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Foundation Brush, Sponge, Hands... Which Should You Use?

Posted by Amy Lawrenson · January 26, 2022

When it comes to foundation application, there are a few different ways to blend product onto your skin. Do you tend to use a foundation brush, reach for a sponge or do you rely on your hands? We wanted to find out once and for all what's the best way to apply base, so we put the question to our resident makeup artist Sofia Iliadi. Foolproof foundation application, this way...

What are the pros and cons of using a foundation brush?

Foundation brushes come in all different shapes and sizes but a flat-top, Kabuki-style brush is ideal for full-coverage. With a fluffy brush, however, you can apply with circular motions for an airbrushed finish that has a slightly more natural finish.

The pro of using a foundation brush is that you get more professional results. You can also use the same foundation brush for your cream bronzer or blusher, the residual foundation on the brush helps to bring everything together so it is seamlessly blended.

The con, however, is that depending on the brush and foundation it can go a little stripy so you really need to focus on blending. It's important to clean your brushes once a week, as dirty brushes can lead to a streaky finish, too.

This is how to find your perfect foundation shade.

How about a makeup sponge?

A makeup sponge gives the most skin-like finish and pushes the product into the complexion, the foundation doesn't sit on top so it appears more seamless and natural. You can really beautifully build-up and blend the product from sheer to full-coverage, but you have to use a clean sponge! Sponges aren't as hygienic as brushes, so you have to keep on top of your cleaning.

Sponges really only work with lightweight liquid formulas. Also, they suck up a lot of product which means you're wasting foundation. However, if you apply too much makeup and it looks cakey you can use a sponge to remove some of the excess, which is handy.

The 3 foundation tricks the pros always use.

Okay, but do we need tools - could we just use our hands?

If you like a really lightweight coverage, use your hands because the warmth of your fingertips will enable you to blend the product into the skin.

Your hands don't cost anything and besides sanitising them beforehand you don't have to clean them on a weekly basis as you do with brushes and sponges.

I personally could never apply my makeup the way I like it with my hands, you get a much more professional-looking finish with brushes.

So there you have it! Whatever finish you prefer, check out our full range of makeup tools here and shop our favourite foundation brushes and sponge below...