Review: Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge

Purchasing the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge was my first venture into the world of using sponges to apply foundation. When this product was released I wasn't drawn to it at all, being too attached to my beloved Buffing Brush, but after reading countless rave reviews I was intrigued. As it only costs £5.99, I ended up giving in to my intrigue and thought I wouldn't waste too much money if I ended up disliking it. 

The Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge is oval shaped, with rounded edges for blending the foundation onto your face in either a dabbing or stippling motion. On one end it has a flat, rounded surface to work to the contours of your face and on the other end is a pointy tip, which is designed for precise application onto blemishes and imperfections. The sponge can be used dry or damp and it is advised to wash the sponge after 2-3 uses.

The Miracle Complexion Sponge's shape and design is just perfect for applying and blending foundation, although the dabbing motion does take a bit more effort than a brush. I personally prefer using the sponge damp as I find it blends out my foundation better. I also think this is key to the finish the sponge can provide - when it's damp my foundation looks so, so natural, fresh and even dewy. I use a high coverage foundation (Vichy Dermablend) and it just seems to sheer it out a little; not so much that I lose lots of coverage but enough so that I feel like I'm wearing a different foundation. Consequently this works perfectly for me on those warmer days when I want to feel like I'm wearing a lighter base but I still crave that coverage. The Miracle Complexion Sponge is also a great product when you're in a rush - I just pop the tip into some more foundation and et voilà, my concealing is done without using a different product or tool. Wonderful.

I'd say the one thing I'm not so keen on with the Miracle Complexion Sponge is cleaning it, especially when it has to be done after only 3 uses. So recently I bought another! Also, the first time I went to clean it was a nightmare - there's no guidance on the box and the dried on foundation just wasn't coming off. I've now found a method that works really well - let the sponge soak in water for a few minutes so it absorbs plenty of the water. Apply your shampoo or soap directly onto the sponge and massage in lightly. Then with the sponge in your palm, squeeze it with your fingers and at the same time run your thumb over the sponge, especially where there is foundation. You should then see the foundation run off the sponge as the excess water comes out. It can take two or three times of doing this to get it thoroughly clean and foundation free.

I bought my first Miracle Complexion Sponge from my local Boots store at full price, but bought my second one online from Amazon (here) as it was a little cheaper.

Are you a fan of using beauty sponges? Have you tried the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge?

Beauty Bird xx