As if it weren't confusing enough figuring out when to use BB, CC, and DD creams, your makeup tools can be just as confounding. For instance, should you apply your foundation with a blending sponge or brush, or would your fingers suffice? According to makeup artist Abraham Sprinkle, there isn't a blanket solution. Before picking sides in the eternal beauty blender vs. brush debate, consider which product you're using, its formula, and your end goal.
"For me, it's all in the finish I'm trying to achieve," Sprinkle told us.
To find out more, we tapped Sprinkle for his best makeup application tips.
Keep reading for Sprinkle's advice on when to use a beauty blender vs. a brush.
When to Use a Beauty Blender
"If I want a seamless wash or blend, I love a sponge," Sprinkle said.
Beautyblender is perhaps the most popular makeup sponge, but it's not the only one.
"A sponge is great for sheering out creams and liquids," he added. "However, keep in mind that it can absorb a lot of product."
Think: Less is more when applying makeup with a sponge. For instance, starting with a small amount of product, like foundation, will allow you to achieve your ideal coverage by building.
For contouring, use a damp makeup sponge to mix the colors and ensure no graphic lines are left behind.
When to Use a Makeup Brush
"For saturation or precision, I use a brush," said Sprinkle.
For powder-based products in particular — like blushes, setting powders, and some highlighters — Sprinkle suggested that brushes work better with these formulas as they allow more control over just how much is deposited onto the skin. Then, you can always further blur the edges with a Beautyblender sponge over the top.
If you're applying liquid foundations, Sprinkle recommended working with synthetic brushes since they're easier to sanitize and create a smooth, even finish.
When to Use Your Fingers
Just about anything from your fingertips to your MAC 217 can work in terms of eyeshadow. Make sure you keep this mantra in mind: The denser the formula, the denser the brush.
"Loose, fluffy brushes are great for powders but can be a nightmare for liquids," he noted. "Sometimes, for cream shadows, I like to use my ring finger as the warmth of my hand helps emulsify the product and makes blending easier."
The Final Takeaway
Liquid and cream foundations can realistically be applied using your hands, but brushes and sponges can impart different effects on your complexion. As a rule of thumb, opt for a sponge when you want to achieve a flawless finish and when using liquid formulas. Alternatively, reach for a brush when you want a precise application and are working with powder or cream-based products. Ultimately, though, what tool you go with — including your fingertips — comes down to personal preference.
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.
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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.
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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...
Huda Beauty Build and Buff Foundation Brush, €31.95
Stila #33 One Step Complexion Brush, €28
GloWish Airbrush Finish Complexion Brush, €29
Huda Beauty Basic B Sponge, €16
Discover our foundation selection here.