Which makeup applicator should you be using?
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My word have we come a long way from when the only way to apply makeup was with our fingers.
Every week it seems there’s a new makeup application tool out there. Never fear though, as I’m about to break down which applicator does what so you can make the best decision about what you should be using.
One thing to note, however, is regardless of your application technique, makeup will always go on better and ultimately look better if you look after your skin. That means always removing makeup, cleansing, moisturising and wearing sunscreen.
Makeup brushes
- When applying a liquid foundation, always go with a synthetic brush. They absorb less product, meaning less wastage. It also means less mess.
- You can apply the foundation directly onto the brush or squeeze a bit on the back of your hand.
- Starting from the nose, brush outwards for even coverage, then brush downwards to blend it in. Use the tip of the brush to get into those harder to reach spots like the side of the nose and inner corners of the eyes.
- You need to clean your makeup brush every couple of weeks to prevent bacteria and product build ups.
Fingers
Using your fingers to apply foundation is the ultimate mess maker but also the most convenient.
- Rule number 1 – make sure your hands are clean because bacteria causes breakouts.
- The warmth of your hands helps foundation blend and provides good, even coverage.
- It’s best to use your fingers only when applying a cream-based foundation, not a powder based one.
- For concealer, always use your ring finger to apply it because it’s the most delicate of all the fingers so ideal for the under eye area that’s very sensitive and needs to be approached with caution.
- To warm it up, for better application, rub concealer between your ring finger and thumb, dab and gently press it in.
- Using your fingers, you control how you build up the amount of foundation you use for the look you’re going for.
Wedge sponges
- The original triangle sponge is old school as they’re disposable.
- They’re ideal for someone in a rush or those that can never be bothered to clean a brush or sponge.
- They don’t absorb a lot of product
- They won’t always get into every spot to give a flawless look however you can also wet it to get a more even coverage.
Beauty blender
If the triangle sponge is old school, the beauty blender is new age.
- A Beauty Blender is a latex free elliptical shape sponge that you wet, squeeze out the excess water and then press across the face to blend your foundation and concealer.
- It can also blend your primer and moisturiser.
- A makeup artist recently told me that a beauty blender is for blending not applying. I mean, the name suggests that but I have been known to use it contrary to its actual function.
- Its shape means it can get into those harder to reach spots like the side of the nose and inner eye, giving a natural, flawless look.
- It’s also great for blending when contouring.
- Again, you must keep it clean and it’ll last for a while. There are plenty of dupes out there as well, so you don’t have to spend big on the original.
Silicone sponge
Created by Molly Cosmetics, this is the most recent innovation I’ve come across.
- It’s called SiliSponge and some calling it the jelly sponge. It’s made of silicone and is non-porous meaning it won’t soak up and waste your foundation.
- Apply liquid foundation in circular motions then tap the sponge on the skin to blend it. It’s flexible and is easy to clean – just use soap and water.
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