Wet Before Use To get the most out of your sponge, always wet it before use, squeezing the moisture out so it's damp, but not sopping wet. This will ensure that the foundation is applied and distributed evenly.
I like to use brushes for application when I want to focus on a detail area, or when I want to use a sheer finish and give a wash over the skin. If the skin is really dry, I only use damp brushes when applying. Generally speaking, sponges can give more coverage, while brushes can be more sheer.”
Many dermatologists recommend soaking brushes, especially those used to apply foundation and concealer, once a week to prevent product buildup.
A dry brush is used to remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. That is done by moving the brush over the skin in specific motions. Dry brushing, as the term suggests, does not require the use of water. It's done using a completely dry brush on dry skin.
Avoid getting water above the handle of the brush, which can loosen the glue over time and eventually lead to shedding bristles and ultimately, a ruined brush.
Fingers are best for a quick and natural application; sponges are good for achieving a flawless finish; and brushes are ideal for full coverage.
Remember, there's no “best way” to apply your foundation, as both application techniques have their perks and unique touch. Applying foundation with a brush achieves flawless coverage and a precise, even finish. When you apply foundation with fingers, you tend to get a more natural effect that mimics your skin.
If they're applied incorrectly and with the wrong brushes, however, they can leave behind unflattering brush stroke streaks. And believe us, no one wants to be walking around with bristle imprints all over their cheeks, eyes or face.
To protect your skin and kill any harmful bacteria that lingers in your makeup brushes, it's a good idea to wash your brushes every 7 to 10 days.
Applying foundation first creates an even base to reduce overall redness, discoloration and minor blemishes. If you apply your concealer first, you may end up wiping some off when you apply foundation or using a lot more product than necessary, which can create a heavy, cakey look.
Dry exfoliating is considered to have more benefits because the removal of dirt and dead cells is more efficient when the skin is dry. Water pumps up the skin, which makes wet brushing a bit less effective.
A wet brush is designed to be used in both wet and dry hair, which is why it is an excellent and particularly gentle brush that does not cause unnecessary wear and tear to the hair.
A makeup sponge gives the most skin-like finish and pushes the product into the complexion, the foundation doesn't sit on top so it appears more seamless and natural. You can really beautifully build-up and blend the product from sheer to full-coverage, but you have to use a clean sponge!
How Often To Clean Makeup Brushes. For brushes used frequently with liquid formulas like foundation and concealer, you might be surprised: These should really be cleaned once a week. For other brushes used for powder blush and eye shadow, once every two weeks is preferable.
To Clean Your Makeup Brushes
Pour micellar water into a bowl or saturate a cotton pad and press against the bristles of your brushes. Avoid the metal part as this can damage your makeup brushes. Doing this can easily remove some of the gunk that accumulates on your makeup brushes.
Instead of letting the brushes dry standing up or laying flat, hang them upside down for at least four hours. Gravity will help all of the moisture to properly evaporate and preserve the shape of the bristles.
There are a few things that make Wet Brush special. First, the bristles are designed to be extra-soft and gentle on hair, which helps minimize breakage and split ends. Second, the brush has a unique “ open” design that allows water to flow through the bristles more easily, helping to remove tangles with less effort.
Most experts recommend dry brushing in the morning rather than before bed because they believe it has invigorating qualities. Some people use the brush on its own; others put a bit of body oil on the brush before they use it.
Ovation Wet-Dry Brush - Gently Glides through wet hair, taming tangles and smoothing out knots. Flexible bristles help minimize breakage. Made in the USA.