Do You Own A Moldy Beautyblender? Here's Why The Popular Makeup Sponge Is Raising Concerns On Social Media

The popular $20 dollar sponge has raised some concerns over mold after women on TikTok shared their findings on the product. One woman, @gabbyburgoss99, garnered over half a million views after she found mold on her Beautyblender. "This is a PSA for all my ladies," she says, "any girl who is watching this, please stop everything you're doing and watch this video right now. Especially if you do your makeup every day and especially if you use Beautyblenders."

The TikToker says she came across one video of a woman who works at a naturopathic office who informed her audience of the one thing she'd never have in her house: a Beautyblender. "I have one, like, why not?" @gabbyburgos99 wondered. Well, as it turns out, the makeup sponge is actually a "huge recipe" for mold production! This influenced @gabbyburgos99 to find out whether or not it was true. She washed her Beautyblender to rid it of impurities, that way she can see what the sponge actually looks like underneath all of the makeup. What she found was a discolored sponge that was green at the tip. "That is mold!" she exclaimed. 

Another woman, @sadovskaya_doctor, uploaded a video of her throwing away her makeup sponge with the caption, "POV: you found out that no matter how often you clean your Beautyblender it builds up mold that you rub all over your face." 

But what’s the truth? Why does the makeup sponge seem to produce mold, and does this mean you have to use a different product? 

Beautyblenders and Mold: Here’s How it Works 

Sponges are the ideal environment for mold to grow and live in. Since the makeup sponges are often rinsed, it usually stays moist and humid. When moisture accumulates on surfaces that are porous – like the Beautyblender, for example – mold easily forms. But don’t be alarmed just yet! This doesn’t mean your favorite makeup product is guaranteed to have mold, especially if you wash or replace it often. Plus, there's a way to keep your Beautyblender clean. The best way to prevent a dirty makeup sponge is to wash and dry it frequently, at least once a week. The better you take care of it by cleansing it of impurities, the longer it will last (anywhere from one to three months). 

Luckily, washing your sponge is super easy and not time-consuming at all. Just wet your sponge, add some soap, rinse thoroughly, and dry! However, make sure the spot you're leaving your Beautyblender to dry in gets circulation, as keeping it in a closed space will increase the production of mildew.

Are Brushes Better? 

Unwashed brushes are also the perfect environment for mold and bacteria. Actually, all used makeup products get dirty! One study by the Journal of Applied Microbiology found that 70% to 90% of all cosmetic products – from lipstick to eyeliners, mascaras, and Beautyblenders – were contaminated with bacteria. With that being said, all applicators should be washed and dried frequently, and cosmetic items should be replaced after frequent use.

Closing Thoughts

The best course of action isn’t necessarily to part ways forever with your Beautyblender or other makeup brushes. If you want to avoid breakouts or allergic reactions from mold, cleaning your applicators and drying them properly is a must. After all, you don’t just want clear skin after putting on your foundation! The best formula for a flawless base is good hygiene and a healthy lifestyle. 

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