When makeup-blending sponges burst onto the scene, they did it in a big way and just about every beauty junkie wanted one in their kit. As the idea of using a foam sponge to apply foundation for an airbrushed look took off, we thought there was nothing that could do the trick better. Well, that was until we were introduced to the SiliSponge (you can preorder for $10 plus shipping). A little silicone beauty “sponge” of sorts that launched in November, the new product type really caught our eye, but we didn’t expect to see it take off like it is now. However, just last week, another company debuted a similar product called Evie Blender (preorder for $28 plus shipping).
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So what makes these little silicone wonders so crave-worthy? They mimic some of the same functions you get with a blending sponge like the cult-favorite beautyblender, but you don’t waste as much makeup because it’s not porous, meaning it doesn’t absorb makeup. Ever washed a foam makeup sponge and been shocked at how much foundation rinses out down the drain? Silicone puts an end to that problem. (Some makeup sponges claim not to absorb makeup—it supposedly just sits on the surface—but the sponge is still stained with product, which is technically wasted.)
Another benefit is that they’re easier to clean. Most foam versions require a special cleanser to really get them clean, but silicone blenders get rid of makeup residue with just soap and water, or even a makeup wipe, which makes them incredibly convenient for on-the-go use. Hygiene has also been a concern with foam sponges, with many users wondering if they harbor dirt and bacteria that can lead to breakouts. With medical-grade, hypoallergenic silicone, the blenders can be sanitized in boiling water or cleaned with rubbing alcohol so you can feel comfortable knowing they’re squeaky clean.
As we’ve seen with SiliSponge, these new silicone products are selling out super fast so get your name on the preorder list asap!
