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How to clean your makeup sponge

How to clean your makeup sponge
Holly James
Beauty Writer3 years ago
View Holly James's profile

If not washed regularly, Makeup sponges can become a host to dirt and acne-causing bacteria, that may end up doing more damage than good to your complexion. Take care of your skin by regularly cleansing your makeup sponges, just as you would your brushes, to rid them of build up and ensure a more hygienic and smoother makeup application. Not sure how to clean your sponges? There are a few options to choose from. Read on to learn the step by step guide for each to choose the cleansing method that's right for you.

How to clean your makeup sponge using cleanser

One of the most obvious ways to wash your Makeup sponge is with soap or a makeup sponge cleanser such as the ISOCLEAN Makeup Brush Cleaner with Spray Top that can be gentler on the sponge. An oil based cleanser or balm such as the Clinique Take the Day off Balm is also a good option for cleansing a makeup brush as the oil penetrates deeper into the sponge, picking up more makeup. Follow this easy step by step guide to leave your makeup sponge looking brand new:

Step 1: Rinse your sponge under warm water until it is completely soaked and has expanded slightly.

Step 2: Apply your chosen soap or cleanser onto your makeup sponge and massage it in. This may take some time until you feel as though the soap has fully lifted away all of the excess makeup and dirt.

Step 3: Rinse out the soap and makeup under warm water, squeezing it to get everything out of the middle, until your sponge looks clean and free from any patches. If this isn't the case, repeat step 2 until your sponge is fully clear.

Step 4: Allow your sponge to dry fully before using again.

How to clean your makeup sponge using a cleansing mat

Designed for brush cleaning but also super effective in washing makeup sponges, a cleansing mat can be a great way to make your cleaning experience quicker and easier. Using a mat such as the Real Techniques Brush Cleansing Palette follow the below steps.

Step 1: Rinse your sponge under warm water until it is completely soaked and has expanded slightly.

Step 2: Apply your chosen soap or cleanser to your sponge, massaging it in slightly so that it absorbs.

Step 3: Roll your sponge across your cleansing mat, squeezing it against the mat to draw our all build up and impurities.

Step 4: Rinse out the excess soap and makeup under warm water until your sponge looks clean and clear.

Step 5: Allow your sponge to dry fully before using again.

How to clean your makeup sponge by soaking

Soaking your makeup sponge is another way to cleanse it effectively. This allows the water and soap to absorb into the sponge and clean any bacteria that may be deep within your makeup sponge.

Step 1: Mix your chosen soap or cleanser with hot water (be careful not to burn your hands) in a bowl or sink.

Step 2: Put your sponge into the soapy water, squeezing it to absorb the water fully. Leave this in your bowl or sink to soak for 5-10 minutes. Alternatively, place the bowl in the microwave for up to a minute to boil the water for a more thorough clean - make sure to let the water cool before retrieving your sponge if you do choose to do this.

Step 3: Take your sponge out of the water and rinse under warm water, squeezing to work in the soap and get out any leftover makeup.

Step 4: Leave your sponge to dry properly before using.

Holly James
Beauty Writer
View Holly James's profile
Working with brands at LOOKFANTASTIC for over two years I have developed my knowledge of all things beauty from key skincare concerns to niche makeup tricks and haircare hacks. I have a major passion for finding effective solutions that are easily accessible to everyone so that we can all achieve our best, glowing complexion.
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