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There are many different techniques and tools that can be used to enhance facial massage. While not necessary, there are distinct benefits to using tools like a face roller. These devices, beauty tools, and techniques can be incorporated into a professional massage session or facial, but they can also be used at home as part of your daily ritual.   What is a Face Roller? A face roller is a tool with a rolling head, typically made of jade, rose quartz, or other materials like stainless steel.    Face rollers can be used to help apply products, massage away tension, and improve circulation.   When using a roller, be sure to make sweeping outward motions rather than back and forth or circular. This will help you get the most benefits because you've enhanced circulation and lymph flow in a decongesting direction. Also, remember more pressure isn't better; this should never be a painful or bruising experience.   What are the Benefits of Facial Rolling? The benefits of using a face roller will vary depending on the individual and the specific device used.   Face roller benefits include: Improved circulation: Massaging the face with a face roller can help to improve circulation, bringing oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells and helping to remove waste products. Reduced puffiness and inflammation: Face rolling helps reduce swelling and inflammation through its effects on circulation and enhanced lymphatic drainage. Relaxation: Massaging the face is relaxing and may help reduce stress and promote a sense of wellbeing. Improved product absorption: Using a roller to apply skincare products helps improve their ability to penetrate the skin, allowing them to work more effectively. Improved skin texture and tone: Regular face rolling may help improve the texture and tone of the skin, leaving it looking smoother and more radiant. Face roller benefits, especially reducing puffiness and tightening skin, are temporary. This is also true for the additional benefits of ice rollers; however including the technique in your daily ritual will result in a consistent improvement. Because of the benefits listed above, we think using face rollers is a great addition to an anti aging skincare routine.    What's the Difference Between Face Rollers and Gua Sha? Both face rollers and gua sha are helpful in improving the appearance and health of the skin. Facial gua sha vs roller is a debate that comes down to personal preference for the most part.   The benefits of both techniques are similar - improved circulation, reduced puffiness, enhanced product absorption, improved skin texture and tone, and general relaxation and well-being. Both gua sha and rollers can be made from different crystals like jade and quartz and other materials like stainless steel.   Gua sha has a longer history of use in traditional Chinese medicine and dates back over 2000 years. The technique involves using a smooth, flat tool to massage the skin in a scraping motion.   Facial rolling takes more of a pressure-based, sweeping movement rather than a scraping motion. This works the muscles differently, so some people prefer one technique over another.   Another benefit of facial rollers comes from the shape and ability to design them with different materials and purposes. They have more versatility and secondary advantages than gua sha tools.   Variations in Roller Material and Techniques Face roller benefits in general, are discussed above. However, different types and variations in tools you can buy lead to more versatility and other benefits.   Crystals Jade, amethyst and rose quartz are all minerals used for centuries in various cultural and spiritual practices. These minerals are believed to have unique metaphysical properties like improving tranquillity, mental clarity, and a sense of peace.   By far, the most popular and readily available type to purchase are jade rollers. One of the reasons jade rollers are considered the gold standard by some people is the romantic history associated with ancient Chinese culture and beauty. Other people believe that jade rollers are better because of the crystal structure and metaphysical qualities.    If you like to incorporate these types of beliefs into your beauty rituals, here is a comparison of amethyst and jade vs rose quartz rollers which may play a role in your decision about which to choose:   Jade:   Balances the yin and yang energies within the body Helps to release negative thoughts and emotions Rose quartz:   Promotes love, compassion, and emotional healing Encourages self-love and self-acceptance Amethyst:   Spiritual growth and transformation Mental clarity and balance Different people may have different experiences and beliefs about their energy and vibrations. Others may choose a tool based on their colour or design preference. Regardless, there are many colour and material options to choose from.     Stainless Steel Stainless steel is a popular material for facial rollers. In addition, stainless steel has some potential benefits over jade and quartz crystal rollers:   Durability: Stainless steel is stronger and more durable. Hygiene: Stainless steel is non-porous and easier to clean and sanitize. This can be especially important when using a skincare tool on the face, as it helps to prevent the buildup of bacteria and other contaminants. Cooling effect: Some people find that stainless steel rollers have a cooling effect on the skin, which can be particularly refreshing during hot weather or after a workout. photo of a stainless steel face roller There are also potential sustainability and humanitarian concerns surrounding crystal mining. For example, Jade and Quartz mining can negatively impact deforestation, water pollution, and soil erosion. There have also been concerns about the working conditions and treatment of workers in the jade and quartz mining industry, including reports of child labour and poor health and safety conditions.   Ice Face Roller This adaptation of the traditional face roller has different benefits. Ice rollers are usually cylindrical, filled with water, and frozen in the freezer. When applied to the skin, the ice roller can help to constrict blood vessels, which reduces redness, swelling, inflammation, and puffiness.   If you want to de-puff your face, particularly the eye area, lymphatic system drainage from massage is important. However, de-puffing is the main additional benefit of ice rolling the face.   Derma Roller Dermarolling has gained popularity as it has similarities to the microneedling procedure.   A derma roller is covered in multiple tiny needles. The needles on a derma roller can range in length from 0.2 mm to 3.0 mm, depending on the specific product and the intended use. Derma rollers are used to create tiny punctures in the skin, which can stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. Some people use derma rollers to improve the appearance of fine lines, acne scars, and other skin imperfections.   Some people also find that derma-rolling can stimulate hair growth, but be sure to discuss the use of any serums or hair oils with your prescriber in order to prevent side effects or infection.    photo of a dermaroller There are risks associated with using any needle-based penetrative therapy at home. Bleeding and infection are of the most concern. Ensure you follow all the instructions carefully and discuss the use with your dermatologist or health provider. Never share dermarollers between individuals.   Under-Eye Roller An under-eye roller is specifically designed for use around the delicate eye area. It is typically smaller and more compact than a face roller, with a smaller roller head better suited for the skin around the eyes.   Oil-Absorbing Roller Oil-absorbing face rollers reduce excess oil and shine on the skin. They are typically made of a material that can absorb extra oil, such as clay or charcoal. Some even use natural volcanic stone, though we caution that these may be abrasive.   To use an oil-absorbing face roller, you typically roll it over the skin in a gentle, circular motion. The roller will absorb excess oil and impurities from the skin, leaving it feeling clean and refreshed. It's important to clean the roller thoroughly after each use to prevent buildup of bacteria and dirt. Some oil-absorbing face rollers may be disposable, while others can be washed and reused multiple times.   What Skincare Products Should I Use While Rolling Like gua sha, it's important to use a serum or facial oil to help with the glide of the roller. This ensures you will get a good result and won't cause tugging or skin discomfort. We've written an article about choosing the best face oil for gua sha, and the same principles for decision-making apply to rollers. Your skincare routine will usually include a serum or facial oil that would be suitable; there is rarely a need to buy a new product.   One exception is dermarolling as you want to ensure any products you use are approved by the manufacturer of the derma roller and felt to be compatible so that the risk of bacterial infection is avoided.   Summary So, does it matter if you choose a jade roller or quartz roller?   Probably not.   There are many face roller benefits, regardless of the type you choose. We're partial to ice rollers because the benefits are expanded by the addition of temperature changes to the massage.   These tools will not revolutionize your skincare routine and many of the benefits you see from using them are temporary.   However, massage and enhanced lymphatic drainage are excellent ways to get a boost and are important additions to self care rituals.      

The warm weather is starting to make an appearance, which means that sandal season isn’t too far behind. It’s time to start tending to your feet!    While it’s not so glamorous, it’s easy to neglect your feet as part of your beauty routine. We usually think that pretty, painted toenails is all it takes to care for our feet — but it’s not.     There’s a lot of other issues, most notably calluses and dry, dead skin that linger on the balls and heels of your feet. Plus, your feet go through a lot on a daily basis, from walking rough terrain, enduring sweaty shoes, and constant walking, so they deserve some TLC.   One easy and seamless way to care for your feet and get them in tip-top shape is by using a foot file. And we’re breaking down everything you need to know below   What is a foot file?   A foot file is similar to a pumice stone and is usually made of metal or sandpaper. They easily, safely, and effectively remove calluses, dry, rough, and dead skin from the bottoms of your feet. With some gentle scraping of a foot file, your feet will feel and look much smoother.    One of our favorite foot files, featured in the Summer Box, is the Barefoot Scientist Smooth Things Over Pedicure File. This foot file is made with premium stainless steel and is double-sided: one side is grittier to help effectively exfoliate the skin while the flip side is very smooth to soften the skin after you’re done filing.    How do you use it? The best way to use a foot file is on damp feet after a shower or bath. Gently glide the file in circular motions to remove calluses and dry skin. Apply as much pressure as you deem fit to get the amount of exfoliation you need. After you’re done, rinse the file with warm water and soap. Then let it air dry.   Your feet will be thanking you for this new addition to your self-care routine!     

From the bristles of brushes to the porous surfaces of sponges, your makeup kit can harbour a host of bacteria and fungi.   These potentially hazardous contaminants can originate not only from the cosmetics themselves, but also from the very surface of our skin.   So, how can we keep things hygienic and avoid microbial growth on makeup brushes and sponges? Here’s what you need to know.   How do germs and fungi get in my brushes and sponges? Germs and fungi can make their way into your makeup kit in lots of ways.   Ever flushed a toilet with the lid open with your makeup brushes nearby? There’s a good chance faecal particles have landed on them.   Perhaps a family member or housemate has used your eyeshadow brush when you weren’t looking, and transferred some microbes across in the process.   Bacteria that trigger a pimple outbreak can be easily transferred from the surface of your skin to a makeup brush or sponge.   And tiny little mites called Demodex mites, which have been linked to certain rashes and acne, live on your skin, as well, and so may end up in your sponge or brushes.   Bacterial contamination of lip cosmetics, in particular, can pose a risk of skin and eye infections (so keep that in mind if you use lip brushes). Lipsticks are frequently contaminated with bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, and Streptococcus pneumoniae.   Low-quality cosmetics are more likely to have higher and more diverse microbial growth compared to high-quality cosmetics.   Brushes exposed to sensitive areas like the eyes, mouth and nose are particularly susceptible to being potential sources of infection.   The range of conditions caused by these microorganisms includes:   abscesses   skin and soft tissue infections   skin lesions   rashes   and dermatitis.   In severe cases, infections can lead to invasion of the bloodstream or deep tissues.   Commercially available cosmetics contain varying amounts and types of preservatives aimed at inhibiting the growth of fungi and bacteria.   But when you apply makeup, different cosmetics with unique formulations of preservatives can become mixed. When a preservative meant for one product mixes with others, it might not work as well because they have different water amounts or pH levels.   So preservatives are not foolproof. We also need to observe good hygiene practices when it comes to brushes and other cosmetics applicators.  

When it comes to applying makeup, you want to set yourself up for success by using the correct tools. And while you can certainly apply your makeup with your fingers or a blending sponge, makeup brushes often give the most seamless and flawless finish.   From foundation brushes to eyeshadow brushes and fluffy bronzer and blush brushes, it can be a little bit overwhelming if you’re not sure which one or ones will work best for you and your makeup routine. Which is why we spoke to the experts to get a better understanding of which ones work for what, as well as some of their top picks.   What makeup brushes do I absolutely need? As you might expect, this varies from person to person. For example, if you only take five minutes in the morning to do your makeup, you won’t need a makeup bag full of brushes to do so. But if you like to experiment with different eye looks or do a full face of makeup, you will need a wider array of makeup tools.   According to Bailey Collier, Makeup Artist and Head of Marketing at House of Amor, to keep it simple, you only really need four makeup brushes at your disposal: “A foundation brush for applying a smooth, even base; a fluffy powder brush, great for setting your face with powder or adding warmth with bronzer; an angled fluffy brush for applying blush or highlighter with a soft, blended finish; and a fluffy eyeshadow brush.” This is a good starting point to build from.   Or, alternatively, quite a few brands and retailers do brush sets which will include every brush you could possibly need and give you the opportunity to try out some different makeup looks.     Do good makeup brushes make a difference? The experts all agree that it’s worth it to invest in good-quality makeup brushes, with Bailey explaining that “no matter how great a makeup product is, if you’re not applying it correctly with the right brush, it won’t perform to its full potential.” She adds that, “makeup brushes are often even more important than the product itself.” So, if you routinely shell out quite a bit on your foundation, but don’t have the right brush to apply it, you won’t be getting the most out of the product or your money.   “However, you don’t need to break the bank to get quality brushes,” according to Cosmetify’s Beauty Editor, Maria Mukaranda. “There are plenty of affordable brands that offer great brushes, and many of them come in bundles, making it easier to find good quality at a lower price.” Some of the most affordable, but still impressive, include brands like Real Techniques, Revolution, EcoTools and BH Cosmetics.   “Investing in better makeup brushes also means they’ll have a longer lifespan, lessening product waste and the need to repurchase more often,” adds Grace Ferns, Beauty Expert and Senior Buyer at BEAUTYBAY. And there are some nice mid-range and more luxurious makeup brushes to choose from, as you will see below.

As technology and product innovation grows and develops, keeping a fully or even partially sustainable beauty routine becomes less of a challenge. We can now opt for reusable makeup remover pads and other products, and also recycle products in our hair care, skin care, and makeup arsenals. It’s part of the reason why the silicone makeup blender became one of the trendiest reusable tools for applying face makeup years ago. And while foam makeup sponges have more recently taken the spot as the go-to for achieving a flawless, airbrush-like foundation finish, the silicone blender is not to be counted out. Check out our five reasons why you should consider keeping a silicone makeup sponge in your beauty kit.   What Is A Silicone Makeup Sponge? In case you missed the height of the silicone sponge era, let’s review. A silicone makeup sponge is exactly what it sounds like—a makeup blender that’s made of a rubbery, silicone material. Also referred to as jelly makeup sponges, silicone makeup sponges come in a range of shapes and sizes and are primarily used to apply foundation, concealer, and face powder.    5 Reasons To Use A Silicone Makeup Sponge There are plenty of reasons to use a silicone makeup sponge to perfect your beauty look, here’s five that top our list.   1. Easy Cleaning  Cleaning makeup brushes and blenders can be a headache. You have to dedicate a hefty amount of time to thoroughly cleanse every ounce of makeup that has made its way into the crevices of your tools, not to mention account for drying time. With a silicone makeup blender, you don’t have to worry about product that has been absorbed into the sponge, so cleaning just takes a few minutes. There’s also no drying time required.   2. Saving Product Since a silicone makeup blender won’t absorb product like a traditional soft, foamy sponge does, it also doesn't soak up product on your face while you’re blending it. A little full-coverage foundation can go a long way when your sponge isn’t eating it up.      3. Sustainability Like we mentioned, silicone makeup sponges are planet-friendly. Sure, traditional sponges can be used multiple times, but after a handful of uses they need to be replaced. Since a silicone makeup blender doesn’t absorb products with each use and has a more durable material, they beat out the alternative on the sustainability front. A silicone blender also won’t hoard bacteria over time, since the outside of the blender can be easily cleaned after each use without the worry of lingering product     4. Long-lasting  By now you get the idea that silicone makeup sponges are pretty long-lasting. With proper cleaning after each use, you can keep the same one in your makeup bag for a year or more.     5. Budget-friendly Since silicone blenders are long-lasting, they can save you some coins in the long run. Without the need to constantly replace your makeup sponge, you can put that money toward other beauty buys. And with less product ending up in the sponge, and blending onto your face as intended, you can use less makeup and still get your desired look.          

Benefits of Using a Makeup Blender Here are some reasons why we love using makeup sponges, and why our Non Latex Makeup Blender is our go-to tool for foundation, concealer, and everything in between!   Multipurpose and Versatile Generally, makeup blenders are marketed for the use of foundation. But as you’ll quickly find, these cute little sponges truly pack a punch when it comes to their versatility. Aside from foundation, makeup blenders can also be used for concealer, setting powder, contouring, and even applying skincare!   And this can make them especially appealing for those just starting out with makeup, since they can be used in place of a number of brushes.   Beginner Friendly As mentioned above, makeup blenders are super beginner-friendly–not only because they’re so versatile, but also because they’re foolproof, and don’t need a whole lot of practice to achieve a flawless foundation finish.   Great For All Skin Types If your skin is on the dry side, or even if you have textured skin (like most individuals), you might feel like every foundation is too cakey for your skin.   However, it might not be your foundation that’s at fault, but rather, your method of application. While most brushes drag product across the skin, makeup blenders lightly push the makeup for an extra-smooth, polished look that looks good on every skin type.   Flawless and Natural Look While brushes can often lead to streaks, smudges and caking, a makeup blender’s spongy texture helps it absorb any excess product, making it all the easier for you to blend your makeup.   Even better, a damp blender will help give the skin a cake-free, dewy finish in a matter of seconds.   Easy Cleaning If you’re sick of washing yet another set of makeup brushes each week for foundation alone, we have great news: makeup blenders are easy to clean!   With a bar soap or chlorine-free, alcohol-free dish soap, here’s how to get your makeup blender squeaky clean in minutes:   Saturate your sponge in cold  water, and lather it with the soap, making sure to focus on areas with the most staining.   Place the sponge under running water and thoroughly squeeze until the tap runs clear and the sponge is no longer foamy or sudsy when rinsed.   Gently press the sponge on a dry towel and allow it to air dry.    

Before we get into it, we can’t stress the versatility of makeup blenders–they can be used for just about any kind of makeup!   But for the sake of learning, let’s focus today on makeup blenders for flawless foundation application.   Before you even pop off the lid of your favorite foundation, here’s a pro tip: moisten the beauty blender sponge by soaking it in cold water, or by spritzing it with a setting spray. When damp, a makeup sponge will give you a sheer, dewy finish without using up all of your product.   Next, it’s important to make sure that the sponge is damp, and not wet. In other words, proceed to gently squeeze out all the excess water from the blender, taking care not to be too harsh on the tool itself.     Now for the application, it’s recommended that you avoid any heavy-handed motions, and that you don’t just drag your makeup blender across your skin in this way.   When using your makeup blender, it’s recommended that you instead adopt a bouncing motion, lightly patting and blending the foundation on your skin to give it a uniform, flawless coverage and diffused finish.   To follow up with concealer, simply apply the product beneath the eye area with your ring finger, before using the pointed edge of the makeup blender to seamlessly blend your concealer with the base foundation.   Now, it’s time to set your look. To do so, press the rounded part of the sponge into your setting powder before stippling it over the concealer. This will not only set your makeup for longer-lasting wear, but it will also help prevent any smudging, crinkling or smearing.      

Rea Ann Silva didn't set out to create magic makeup. But 10 years ago, when the makeup artist started cutting the corners off of her makeup sponges during a special effects makeup class, a lightbulb went off. "I was totally enraptured and I thought, Oh, my God, this could be it," she told Allure. And in that moment of enlightenment, the Beautyblender was born.   Fast-forward to the present, and the revolutionary makeup sponge has taken home more than a handful of Best of Beauty Awards (seven, to be exact) since its launch in 2007 and can be found in the kits of makeup artists, celebrities, and Instagram stars alike. And it's all for good reason: It works really damn well.   The latex-free makeup sponge — which is hot pink and the shape and size of a small egg — is designed to be used wet (yes, you're supposed to dampen the sponge before every use). Once the proprietary foam soaks up the water, there's no room left to absorb makeup. The idea is that foundation (or tinted moisturizer, BB cream, what have you) sits atop the sponge and gets pressed onto the skin instead of getting absorbed by the sponge. This ensures you waste less makeup and get an even, flawless finish. "I wanted a tool that gave you an airbrushed look without having to actually use an airbrush machine," Silva said. Genius, really.   Even its cone-shaped tip was well thought out. "I wanted the sponge to be edgeless so that it would fit the contours of the face — like the eyes and nose — and have a soft, suede-like texture," Silva has previously told Allure. The top of the teardrop is versatile enough to reach into every nook and cranny — under eyes, around the nose, etc. — to create streak-free makeup application.   Contrary to popular belief, the Beautyblender can be used to apply all types of makeup — not just foundation — as the sponge can be also used with cream blushes, bronzers, and highlighters. Surprisingly, the palm-size orb works wonders with powder formulas, too. "With pressed powder, brushes are like little brooms," explained Silva, who says brushes tend to sweep product around rather than depositing it to control oil. When powder is applied with a Beautyblender, you can "focus on the areas where you want to wipe out shine." Just remember to wring out your sponge to remove excess water before dipping it into your powder pan. (This eliminates the likelihood of water seeping into the pan and ultimately ruining your favorite powder makeup.)   It's good for touch-ups, too. Although the Beautyblender's Blotterazzi, a spin-off of the OG sponge, is best known for its oil-absorbing powers, the namesake sponge is also great for midday shine control — without any added mess. Instead of layering on extra powder or foundation, simply buff the Beautyblender over your skin to reblend the morning's makeup. After a few sweeps, you'll discover your a.m. application looks as good as new — no extra product required.    

Makeup sponges are essential for creating a perfect base. These days there are a ton of different shapes, sizes and textures out there so knowing what to buy can be a bit of a minefield. Before we introduce you to the very best base blenders in the biz, we thought it would be good to get some info from a pro on why we should all be using sponges.   We spoke to professional MUA Hannah Martin to get the low down on makeup sponges, what they do and why everyone needs one in their kit. Take notes.   How do you use a makeup sponge? "A dampened sponge can blend foundation more effectively and evenly than fingers or brushes", says Martin. "They can also lay down powder more densely and with more precision than a brush."   "Most sponges are made from hydrophilic foam that can hold water, you dampen them before use and that way they don’t absorb any of the liquid products that you might use them with."   Why should you use a makeup sponge instead of a brush or your fingers? "Many believe that a sponge bounced over the skin can give a more even finish than using fingers or a brush. You can also very quickly and easily wash your sponge immediately after use, so some feel they are more hygienic ,says Martin. "I think it's down to personal preference when it comes to the finish you want to achieve."   So, are you more likely to get an even finish with a sponge? "Yes, the act of ‘bouncing’ a sponge over foundation is a really great way of ensuring you create an even base. Most sponges have a combination of flat edges for powder (and precision) and more rounded sides for foundation, this means that they don’t leave stripes or stroke marks on the skin which some brushes, especially dirty brushes can." Explains Martin. "The more spherical the sponge the quicker an easier it is to apply your base. A flatter sponge with have a similar effect but it may take longer to achieve the same effect."   What's the best way to take care of a makeup sponge? "Always rinse your sponge immediately after use" she says. "This prevents both product and bacteria build up in the sponge. There are lots of sponge soaps available, but a little mild shampoo does the trick also. Wring out as much water as you can and leave to dry . Avoid packing away a damp sponge as it may go mouldy."   So, whether you want a sponge for blending foundation, baking powder or contouring those cheekbones, here are the very best sponges to help you curate the perfect base...

You need to clean your Beautyblender and makeup sponges way, way more frequently than you currently do (which I’m guessing is, um, once or twice a year max?  Seriously—take it from me, someone who genuinely hates cleaning my makeup brushes, when I say that actually taking five minutes to just do the damn thing is significantly better than letting your Beautyblender or makeup sponge continue to sit and fester with built-up skin gunk and grime, makeup, skin oils, and bacteria. Yum!   This isn’t to gross you out or scare you (fine, maybe a lil bit, if it will actually get you to clean your sponges), it’s just facts. Even if your Beautyblender or sponge is “antimicrobial,” that doesn’t mean it magically stays clean—antimicrobial properties just make the sponge a less hospitable environment for bacteria to grow. But that doesn't do anything to help the build-up that can lead to breakouts, irritation, and inflammation. Which brings us to...   How often should you clean a Beautyblender? In a perfect world? After each use. But since that'll never happen, most experts agree that you should clean your Beautyblender or makeup sponge at least once a week. "Ideally, you'd wash all of your makeup tools every single day, but I know this is unrealistic," dermatologist Geeta Yadav, MD, founder of Skin Science Dermatology, has told Cosmo. So instead, stick to cleaning your Beautyblender weekly. "Make it a Sunday-night activity so that you can start your week off fresh," she added.   Luckily, washing your makeup sponge really isn't that time-consuming. It's 2021, baby, and there are a trillion makeup brush cleaners and tried-and-tested YouTube tutorials to guide you through the process, whether you're working with a cleansing pad, your hand, or just some dish soap. Keep reading, and please wash your sponges tonight, ok?  

A Latina has made her mark on the beauty world as she developed one of the most popular makeup tools in recent years.   Rea Ann Silva founded Beautyblender, the company behind the widely popular egg-shaped sponges that help people cover blemishes and blend different colors when applying makeup.    The colorful applicators may be small, but they hold two decades worth of Silva’s history and experience.   “I kind of took everything I learned and just started experimenting,” Silva, the founder and CEO of Beautyblender, said.    In the early 2000s, Silva was a makeup artist for MTV music videos and the TV show “Girlfriends.”   “The first show being shot in high definition and broadcast – it was kind of a big experiment,” recalled Silva as she was hired because of her expertise in doing makeup for women of color with different complexions.    “I had to find a way to keep that consistency – that light – that beautiful flawless look throughout the day,” Silva said.   Her experiment started with a small piece of sponge until she made various iterations.    “I came to the conclusion that the egg shape is the perfect shape,” she explained.   While she faced challenges, especially when working with male engineers when developing her product, her passion kept her moving forward.   “The advantage that I had was that most of the men that I was dealing with knew nothing about makeup,” Silva said. “There were many no’s. It’s a numbers game until you get to the yes.”   Silva, who does not speak Spanish as her parents were second-generation immigrants, said she never felt Latina enough until she was recently honored by the Hispanic Heritage Foundation with the entrepreneurial award.   “Defining who you are as a Latino – whether you’re first generation, second generation, third generation. For me, it was really a banner moment in my life to be seen this way,” she said.   Silva was also recognized by the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.    “To Think that me creating my little egg-shaped sponge changed an industry, it was pretty amazing.”

Step 1: Spray Brushes with Cleaner Spritz brushes with a spray brush cleaner. This is the best option if you have sensitive skin, as it's formulated for this purpose and won't have other additives or artificial fragrances. Alternatively, mix warm water and a bit of soap. This can be a touch of non-drying bar soap or a few drops of liquid hand soap. (Steer clear of dish soap, which can dry out the bristles.) Dampen a microfiber cloth with it and gently brush the bristles over the cloth.   Step 2: Massage Into Bristles and Rinse Use your fingers to work the cleanser through the bristle. "I gently massage the tips of the bristles in the palm of my hand or on a silicone brush cleansing mat, and then rinse the bristles, making sure the soap and product are 100 percent out," she says. Point your brushes downward when rinsing. Otherwise, the water will run into the ferrule—the metal band that attaches the brushes to the handle—and loosen the glue that holds the brush and bristles together.   Step 3: Squeeze Out the Remaining Moisture Once you stop seeing pigment streaming from the bristles and the water is running clear, squeeze out the remaining moisture. "I gently squeeze out any remaining moisture with a towel," Dempsey says. "It's important to shape the brushes to their desired shape so that when they're dry, they're in their original form for better performance." To clean makeup brushes fast, a brush cleaning mat expedites the process via patented textures that help pull the product off each brush more efficiently.   Step 4: Dry Lay your makeup brushes flat on a clean towel or hang them upside down. Never allow a wet brush to dry standing up. If you wash your brushes in the evening, they can dry completely overnight. How to Clean Makeup Brushes With Shampoo You might have heard that you can use shampoo for cleaning makeup brushes. While this is true, it's important to choose the right shampoo.   Step 1: Rinse Bristles With Warm Water At the sink, hold the brush under warm water. Keep the handle out of the stream to avoid damaging the glue that attaches the bristles to the base.   Step 2: Add Shampoo Apply a drop or two of baby shampoo or a gentle shampoo. Rich shampoos can leave a residue on the bristles, which will weigh them down. Alternatively, use a makeup brush shampoo specifically formulated for this purpose.   Step 3: Massage Bristles To create a lather, place the bristles in the palm of one hand, and use your fingers to work the shampoo into them.   Step 4: Rinse and Condition Rinse the bristles under water until there's no longer any pigment or shampoo streaming from them, and the water is running clear. Squeeze out the remaining moisture. Add a touch of hair conditioner to moisturize the bristles and rinse again.   Step 5: Reshape and Dry Squeeze out the remaining moisture, reshape the bristles into their original form, and dry flat on a clean towel.

If you know beauty, you know Beautyblender. Since the brand’s launch in 2003, those fuchsia, egg-shaped sponges have become a staple in the beauty industry, thanks to the ingenuity of Rea Ann Silva, Beautyblender’s Latina founder and CEO. Today, the Bethlehem, Pennsylvania-based company is coming off its 13th Allure Best of Beauty Hall of Fame Award, and does $100 million to $150 million in annual retail sales.     But you don’t dominate a trend-driven industry for more than two decades without encountering a few challenges. Between the pressure to innovate, changes in technology, and knockoffs of her product, Silva has faced her fair share.     Here’s Silva’s advice for staying at the forefront of a fast-paced industry.    Start With a Star Product In the early 2000s, in her early days as a celebrity makeup stylist, Silva was working on a high-definition TV series. She needed a quick way to ensure the makeup looked natural and airbrushed, so she started experimenting with her sponges.    She hand-cut the sponges into a variety of shapes before landing on an “egg” with a pointed tip. But while Silva originally created the Beautyblender for makeup artists, the consumer market was the natural progression for her user-friendly product.    This, she says, was the first step toward industry domination: “If it didn’t work, it wouldn’t be relevant.”   At the time, there wasn’t a space in the industry for beauty blenders, says Anna Stella, an award-winning marketer and founder of Dover, Delaware-based marketing firm BBSA. Silva “created a new category from scratch,” Stella says—evidence that being first often matters more than being better.   Don’t Just Throw Money at Marketing  Beautyblender became a category leader thanks in part to early makeup influencers who loved the product. Now, Silva uses paid media with a roster of influencers, from powerhouses like Erica Taylor to mid-tier and micro influencers like Ale Jay and Riya Bodas. But despite her brand’s success on social media, Silva restrains herself when it comes to Beautyblender’s influencer budget.   You can always throw money at marketing to try to stay relevant, she says, but that’s not efficient—especially for smaller brands. And Silva, who retains 100 percent ownership of the company, still considers Beautyblender to be an “indie brand.”   Finding the sweet spot between spending and returns is essential to longevity, Silva says: “The biggest challenge is staying productive and selling products so I can afford to market the products. It’s a constant reshuffling of the deck.”    

   After years of applying foundation with my fingertips, I was ready to give beauty tools a shot. My hands weren't cutting it when it came to blending — and I was sick of accidentally getting concealer all over my clothes. I also knew, though, that I wouldn't regularly clean a makeup brush. My solution was to finally put the world's most popular makeup sponge — the Beautyblender — to the test.       After a single use, I was convinced that my life would never be the same. Once you learn how to use a makeup sponge to apply foundation, you'll feel exactly the same. It seems relatively foolproof, but there's actually a right and a wrong way to use the porous tool. So to help you get the best foundation finish of your life, we caught up with MUA Kelli J. Bartlett for an incredibly simple breakdown.   Keep scrolling for how to apply foundation with a sponge — plus the benefits of doing so.   How to Apply Foundation With a Makeup Sponge Wet the Sponge You should never use a makeup sponge dry to apply foundation, especially if it's a Beautyblender, says Bartlett. She recommends squishing it under water about eight times until it's fully saturated. Then, wring out the excess water. Not only will this give you more of a natural finish that you can build upon, but it also won't allow the sponge to soak up excess foundation.   Get Your Foundation on the Sponge Next, dip the sponge into your foundation. If you're using a Beautyblender, dip the larger, rounded side in the foundation — as opposed to the thinner, pointier side. This way, you'll be able to cover more surface area.   Apply the Foundation on Your Skin Then, gently press or roll the sponge onto your skin to provide coverage. "Bouncing or dabbing is preferred as it allows the product to melt into your skin, creating a seamless finish," explains Bartlett.   If you're using a Beautyblender, use the pointy edge to target hard-to-reach areas like around the nose. Bartlett also recommends using this side to conceal and brighten the under-eye area.  

According to the skin expert, while taking care of your dirty brushes isn’t necessarily a complicated task, it is one that’s crucial to keeping your skin looking and feeling its best.    “Keeping makeup brushes and makeup sponges clean is essential for healthy skin,” says Osmo, founder of Sydney-based skin care clinic Glow Medispa. “Build up from makeup, oils, and bacteria can transfer onto your face, leading to breakouts or irritation.”     The dermal therapist says the best way to clean dirty brushes is with a gentle cleanser or a specialised brush cleaner, “Dampen the bristles with lukewarm water, add a small amount of cleanser, and gently swirl the brush in your palm or a silicone brush mat until it lathers,” she explains.    “Rinse thoroughly and reshape the bristles, laying the brush flat to dry on a clean towel to prevent water from seeping into the handle, which can loosen the glue.”   “For makeup sponges, a similar gentle cleanser works best. Wet the sponge, apply cleanser, and squeeze to work out the makeup residue,” Osmo continues. “Rinse until the water runs clear, then gently squeeze out excess water and let it air-dry completely to prevent bacteria growth.”   Unlike some lifestyle staples – such as the kitchen trash can or laundry hamper – it can be difficult to tell when your brushes are overdue for a good clean based on appearance alone.    “One of the biggest mistakes people make with makeup brushes and sponges is not cleaning them often enough. Our brushes accumulate oils, bacteria, and old makeup, which can lead to clogged pores and breakouts,” Osmo says.    “Ideally, brushes should be cleaned weekly, and makeup sponges after every few uses, especially if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin.”   Just as you wash your pillowcase every week to avoid a build-up of bacteria, it is generally recommended to also wash your makeup brush and tools weekly. Washing them often – and with care – will also help maintain the integrity of your brushes’ bristle quality. Sounds like a win-win to us.

Be honest, how often are you washing your makeup brushes? According to the American Dermatology Association, dirty brushes collect product residue, dirt, and oil, making them a breeding ground for bacteria that can wreak havoc on your skin. Gross! But that’s all the proof we need to say it's crucial to know how to clean makeup brushes, how often to do so, and when it's time to just throw them the heck out.   We sweep our faces with these brushes almost every day, but we can't always say the same thing about how frequently we clean them. For starters, giving them a thorough washing every month or so is not enough. According to dermatologists and makeup artists, we should be sudsing up our tools far more often to prevent bacteria buildup, which can lead to breakouts.     "At least a few times a year I'm able to track down a new breakout to a patient's old makeup. But there is always the question of how much the makeup brush may have had to do with the problem," says  a Miami-based board-certified dermatologist. "When that makeup gets old it may start to harbor bacteria, and the bacteria can overgrow on the surface of the makeup brushes which don't have any antibacterial or antifungal protection. In fact, we know that makeup brushes do grow bacteria and fungus but we don't know how common this is in our own home if we're washing them regularly."    If that doesn't convince you to wash your brushes often, perhaps a step-by-step guide from makeup artists and dermatologists on how to clean makeup brushes will do the trick.

You might have heard that you can use shampoo for cleaning makeup brushes. While this is true, it's important to choose the right shampoo.   Step 1: Rinse Bristles With Warm Water At the sink, hold the brush under warm water. Keep the handle out of the stream to avoid damaging the glue that attaches the bristles to the base.   Step 2: Add Shampoo Apply a drop or two of baby shampoo or a gentle shampoo. Rich shampoos can leave a residue on the bristles, which will weigh them down. Alternatively, use a makeup brush shampoo specifically formulated for this purpose.   Step 3: Massage Bristles To create a lather, place the bristles in the palm of one hand, and use your fingers to work the shampoo into them. Step 4: Rinse and Condition Rinse the bristles under water until there's no longer any pigment or shampoo streaming from them, and the water is running clear. Squeeze out the remaining moisture. Add a touch of hair conditioner to moisturize the bristles and rinse again.   Step 5: Reshape and Dry Squeeze out the remaining moisture, reshape the bristles into their original form, and dry flat on a clean towel. How to Care for Brushes When Not in Use Your makeup brushes will last longer if you store them correctly when not in use. "Store your brushes in a closed container to prevent pollutants like dust and dirt from landing on the bristles and eventually onto your skin," Tanzi says. Some options for where to keep brushes:   In a clean makeup bag or pencil case with other clean brushes. In an acrylic makeup organizer. When to Replace Your Makeup Brushes Well-made makeup brushes that are washed consistently and dried properly can last many years. Signs that they're ready to be tossed include:   Bristles that keep falling out Foul odors Frayed bristles Bristles that can't be reshaped Gunkiness that won't come out with cleaning "A set of high-quality makeup brushes should be considered an investment," says makeup artist Michiko Boorberg. "Treat your tools with respect by cleaning and caring for them properly, and they will last a very long time."   Frequently Asked Questions How do you clean liquid products off makeup brushes and sponges? With a brush used to apply liquid foundation or other wet products, clean it after every use. You can use the regular washing technique outlined above, but there are also a few quick solutions for in-between proper cleanings. Here are some options to help dissolve pigments, oil buildup, and dead skin cells:   Wipe makeup brushes down with a makeup-removing towelette. See our recommended eye makeup removers for our favorite brand of towelettes. Spritz them with a rinse-free spray cleanser, like Cinema Secrets Makeup Brush Cleaner Spray. Rinse under a stream of warm water. Use the same process to clean a Beauty Blender. When thoroughly rinsing with water, you'll want to squeeze them throughout the cleansing process to ensure all liquid product has been removed. How do I clean eyeshadow brushes between colors? When creating a multi-color eye look, cleaning your eyeshadow brush between every color doesn't make sense. Fortunately, there's a tool for that. Alison Raffaele Tatem, a makeup artist based in New York City, says you can swipe your brush against a textured sponge to remove powder between shades.   "The rough consistency of the sponge will remove pigment from your bristles so you can switch palettes without having to switch brushes," she says.   How can I clean makeup brushes fast? If you're looking for a shortcut, you have a few automated options, like a makeup brush sanitizer. However, keep in mind that a sanitizer is not a permanent replacement for washing your brushes. It's still crucial to manually wash them regularly, but a sanitizer can help reduce bacteria between washings.        

When choosing a makeup brush suitable for beginners, there are several key factors to consider, including bristle material, shape and price. Beginners usually need a basic set of makeup brushes that can complete everyday makeup while being suitable for practicing different makeup techniques. Here are some tips for buying makeup brushes that are suitable for beginners:   Choose the appropriate bristle material. The bristle material of the makeup brush has a great influence on the makeup effect. In general, natural bristles are better for beginners than synthetic bristles because they are softer and easier to master. Common natural bristles include goat hair, horse hair, and pig bristles. In addition, synthetic bristles also have good performance, and the price is more affordable, suitable for those who are looking for animal friendly consumers.   Second, choose the appropriate brush shape. Different makeup brushes are suitable for different parts of makeup, such as foundation brush for applying foundation, eye shadow brush for applying eye shadow and so on. Beginners can choose some multi-functional makeup brush sets, generally including foundation brush, eye shadow brush, blush brush, etc., can meet the needs of daily makeup.   Third, consider the price factor. Beginners usually don't need to buy overly expensive makeup brushes, because they may not have mastered various skills and don't need too many brushes to achieve different effects. Look for brands that offer good value for money, such as Real Techniques and EcoTools, whose brushes are good quality and affordable for beginners.   In addition, you also need to pay attention to the following points when purchasing makeup brushes:   1. Pay attention to whether the texture and color of the bristles are uniform, and avoid choosing makeup brushes with broken or uneven hair;   2. Pay attention to whether the length and grip of the brush handle are suitable for yourself, and choose a makeup brush that is comfortable to hold can better master makeup skills;   3. Understand the reputation and evaluation of the brand before purchasing makeup brushes, and avoid buying poor quality makeup brushes.   In general, the purchase of makeup brushes suitable for beginners needs to take into account factors such as brush material, shape, price and brand, choosing the right makeup brush can help beginners better master makeup skills and create the perfect makeup. I hope the above suggestions help you, I wish you a happy purchase!

When choosing a makeup brush suitable for beginners, there are several key factors to consider, including bristle material, shape and price. Beginners usually need a basic set of makeup brushes that can complete everyday makeup while being suitable for practicing different makeup techniques. Here are some tips for buying makeup brushes that are suitable for beginners:     Choose the appropriate bristle material. The bristle material of the makeup brush has a great influence on the makeup effect. In general, natural bristles are better for beginners than synthetic bristles because they are softer and easier to master. Common natural bristles include goat hair, horse hair, and pig bristles. In addition, synthetic bristles also have good performance, and the price is more affordable, suitable for those who are looking for animal friendly consumers.   Second, choose the appropriate brush shape. Different makeup brushes are suitable for different parts of makeup, such as foundation brush for applying foundation, eye shadow brush for applying eye shadow and so on. Beginners can choose some multi-functional makeup brush sets, generally including foundation brush, eye shadow brush, blush brush, etc., can meet the needs of daily makeup.   Third, consider the price factor. Beginners usually don't need to buy overly expensive makeup brushes, because they may not have mastered various skills and don't need too many brushes to achieve different effects. Look for brands that offer good value for money, such as Real Techniques and EcoTools, whose brushes are good quality and affordable for beginners.   In addition, you also need to pay attention to the following points when purchasing makeup brushes:   1. Pay attention to whether the texture and color of the bristles are uniform, and avoid choosing makeup brushes with broken or uneven hair;   2. Pay attention to whether the length and grip of the brush handle are suitable for yourself, and choose a makeup brush that is comfortable to hold can better master makeup skills;   3. Understand the reputation and evaluation of the brand before purchasing makeup brushes, and avoid buying poor quality makeup brushes.   In general, the purchase of makeup brushes suitable for beginners needs to take into account factors such as brush material, shape, price and brand, choosing the right makeup brush can help beginners better master makeup skills and create the perfect makeup. I hope the above suggestions help you, I wish you a happy purchase!    

In the world of beauty, a high-quality makeup brush set is like a brush in the hand of an artist, whether it is to create a strong makeup of the stunning or light makeup of the natural, all play a vital role.   For a makeup brush set that can meet the needs of both heavy makeup and light makeup, the first thing to consider is the material of the bristles. Both natural animal hair and synthetic fiber hair have their own advantages. For example, mink hair is soft and has a strong powder grip, which is suitable for brushing fine powder makeup products. When wearing heavy makeup, it can be well dipped in eyeshadow to create a rich and layered eye makeup effect. For light makeup, it can accurately spread light color on the eyelid, showing a natural makeup. Synthetic fiber wool is durable and not easily deformed, and it can also cope well with paste and liquid makeup. For example, if the concealer brush is used for heavy makeup, it can apply concealer more smoothly if it is made of synthetic fiber, and it can also gently handle local blemishes when wearing light makeup.     A complete and practical makeup brush set should include a variety of brushes with different functions. Foundation brush is essential, it can make the foundation evenly covered on the face, whether it is to create a strong makeup need for high concealer effect, or light makeup of light texture, can be achieved by the right foundation brush. For eye makeup, the eye shadow brush should cover different sizes. Small eyeshadow brushes can be used to outline the tail of the eye or the lower lid with light makeup, while medium and large eyeshadow brushes can blend large areas of eyeshadow with heavy makeup to increase the intensity of color. In addition, a smudge brush can make the transition of eyeshadow more natural, and it is needed to make the eye makeup more refined regardless of the shade. There are also eyebrow brushes, which can help to create clear and shaped eyebrows in heavy makeup, and depict natural and soft brows in light makeup.   Brand is also an important factor when choosing a beauty brush set. Some well-known brands tend to be more secure in bristle quality, handle design and craftsmanship.   In short, a makeup brush set suitable for heavy and light makeup should be excellent in bristle material, functional diversity and brand quality, so that it can be the right hand of beauty lovers, helping them to easily create the ideal look for different occasions.