture during application. "It's fantastic for daily use,” says one happy user.

Material: Dense foam | Shape: Teardrop | Foundation Type: Liquid, cream, or powder | Size: Smaller than an egg

• InStyle / Tamara Staples

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Best for Foundation

L'Oréal Infallible Blend Artist Foundation Blender

PHOTO: Amazon

$8 at Amazon

View on Ibspot.com

View on Kroger.com

What We Love: The size and shape make this blender very user-friendly.

What We Don't Love: It applies makeup evenly but building up coverage can be challenging.

This hourglass-shaped hot pink sponge looks almost like a cinched beauty blender. Made of plush foam, the sponge is lightweight and suitable for applying various products. Although effective with liquid and cream makeup, the tapered tip works wonders even for setting powder. "It feels like the Goldilocks of beauty blenders," one tester describes.

Unlike traditional beauty blenders, this sponge can be used dry. Our tester enjoyed utilizing it in multiple settings. "It has a slight rough texture when dry but is gentle once damp,” she shared, emphasizing comfort even despite texture changes.

Material: Plush foam | Shape: Hourglass teardrop | Foundation Type: Liquid and Cream | Size: Smaller than an egg

• InStyle / Tamara Staples

Best for Setting

Beauty Bakerie Organic Eggs Beauty Sponges

PHOTO: Amazon

$16 at Amazon

$18 at Ulta

$20 at Beautybakerie.com

What We Love: The size covers a larger surface area and feels luxuriously soft on the skin.

What We Don't Love: While the value is great, it would be even better if single sponges were available.

This set of six makeup sponges from Beauty Bakerie is another great value. With a design reminiscent of traditional beauty blenders, these sponges are incredibly budget-friendly, providing multiple units for less than the cost of a single beautyblender. "They're slightly squarer on one side and get sizable when damp, allowing rapid coverage of larger areas,” a tester pointed out. The smaller side is perfect for applying makeup around the eyes and nose.

Most importantly, it delivers excellent results. "The foundation applies flawlessly and evenly with this sponge," shared a tester. "Due to their size, this makes for quick and easy application, but they do seem to soak in more product than some other brands."

Material: Latex-free sponge | Shape: Teardrop/Egg | Foundation Type: Liquid, cream, or powder | Size: Smaller than an egg (when dry)

• InStyle / Tamara Staples

I Tried Every Makeup Sponge So You Don't Have To

Every now and again, something revolutionary emerges in the beauty industry that changes our entire makeup routine. The Beautyblender was one of those game-changers. Since its introduction, it has become iconic for its ability to flawlessly apply foundation, eliminating the need for multiple face brushes. In recent years, we've seen an influx of sponges showcasing various designs and textures, ranging from budget buys to high-end products. After thorough research, including countless YouTube reviews, I realized how many choices are available. A simple search at Ulta reveals nearly 150 different sponges waiting to be explored. Loyal to my Beautyblender, I thought it was time to venture beyond my comfort zone. I dipped, dabbed, and tested a variety of sponges to curate a list of the top contenders worthy of your investment.

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