Makeup sponges aren’t a new invention, and they’ve been incorporated in various makeup routines for decades. In addition, sponges are a simple way to apply base products like powders, foundations, concealers, and cream products.
However, a beauty blender has completely changed how we apply our makeup. A beauty blender is different from a regular makeup sponge. Typical makeup sponges are made from latex, and they are disposable or thrown out after one use.
A beauty blender is designed to absorb water, blend liquid and cream products seamlessly, and you can reuse them. Beauty blenders are more expensive than latex makeup sponges, but they have instantly become a staple in any makeup routine.
For some people, beauty blenders have replaced brushes altogether. What makes a beauty blender unique is that you should use it damp. So, before your makeup application, you’ll want to wet the sponge under water to activate the blender.
So, how do you dry a beauty blender? One of the most effective ways to dry a beauty blender is to let it air-dry. However, there are other methods you can use to dry a beauty blender if you’re on the go or pressed for time.
We’ll talk about all that and more below, so stick with us to learn the best secrets for maintaining a beauty blender!
What Is A Beauty Blender?
A beauty blender is a makeup sponge with a modern twist.
Gone are the days when you use a latex sponge to throw it out afterward. Instead, it’s a versatile sponge that can help apply numerous beauty products and will become a staple in your makeup bag.
Beauty blenders come in all shapes and sizes, but what makes them unique is the texture of the sponge and its classic egg shape. The narrow end of the beauty blender is ideal for blending around your eyes, while the rest can blend the face.
If you’re new to the wonderful world of beauty blenders, we’ve found an awesome tutorial from Marianna Hewitt on YouTube explaining everything. Take a look!
Do You Need To Use A Damp Beauty Blender?
The main difference between regular makeup sponges and beauty blenders is that the blender needs to be used wet.
You’ll notice you get a small dry beauty blender, but once you rinse it underwater, it will expand in size and have a more flexible texture. As mentioned earlier, the beauty blender is designed to absorb water rather than your makeup products.
So, using a damp beauty blender will allow you to get even, flawless coverage from your base products without unnecessarily removing the product.
How To Dry Your Beauty Blender
So, if you need to use a beauty blender wet, you’ll also need it to dry. To keep your makeup sponge hygienic, you’ll want to clean it frequently and eliminate all the moisture from the blender.
When it’s dry, you’ll see it shrink back to its original size.
If you don’t dry your beauty blender thoroughly, it can grow bacteria, mold, and mildew. This can lead to infections, your skin breaking out, or even contaminating other beauty products. So, how can you dry a beauty blender properly?
Use The Correct Cleanser
First, you’ll want to wash, clean, or disinfect your beauty blender. This step will help remove leftover makeup so your blender can dry entirely. If you skip this step, you’ll notice that when your blender dries, it will harden and feel sturdy or powdery.
One of the best ways to wash your beauty blender is using a specialty soap formulated for beauty blenders. Remember, these blenders are not average makeup sponges and require extra care if you want them to last in perfect condition.
Rinse Well
Now it’s time to rinse the soap from your beauty blender. Just like how you want to avoid leftover makeup sitting in the sponge, you’ll want to do the same with the soap. So, squeeze and rinse your blender until the water runs clear, and suds disappear.
Rinsing your blender thoroughly will ensure there isn’t any product or moisture leftover in the sponge. It will help prolong your sponge’s life span because leftover products won’t alter their flexible texture.
Use A Towel To Remove Excess Moisture
One of the best ways to dry a beauty blender is with a towel.
However, whether it’s a regular towel or paper towel, you will need one to wring out excess moisture. The main goal in properly drying a beauty blender is eliminating as much moisture as possible.
Beauty blenders are pricier than regular makeup sponges, so you don’t want bacteria growing in your blender. Using a towel will help absorb all the excess water from the sponge. The towel will come in handy for the next and final step.
Let It Air-Dry In An Open Space
The most effective method for the actual drying process is simply leaving your sponge to air dry. However, avoid leaving it to dry in the bathroom because a bathroom can still be humid. Instead, leave the blender in a cool, dry, open space.
Once you find the perfect spot, you can place your beauty blender on the towel and let it sit. To speed up the drying process, you can rotate your sponge and even let it sit near a window. Both methods will help your beauty blender dry evenly.
Once it’s dry, it will shrink back to its original size, and then it’s clean and ready for your next makeup application.
Other Ways To Dry A Beauty Blender
What if you don’t have time to dry your beauty blender? Whether you’re constantly on the go or a professional makeup artist, you may not always have the time to dry your sponge.
Thankfully, you can keep paper towels on hand to wring out moisture, have a blow dryer or fan handy, and more.
Use A Blow Dryer
You can speed up the drying process with a blow dryer. While it may not be the most effective, it can come in handy if you’re in a pinch. Also, you’ll want to use your blow dryer on a very low or cool heat setting to avoid damaging the sponge.
Desk Fan
Another method is allowing your beauty blender to sit near a desk fan. Desk fans are small enough to keep air circulating without damaging your sponge. You can rotate your beauty blender frequently so it can dry thoroughly.
Sunlight
Lastly, you can leave your beauty blender to catch some rays if you find a sunny spot somewhere. However, use this method sparingly because the sun can potentially alter the color, texture, or structure if not cared for properly.
However, it will eliminate moisture quicker.
What To Avoid When Maintaining A Beauty Blender
How can you ensure that your beauty blender will last for as long as possible? Beauty blenders can be an expense repurchase, so let’s find out how you can maintain your blender.
Not Allowing Them To Dry Fully
If you never let your beauty blender dry completely, you could be ruining your sponge. The longer your blender stays wet or moist, the better chance bacteria, mold, or mildew will grow.
This can be especially bad if you have leftover makeup on your sponge.
Not Cleaning Regularly
Which leads us to the next point; not cleaning your beauty blender frequently. A beauty blender should be cleaned after every use, primarily if you use them on clients.
However, residual makeup in your sponge can hinder your next makeup application, and you won’t achieve a beautiful finish. It can also lead to breakouts or skin irritation.
Applying Pressure On The Sponge And Face
A beauty blender is designed to be gently dabbed on the skin. To get a flawless application, you’ll want to lightly bounce, dab, or pat the sponge. This will help you achieve an evenly blended base.
However, applying unnecessary pressure or dragging the sponge while applying makeup won’t do any good for your face or the blender. Your beauty blender is flexible when wet, but it can also tear apart if you drag it forcefully.
You’ll also pull your skin unnecessarily, which won’t feel nice and can even lead to various signs of aging. So, remember to bounce the sponge for a blended complexion gently.
When To Replace A Beauty Blender
A sponge can pick up bacteria, or its effectiveness diminishes over time. Therefore, you’ll want to replace your beauty blenders frequently so you can avoid contaminating your skin and cosmetics with bacteria.
A good rule of thumb is to switch your blenders every 3-6 months or every seasonal weather change. How well you care, clean, and dry your sponge will also determine its longevity.
The Takeaway
Overall, the best way to dry your beauty blender involves a few steps. First, clean your blender with a specialty soap and rinse. Then, wring out extra moisture with a towel and allow it to air dry in a cool, open space.
However, if you find yourself pressed for time, you can use a blow dryer, desk fan, or even the sun to speed up the drying time. It’s crucial to remember these alternative methods shouldn’t replace the air-dry method altogether.
Lastly, you can maintain your blender by cleaning it frequently, drying it thoroughly, and avoiding pressure during makeup. Replace your sponge every 3-6 months or every season.
Do you think a beauty blender is an essential tool to apply makeup? Which method are you trying?
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