15 Best Beauty Blender Alternatives in 2023 | The Best Cheap Beauty Blenders
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It wasn’t long ago when the Original Beauty Blender took the makeup world by storm. And shortly after that some of the best Beauty Blender alternatives hit the market. Every makeup fanatic and their bestie was sold on this new makeup applicator. I’ll admit, I too was sold on the hype.
Since then countless beauty blender alternatives have surfaced as competitors. The recent release of Fenty Beauty’s blender by Rihanna called the Precision Makeup Sponge 100 with over 40,000 hearts is an attestation to the fact that this makeup tool is an amazing invention.
But with so many options to choose from, I’ve rounded up the 15 best beauty blender alternatives in 2022. And you know what’s better? These are actually the best cheap beauty blender sponge on the market starting at $3!
No matter how expensive, makeup is only as good as what you use to apply it! Brushes can streak, and using your hands can get blotchy. The answer to these problems is simple: a beauty blender aka makeup blenders!
The Original Beauty Blender is available at Ulta, Sephora, Nordstrom, Amazon
- Get a flawless blend with the award-winning BEAUTYBLENDER ORIGINAL Makeup Sponge. An edgeless, reusable, high-definition cosmetic...
- The exclusive aqua-activated material provides an airbrushed application and absorbs minimal product, so your favorite formula...
- BEAUTYBLENDER ORIGINAL Makeup Sponge is a ten-time Allure Best of Beauty award winner. The unique shape and exclusive material...
- Beautyblender has chosen to use safe, water-soluble dyes that do not harm the environment and will maintain the integrity of their...
- Beautyblender recommends replacing your blender every 3 - 6 months, depending on use. Remember to always wet your Beautyblender...
Last update on 2024-04-18 at 01:51 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
However, if you’re not ready to dish out $20 on an original makeup blender sponge, keep reading. Below are the 15 best beauty blender alternatives and cheapest alternatives that offer the same results and flawless finish. Get the look for less, and find your favorite today:
Last update on 2024-04-18 at 01:51 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
15 Best Beauty Blender Alternatives for Makeup in 2022
1. Real Techniques 6 Miracle Complexion Sponge
It is only fitting that we start off this applicator sponges with the Real Techniques sponge. I’ve lost count of how many ladies who say that this latex-free sponge is a darn good alternative to the original Beauty Blender. And at almost 75% less ($5.99 vs. $20) this makeup sponge is a no-brainer.
2. Aesthetica Makeup Sponge
Up next is the top-rated Aestheitca beauty sponge. This 100% vegan, cruelty-free applicator sponge has been a hit with makeup artists and gurus. As an alternative, the Aestheitca sponge offers multipurpose opportunities.
The round edge of the blender makes for easy and even spreading on the flat portions of your face such as cheeks or forehead, whereas the pointed side can be used for precision. This is one of the best beauty blender alternatives that is perfect for primers, powders, blush, and other beauty products.
Hey! It even cleans easily with soap and water. Plus it is made from a non-latex foam that won’t irritate the skin.
3. E.L.F. Blending Sponge
The E.L.F. Blending Sponge takes the egg-shape a bit further with a curve in the center of this applicator with more options for makeup application. Its best descriptor is that it leaves a flawless, streak-free look when applying powders or foundation.
The design and small handheld grip make for an even and smooth-looking finish to your everyday look. Just dip this product into your make up of choice and dab as needed to get that silky, professional style that usually costs a fortune! And as you would expect, you can also get the combo set with Silicone Blender and Highlighting Sponge Duo!
4. Lamora Premium Blending Sponge
Next up on this list of the best cheap beauty blenders is the Lamora blending sponge. As described, the product is excellent for beginners and pros leaving a streak-free application.
This makeup applicator is available in three options: the Beauty Blender alternative, an angled blender with a flat side, and a slanted sponge. And it rings in at under $8 and ships free with Amazon!
5. EcoTools Makeup Sponge
But before you have your mind made up, it would be worth your time to check out this under $5 makeup sponge, the EcoTools perfecting blender. Contour queens and kings would appreciate the possibilities this sponge offers.
The applicator has the typically rounded bottom for your foundation, but instead of a pointed tip, it includes a cut edge that is absolutely essential for those killer contour lines!
Also, this sponge features an environmentally friendly design. The blender is made from recycled items, and the packaging includes the same ecologically conscious decisions to create not only a fantastic product but one that keeps its carbon footprint down to a minimum.
6. Zenda Naturals Foundation Applicator
Firm when dry, and impressionable when wet this beauty blender adapts to the user’s preferences. The Zenda Naturals blender adds its own spin on the classic beauty blender. Unlike other applicators, this makeup tool claims not to absorb makeup with application.
This feature alone probably adds to the 2,000+ fan review and makes the life of your $6 blender alternative outshine many other makeup sponges. Apply, contour, and perfect with this easy multipurpose makeup foundation applicator!
7. Beakey Makeup Sponge Set
5 individual beauty blenders all for under $10? #YesPlease. Reinvigorate your makeup kit with a complete replacement of old or worn-out brushes or blenders with this #1 Amazon best-seller 5-piece top-rated set.
The Beakey sponge set is an ideal item for anyone with sensitive skin as it is odor-free and allergy-free to prevent any future breakouts. This multi-piece set is indeed a steal! Or check out this great combo set with my favorite brush applicator.
8. Jane Iredale Flocked Sponge
Luxury beauty doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. Check out this Jane Iredale flocked sponge, any fantastic alternative for the OG Beauty Blender, which costs about 75% less! And for those looking for the perfect applicator for their mineral-based powder, look no further.
The Jane Iredale Flocked Sponge packs the flawless blending from an egg-shaped blender and outstanding durability of more expensive sponges into one rectangular-shaped sponge.
Seriously, if properly taken care of this beauty sponge can last for years! Take care of your beauty sponge, and it will take care of you (see makeup sponge applicator care tips below).
9. Studio Pro Precision Sponge
If your favorite part of the beauty blender is its ability to get into those hard to reach or delicate areas, then choose the Studio Pro Precision Sponge! The shape of this applicator offers a rounded edge at the base of the product and a more pointed precision tip.
This feature makes the Studio Pro sponge an excellent tool for difficult areas and touch-ups on the go. Hit those spots like under the eyes or around the nose with near-perfect accuracy thanks to the $4 Studio Pro Precision sponge tips!
10. E.L.F Cosmetic Precision Sponge Trio
Looking for a set of macro, mini, and micro beauty blender alternatives? E.L.F cosmetics has the perfect one for you. This trio of different sized sponges will make precision your forte!
Use the macro sponge for foundation, the mini blender for bronzer and blush, and the micro applicator for a quick fix out and about or for setting your foundation.
Dedicated sponges not only enhance your look but makes the application process a lot smoother for harder to achieve techniques. What’s the perk? You can scoop all three of the makeup sponges ($12) for less than the price of one Beauty Blender sponge ($20).
11. Sigma 3DHD Blender
While yes, this product is on the pricier side of the best beauty blender alternatives, this sponge is worth it! The Sigma 3DHD sponge reinvents the beauty blender with six different sides on one blender, each with its own practical use.
It can contour, spread, prime, finish, and everything in between with a beauty blender that works as hard as you do!
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12. L’Oreal Infallible Blender
Easy to grip, and easy to master, the L’Oreal Infallible Blender was made with an exclusive material that makes it soft and easy to grasp.
You can use this sponge either wet or dry to achieve an even blend that is smooth and professional. The L’ORÉAL Infallible Blend Artist Foundation Blender is available on Ulta and Amazon for a few dollars less.
13. E.L.F. Highlighting and Blending Sponge
Another great find from E.L.F., this beauty blender is specifically designed to highlight and contour like the pros. This is a dual-end makeup sponge has a sculpting edge for highlighting edge, and a sculpting side for blending powders.
Firm but soft, this $3 applicator can create a highlight that positively glows while offering a contour so sharp it can cut glass.
14. Japonesque Kumadori Beauty Sponge
The Kumadori Beauty sponge is not surprisingly one of the top recommended alternatives available in drugstores (Walgreens, anyone?). So this applicator earns a spot on this list of best beauty blender alternatives.
And if you’re looking for a little party on a beauty sponge, the tie-dye design checks that box. Angled and designed for all the beauty gurus out there, this is the beauty blender to master all makeup elements. Blend, touch up, or contour—- this little miracle does it all!
15. NYX Flawless Finish Blending Sponge
As the patron saint of alternatives, NYX yet again delivers with this affordable and high-quality beauty blender! This blending sponge will leave a streak-free finish in its wake as you use every ridge and corner to get the look you desire.
Instead of the egg point, NYX elaborates on that idea with an end that slopes down on a flat edge ideal for a truly iconic contour!
* This list will be incomplete without the mention of Silicone Makeup Sponge! Designed as an alternative to makeup sponges, the silicone makeup applicator offers a non-porous, clear sponge.
- Flawless Makeover: If you want to get the most out of your foundation and want long wear, weightless and flawless make, this...
- Get Rid of Buffy Makeup Brushes: Want to achieve a polished and flawless look and want to get rid of using lots of make brushes...
- Last longer: These silicone makeup sponges last longer than the average beauty blenders.
- How to Use this: Since these silicone makeup applicators don’t absorb the product, you can keep it in rotation until there is...
- Money-Back Guarantee: If you don’t like the quality of our silicone beauty blender, simply return it back and we will refund...
Last update on 2024-04-18 at 02:21 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Check out this 2-for-1 silicone sponge. I’ve never seen it so heavily discounted. However, as a personal preference, I prefer beauty blenders or traditional brushes for makeup application.
In summary, the best beauty blender alternatives are:
- Real Techniques 6 Miracle Complexion Sponge
- Aesthetica Makeup Sponge
- E.L.F. Blending Sponge
- Lamora Premium Blending Beauty Sponge
- EcoTools Makeup Sponge
- Zenda Naturals Foundation Applicator
- Beakey Makeup Sponge Set
- Jane Iredale Flocked Sponge
- Studio Pro Precision Sponge
- E.L.F Cosmetic Precision Sponge Trio
- Sigma 3DHD Blender
- L’Oreal Infallible Blender
- E.L.F. Highlighting and Blending Sponge
- Japonesque Kumadori Beauty Sponge
- NYX Flawless Finish Blending Sponge
Frequently Asked Questions About Beauty Blenders and Beauty Blender Alternatives
Does Ulta sell beauty blender?
The original Beauty Blender was first available on Sephora. Before the original sponges were made available on Ulta.com, the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion sponge was the closest (and more affordable) alternative. As of 2019, Ulta now sells Beauty Blender and continues to sell other beauty blender alternatives.
What to use instead of a beauty blender?
Not a fan of beauty blenders? No worries! You can use an oval makeup brush (this is the one I use), or you can stick to traditional brushes (I use this one). Here are the top 10 brushes under $10 from Amazon.
How often do you change your beauty blender?
As with most makeup applicators, it is recommended that you replace your beauty blender every 3 months (Beautyblender.com). Remember, these are porous sponges that soak up makeup, water, and even dirt and dead skin cells.
Keeping them clean by washing and routine replacement will help reduce the buildup of dead skin cells, small debris, and bacteria growth. So, do beauty blenders expire? Yes and no!
Are you supposed to wet a beauty blender?
Yes…. if you get the Original Beauty Blender. This specific makeup sponge is made from a unique aqua-activated™ foam that creates a smooth blend when the sponge is first dipped in water (source). However, most of the cheap beauty blenders discussed in this post can be used dry or wet as desired.
What can I use to clean my beauty blender?
You can use dish soap, shampoo, or liquid hand soap to clean your makeup sponge. But the key is to rinse it thoroughly. You can also use makeup cleanser or a beauty blender cleansing like this top-rated liquid cleanser made specifically for your applicator.
How to Use a Beauty Blender
- Moisten the beauty sponge with warm or cool water (it is water-activated.
- Squeeze the sponge to remove excess water (you can also use a paper towel).
- Dab the sponge into powder makeup or apply a few drops of foundation at a time.
- Dab the makeup sponge on your face in a bounce method until evenly applied. Use the pointed tip to apply makeup to smaller areas around the eyes, nose, and lips.
- Wash the sponge after use and keep it in an airy place to dry.
For more specifics and to fix makeup mistakes, you’ll find this post helpful.
The Original BeautyBlender at Ulta
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