Beauty blenders are a must have makeup tool. They’re an essential part of our daily makeup routine, especially if you wear liquid foundation daily. However, they can also be a great place for bacteria to grow. That’s why it’s important to know when to replace beauty blender.
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Look At How Long You’ve Had It
Beauty blenders tend to last for 3-6 months. If you’ve had yours for years, it’s time to look at other signs that you might need to replace it. There’s a good chance that it’s time for a new one.
Consider How Many Beauty Blenders You Have
You’re supposed to wash your makeup sponge after every use. That is a bit unrealistic for some of us. It means either it is not being properly cleansed (and you will have to replace it sooner) or you have several beauty blenders. If you fall into the latter category, it means that you’re not using the same sponge daily. When that’s the case, your beauty blender will last longer.
Does It Have The Same Egg Shape?
When deciding if it’s time to replace your beauty blender, take a good look at the shape. Beauty blenders that need to be tossed often start to lose shape. Pick up a new one if you notice dents that aren’t supposed to be there.
Tears And Nicks
You might notice tiny tears on your makeup sponge as time goes on. Makeup sponges can also get little nicks due to missing pieces of the sponge. You need to get a new one if you notice either of these.
You’re Getting Breakouts
If you’re getting breakouts and don’t usually get random pimples, it’s a sign that something is off with your makeup brushes and sponges. These products are known for harboring bacteria that can cause pimples. Cleanse your beauty blender and brushes. If the problem persists, use a new beauty blender and see if it clears up. If it does, it’s time for a new one.
You Need A New One Every Season
Because you’re supposed to replace your beauty blender every three months or so, an easy way to remember that it’s time to toss it is to pick up a new one every season. As soon as the weather changes or it’s the first day of Fall, grab an adorable new makeup sponge to bring in the new season.
If You’re Unsure, Toss It
When it comes to food, if it looks terrible, smells funny, or you’re unsure, you shouldn’t eat it. Apply the same rule to your makeup sponges. It’s always better to pick up a new one than take a risk. If there are bacteria on your beauty blender, it can result in a nasty skin infection. It’s better to be on the safe side.
Using It Less Makes It Last Longer
While there are general rules for beauty blenders and other makeup sponges, it’s important to note how long you use it will have an impact on it’s lifespan. If you only wear makeup once a month, your makeup sponges could easily last an entire year. In that situation, please pay attention to signs of wear and tear to determine when it’s time to pick up a new one.
Get The Most Out Of Your Beauty Blender With Regular Cleaning
Makeup build-up can be unsanitary because it is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and can make your beauty blender wear down faster. Make sure that you clean your makeup sponge as often as you’re supposed to so that you can get the most out of your beauty blender.
How Often Should You Clean A Beauty Blender
You need to clean your beauty blender every time that you use it. This can be a pain, but it only takes a few minutes. At the very least, throw it in a basket for dirty makeup brushes and ensure you don’t use it again until you clean them.
Is It Okay If A Beauty Blender Has Stains?
If your beauty sponge has stains, the pigment is so far absorbed into the material that it is a pain to get out. You can try deep cleaning it or tossing it in the washer. However, it’s still safe to use your beauty blender if that doesn’t get the stain out. Just like some ingredients are bound to stain your clothes, some are bound to stain your makeup sponge. As long as you disinfect them properly, you should be fine.
Consider A Silicone Beauty Blender
Silicone beauty blenders and beauty sponges usually last longer than their spongey counterparts. They don’t absorb the product as other makeup sponges do. While there is a learning curve to using a silicone beauty blender, they are much easier to clean when you’re done. Because they don’t absorb products, you use less makeup and they last longer, helping you save quite a bit of money in the long run.
Recommended Silicone Beauty Blenders
Nylea Silicone Makeup Sponge 2-Pack ($5.99)
This silicone beauty sponge is affordable and will last longer than a traditional makeup sponge. They don’t absorb as much product, either. There is a learning curve involved in using a silicone beauty blender, but most people love them after that!
Why You’ll Love It
- Washable
- Easy to use
- Long-lasting
- Affordable
e.l.f. Cosmetics Angled Silicone Face Sponge ($6)
This silicone sponge is larger than most of the others you’ll see on the market, but that’s one of the reasons why we love it. It makes it easier to hold than smaller silicone beauty blenders, which is ideal for beginners.
Why We Love It
- Easy to use
- Contoured tip makes blending easier
- Affordable
- Easy to clean
Plump Right Back Silicone Applicator By NYX Cosmetics ($9)
This plump silicone applicator is easy to clean with warm water and a gentle cleanser after every use. It gives your makeup a gorgeous streak-free finish that will make you want one for every day of the week!
Why You’ll Love It
- Easy application
- Traditional beauty blender shape
- Doesn’t absorb makeup products like traditional makeup sponges
Final Thoughts
If you’re not a fan of silicone beauty blenders, there’s nothing wrong with keeping your favorite makeup sponges. However, knowing when to throw them away is essential to keep your skin healthy. If it’s lost its shape, has tears, or it’s been three months, it’s probably time to pick up a new one. Remember, when in doubt, throw it out.
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