Blending Beautifully

Greetings!

Penny-the-Product-Princess here with a new product review. If you're really into make-up like I am you probably have a beautyblender (Sephora, $19.95-$39.95).  The beautyblender is an ergonomically designed make-up sponge applicator developed for use with liquid foundations and tinted moisturizers(some reviewers also say they use it for cream foundations). It also comes with its own cleanser.

What's so great about the beautyblender?

• The blender is a non-latex, hypoallergenic sponge that is washable and re-usable.
• The blender is eco-friendly.
• The blender can last 4-6 months if kept clean and free of bacteria.

How do you use the beautyblender?

• The beautyblender kit comes with a sponge, cleanser, and a disc that shows you how to use it.
• You soak the sponge in water before each use; the sponge will expand.  You must squeeze out the excess water before you use it.
• Dip the sponge into the foundation on the back of your hand; then use a blotting technique to get the best results; this means that you dab the base of the sponge against your face until you get the desired coverage
• There are lots of videos online that show you how to use the blender as well (http://www.youtube.com/; search 'beautyblender').

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What kind of results do you get from the BeautyBlender?

• The beautyblender gives you an even,  flawless, dewy finish when used correctly.
• The blender does not leave streaks and is easy to use.
• The blender is easy to hold for blending; the pointed end is good for getting around the nose and under the eyes.
• Many use the blender's pointed end to apply cream concealer as well (since you are supposed to use a patting technique to blend around the sensitive eye area).

What are 'cons' to the beautyblender?

• It is pricey in comparison to similar sponges (but at least it lasts a few months)
• If you want a heavier coverage, it may take a little longer to layer your foundation with the blotting technique
• The blender is a sponge, and like most sponges it soaks up a lot of the product.
• The blender can be cleaned with regular cleanser but might take longer to get the make-up out.
• The blender can get stained if you accidentally use it with the wrong foundation formula.

I wish I discovered the beautyblender years ago when I bought my Dior Foundation Brush. To me the brush applies streaky and I end up blending with my fingers or a regular cosmetic sponge

most of the time. A similar sponge is offered at Target called Sonia Kashuk Blending Sponge ($9.99). I have not personally tried this sponge, and the reviews are mixed when compared to the beautyblender. Unfortunately if you use a powder foundation, the sponge will not work for that formula. But you can still apply your concealer with it.

Be blessed. Be beautiful.

Penny