What's the Best Way to Apply Foundation?

If you're anything like me, you've probably looked at your makeup collection and realised that you've got FAR too many tools for one job: applying your foundation.

I mean, there are a lot of options: stipple brush, kabuki brush, silicone applicator, beauty sponge, and even with your hands. However, the million-dollar question is which one will give you a long-lasting, undetectable finish? 

It does seem like every few years there's a 'next big thing' in foundation application. Does anyone else remember microfibre makeup sponges? Then after that came silicone applicators and now it's those ultra-thin foundation spatulas. I've tried them all and here's what I think!

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Pros and Cons of Makeup Sponges

Let's chat about everyone's favourite egg-shaped sponge first. These makeup sponges (including the beauty blender and its many, many dupes) revolutionised how we think about applying makeup!

The magic happens when you dampen these little sponges - they expand to create an incredibly soft, bouncy texture that seems to make foundation melt right into your skin, and I find they blend in super quickly too. It's a pretty flawless finish if I say so myself!

I also want to mention that a makeup sponge is ideal for liquid formulas or cream foundations - you won't find that it works as well for powders or mineral foundations, and may cause these formulas to clump up on your skin. 

What makes these sponges so special is their ability to create that coveted 'your skin but better' finish. The damp surface helps thin out your foundation ever so slightly, plus the patting motion that you're supposed to use avoids any streaks like you might get from a foundation brush.

Some people might mark it down as a con that sponges have a lower coverage finish compared to makeup brushes, but that's how these sponges help create a seamless look!

Another con to beauty sponges is that you need to store them correctly to prevent them from going mouldy. If you zip it up into your makeup bag while its still damp, that's a recipe for a mouldy, dirty sponge. Ick!

Realistically, you'll need to have a few of these and alternate between them to keep the free of bacteria and clean enough to use on your skin. Skip a few washes and you're basically applying yesterday's foundation mixed with whatever bacteria has been having a party in there.

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Pros and Cons of Makeup Brushes

Now, let's talk about foundation brushes - they're like the sophisticated older sister of the beauty tool family. Whether you're team dense buffing brush or team fluffy stippling brush, these tools give you incredible control over where your foundation goes. 

They're particularly brilliant if you're working with a fuller coverage foundation or if you need to be precise about your application.

The thing about brushes is that they're much more economical with product usage. Unlike our spongy friends, brushes don't absorb nearly as much foundation, meaning more of it actually ends up on your face where it belongs. They're also significantly easier to clean - a quick swish in some brush cleanser and you're good to go.

But here's the catch - there's definitely a learning curve with brushes. Brushes can create a streaky, unblended look - especially if your foundation sets faster than you can apply it! In my experience, a clean brush is also key to preventing streaks. 

It's ideal to spot clean your brush after every use, and do a deep brush shampoo every week. 

Bonus Read: How to Care For Your Beauty Tools

Applying Foundation with Your Hands

I know what you're thinking - really? But hear me out. Some of the most respected makeup artists in the industry swear by finger application, including Pat McGrath and Francois Nars, and there's actually some solid logic behind it. 

The warmth from your fingers helps blend foundation seamlessly into your skin, creating this gorgeous, natural finish that can be hard to achieve with tools.

It's also incredibly intuitive- you can feel exactly how much pressure you're using and where the product needs to go. Plus, it's free - no money spent on extra tools required! However, this method does require impeccably clean hands and might not be your best bet if you're going for full-coverage glam. 

Personally, I also find it's really easy for me to leave foundation finger prints on basically everything else - so I also rank this as the application method that leaves the most mess!

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Mixing and Matching

Here's a little secret: you don't actually have to pick just one. 

Try applying with a brush for precise coverage, then going in with a damp beauty blender to perfect the finish. Or start with your fingers for a natural base, then use a brush to build up coverage where you need it.

The beauty of makeup (pun absolutely intended) is that not every technique or method fits everyone. 

Your perfect foundation tool might change depending on the foundation formula you're using, the finish you're after, or even just how much time you have in the morning.

So, which tool wins? Well, that's entirely up to you. The best foundation tool is the one that makes you feel confident in your skin, whether that's a fancy brush, a damp sponge, or just your own two hands. The only real rule? Whatever tool you choose, keep it clean. Your skin will thank you for it!