Are makeup brushes more hygienic than sponges?

Author: Giovanni Gibson III  |  Last update: Sunday, January 11, 2026

Makeup brushes are more expensive than sponges so they are a bit of an investment, but they will last you much longer and they are easier to clean (and more hygienic!) Sponges can be good, if not a little tricky!

Is it better to use a makeup brush or sponge?

If you want more coverage while saving more of your products each application, a makeup brush is the way to go. However, if coverage isn't your concern and you're all about that no-makeup makeup look, going with a sponge is the best decision. At the end of the day, it's all up to preference.

Which is more hygienic brush or sponge?

We conclude that brushes are more hygienic than sponges and that their use should be encouraged. Contaminated sponges or brushes should be replaced or cleaned when they may have been in contact with pathogenic microorganisms, e.g. used on raw food spills.

Are brushes more hygienic than beauty blenders?

In general, beauty blenders can contain more bacteria than foundation brushes due to their porous nature and moisture retention. However, both tools require regular cleaning to minimize bacterial growth. If hygiene is a major concern, consider using disposable applicators or cleaning your tools more frequently.

Are makeup sponges hygienic?

Basically sponges tend to harbour a lot of product, dirt and bacteria due to the way it is structured, and is next to impossible to fully clean and sanitise; as a result you should never share beauty sponges, wash them before and after each use, and replace them regularly.

CLEAN MAKEUP BRUSHES & SPONGES WITH ALCOHOL & DISH DETERGENT | FASTEST WAY TO CLEAN MAKEUP BRUSHES

Do makeup brushes hold bacteria?

In addition to collecting product residue, dirt and oil, makeup brushes are a breeding ground for bacteria. This could compromise your complexion — in the form of acne breakouts and rashes — as well as your health. Dirty makeup brushes can cause an infection, such as a fungal infection, E.

What is the most hygienic sponge?

Unlike cellulose dish sponges, the Skura Style sponge is made of a patented, super-absorbent polyurethane foam that never gets stinky. For real. It's all thanks to an antimicrobial agent in the foam that staves off gross sponge smells and prevents the growth of odor-causing bacteria, mildew, and mold.

How do makeup artists sanitize their brushes?

For synthetic brushes, like lip and concealer brushes, I use hand sanitizer on them after each use.” Beau Nelson: “I clean my brushes using the Beautyblender Solid Blendercleanser for natural hair brushes, which is great for me because it's portable, and I can take it anywhere without it leaking all over the place.

Why brush is better than sponge?

HYGIENE: Say goodbye to bacteria-infested sponges. The porous nature of sponges makes them prone to trapping and retaining bacteria, mold, and unpleasant odors. A Dish Brush provides a cleaner, more hygienic dishwashing experience, ensuring your kitchen remains a haven of cleanliness!

What is the most sanitary way to store makeup brushes?

When it comes to storing your makeup brushes correctly, the best way to do so is to store them upright in a container or inside a drawer. Generally, it's not a good idea to store your makeup brushes loosely in a makeup bag as it can spread bacteria and germs and cause damage to them.

What is more sanitary than a sponge?

Dish brushes are a more hygienic option for clearning dishes.

Why is a dishcloth not the best practice in a kitchen?

Surveys have found that dish cloths used in commercial kitchens have high bacteria levels, including E. coli. When combined with limited hygiene knowledge this can lead to the spread of food borne illness. Cloths used for wiping food preparation surfaces become soiled very quickly.

Is it better to apply foundation with fingers or brushes?

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.

How many times should you use a makeup sponge?

On average, a good quality makeup sponge can last anywhere from 3 to 6 months with proper care and maintenance. However, the exact lifespan can vary depending on several factors: Usage frequency: Sponges used daily or very often will need to be replaced more frequently, around every 3 months or so.

Do you put concealer or foundation first?

The final takeaway? Apply foundation before concealer when you only want to cover up any minor skin imperfections. The concealer aka colour corrector goes before the foundation if you want to hide stubborn marks or dark circles. Then a layer of your foundation followed by a concealer that is true to your skin tone.

Should I use a makeup brush or sponge?

"For me, it's all in the finish I'm trying to achieve," Sprinkle tells InStyle. For example, if you want precision, a sharp makeup brush is your best bet. On the other hand, if you want to have a super-even blend, Sprinkle recommends using a makeup sponge.

Should I brush or floss first?

Regular flossing may also reduce gum disease and bad breath by removing plaque that forms along the gum line. It's best to floss before brushing your teeth.

What's more hygienic beauty blender or brush?

Makeup brushes are more expensive than sponges so they are a bit of an investment, but they will last you much longer and they are easier to clean (and more hygienic!)

What kills bacteria on makeup brushes?

After you've cleansed your brushes, to further disinfect and ensure they are thoroughly sterilised, you can also spray the rubbing alcohol or 70% isopropyl alcohol over the bristles.

How do makeup artists keep things sanitary?

Before makeup application always spray your products with cosmetic sanitizer mist and organize your kit before each client and make sure the products and tools are clean and sanitary (it's a great extra step to also give your clients peace of mind if they visually see you sanitizing your workspace and tools in the ...

Are makeup brushes sanitary?

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.

What is the best sponge to avoid bacteria?

Forever Sponge is made with three highly antimicrobial materials, making it a germ-fighting machine! It's constructed using a blend of polyethylene, polyurethane, and spandex; all of which individually have antimicrobial properties.

Are brushes better than sponges?

That's because kitchen sponges collect bits of food and stay wet, which is a breeding ground for bacteria. Brushes, on the other hand, dry faster and hold less food, which makes them 2.5x less likely to harbour any yuckiness.

What is the best makeup sponge?

BeautyblenderORIGINAL Beautyblender Makeup Sponge

One of the best beauty sponges I've ever used. What it is: A top-selling makeup sponge, the super-soft, exclusive, latex-free foam quickly blends makeup for an easy application and flawless, skin-like finish.

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