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Welcome to Skimm Tested, a series where we put viral products to the test and give you our honest, unfiltered reviews.
What We Tested
Real Techniques’ Makeupsaver Blending Sponge, ($8.99)
Why Margo Tested…
Test Results…
Minimal absorption. The brand claims that this product absorbs 90% less water-based makeup than traditional sponges, and I can attest that it definitely did not absorb as much as my Beautyblender does. If you’re looking for higher coverage or want to use a more expensive product sparingly, this sponge gets the job done. That said, blending using this sponge took more effort. The brand also says not to dampen this sponge, which feels a little strange to me.
Price. At $8.99, this is steeper in price for a single makeup sponge compared to other Amazon multipacks. But at the same time, it still is cheaper than the popular $20 Beautyblender. TLDR, I think this product is great for anyone who wants higher coverage or likes to keep a lot of tools on hand. In my opinion, this accomplishes the exact same as a regular foundation brush.
Versatility. Just like other makeup sponges, I used this one with blush, foundation, tinted moisturizer, and concealer. I loved the angled edge for getting into crevices around my eyes and nose. While it worked great with my base products for even application, I didn’t love it for blush. A traditional sponge you can get wet works better to diffuse blush.
Why Alexandra Tested…
Test Results
Beginner-friendly nature. I'm not a makeup pro and I used this sponge with complexion products. It was easy to use, so good for more novice makeup wearers.
Design. The textured side does mimic a fingerprint and passes product better than a traditional sponge. I can't say with 100% certainty that it blends better than a sponge, but it does a decent job. Be sure to turn it to the nontextured side to continue blending your makeup once applied. Also, because it’s darker in color, it hasn’t gotten as dirty as my other sponges have.
Gifting quality. Because the design is unique, this would make an affordable, yet fun stocking stuffer or gift for the beauty-obsessed.
Sidenotes…
This sponge has an angled edge with a fingerprint-like texture to help absorb less product and blend makeup.
Unlike traditional makeup sponges, you are not meant to dampen it before application.
The different angles mean you can seamlessly apply product to large surface areas or hard-to-reach crevices near the nose and eyes.
To clean, wipe the textured side with a damp cloth.
Our editors wish this product was more readily available, as it cannot be purchased at our go-to spots like Amazon and Sephora.
The Fine Details…
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