30 of These $7 Makeup Sponges Are Sold Every Minute

The Miracle Complexion Makeup Sponge is the secret to flawless foundation. Your skin will thank you later.

If you’re a fan of achieving a dewy, flawless makeup look (and who isn’t?), there’s one beauty gadget to keep in your routine. And no, it’s not a makeup brush or primer—although they’re certainly essential makeup tools too.

We’re talking about the Miracle Complexion Makeup Sponge by Real Techniques. Often compared to the cult-favorite makeup sponge, the Beautyblender, this tool is a powerful blending agent that will help you achieve flawless, dewy skin every. single. time. As an everyday user of this makeup sponge, I love how it gently glides foundation onto my skin. I’ve never gone back to my old ways of applying makeup with a brush after discovering this beauty wonder a few years ago. Here’s everything you need to know about the Miracle Complexion Makeup Sponge.

What is the Miracle Complexion Makeup Sponge?

Miracle Complexion Makeup SpongeMadi Koetting/rd.com

The Miracle Complexion Makeup Sponge is an orange, palm-sized makeup gadget that feels just like a regular sponge. It’s an affordable alternative to the Beautyblender, but don’t be fooled—this tool is just as mighty (if not better).

While I loved my Beautyblender, I constantly found myself needing to purchase a fresh one after a few months, no matter how much I cleaned it. (I have sensitive skin, so having a fresh one of these babies on hand every few months is ideal.) And I couldn’t justify paying more than $20 every time I needed a new one.

So when I discovered this $7 makeup sponge, I knew I’d met my match. Not only does it apply makeup without leaving streaks or absorbing too much product, it lasts several months without getting smelly or mildewy. Even the experts say using a makeup sponge is the best way to apply foundation and concealer. Plus, makeup artists say one of the best makeup for dry skin techniques is applying foundation or concealer with a makeup sponge, not a brush. I’m not the only one who’s obsessed with this beauty gadget. It’s garnered more than 20,000 ratings on Amazon too.

Product features

  • Foam, sponge-like material
  • Sharp edges and angles for applying makeup in hard to reach areas
  • Latex-free
  • Vegan and cruelty-free

How to use a Miracle Complexion Makeup Sponge

Before putting this baby to work, the makeup sponge must be rinsed with water. Though the brand notes it’s still functional when used dry, some Amazon reviewers have found that it absorbs all their foundation when used dry, making for spotty, uneven coverage.

Once it’s rinsed and all the excess water has been squeezed out, apply a dot of liquid foundation to your wrist and dab the makeup sponge in the product. Then, apply it to your skin. All it takes is a few dabs in all the right places, and voila! Flawless, even foundation.

Store it in a well-ventilated area when you’re finished using. I like keeping mine uncovered on a decorative tray near my makeup counter.

The best Amazon user reviews

More than 4,500 Amazon reviewers give this makeup sponge a five-star rating. Here’s what they have to say:

“I’ve tried real Beautyblenders, and I’ve tried cheap imitators,” writes one verified Amazon purchaser. “I bought this set from Real Techniques, and I’m so glad I did. They are GREAT. I use one damp and one dry during my makeup routine, so a two pack for this price that works great makes me a happy girl. When used damp, foundation goes on soft, airy, and even. I use it with a buildable foundation, and it keeps it from going on cakey and thick.”

Verified Amazon purchaser Cort shares, “The Real Techniques makeup sponge works very well and is easy to clean. The shape is perfect (orange version). I like that these come in a two-pack so that I always have a backup when one reaches the end of its life.”

Another happy Amazon shopper adds, “Absolutely love this sponge!! My makeup went on flawlessly. No streaks, no lines, it blended perfect. I will be choosing subscribe and save next time because I never want to be without.”

Where to buy

Real Techniques Sponge+ Miracle Complexion Spongevia merchant

The Miracle Complexion Makeup Sponge by Real Techniques is available on Amazon, Target, Walmart, and Ulta for $7-9. We recommend snagging this beauty must-have from Amazon, where a two-pack of makeup sponges goes for just $9!

Shop Now

Madi Koetting
As Product Reviews Home Editor, Madi is an expert at helping Reader's Digest readers find everyday household products to level up their life. She covers everything from Instagram-famous products to the internet’s best deals and discounts. When she’s not deep in a story, you can find her honing her at-home mixology skills and scouring TikTok for the next trendy product.