Should you use silicone make-up tools for your bridal make-up?

Picture this: it’s your wedding day and it’s time to get you all decked up. You’ve paid a lot of attention (and money) to your outfit, accessories, and make-up, but how much thought did you really put into the health of your skin? You may have chosen one of the best bridal make-up artists you know, but what can truly transform and add a defining edge to your look are the products and tools they use. Traditional brushes can be harsh on your skin, leading to potential skin issues like reintroducing bacteria into the skin along with other problems such as acne and folliculitis. It’s important to avoid these issues cropping up on the day of your wedding by choosing a brush that’s safe and effective. Enter silicone brushes and sponges. 

Essentially, it all comes down to one’s preference, the type of make-up applied, and the desired outcome, but to make it easier for you, we have listed the pros and cons of using silicone make-up tools on your wedding day. 

Advantages

Used for different types of make-up

A silicone sponge can hold the product without absorbing too much of it, thus preventing waste. It is a versatile tool in a make-up artist's kit and is particularly helpful when applying liquid or cream products like foundation and concealer. It provides a smooth and even application with the littlest amount of product.

A very hygienic option

Silicone's low porosity not only keeps it from absorbing too much product but also oil and dirt from your skin, making it a very hygienic tool. Similarly, make-up brushes can retain moisture leading to a rapid production of bacteria, which results in breakouts and other skin problems. Furthermore, having to wash the brushes often causes their bristles to become uneven or worse, fall out. 

This way, silicone brushes are easy to clean and sanitise compared to traditional brushes—an advantage when you’re doing make-up for multiple clients. In addition to being easy to clean, silicone brushes are also durable and long-lasting compared to traditional make-up sponges made from polyurethane foam.

Texture and finish

Some make-up artists prefer traditional brushes as they believe that natural bristles provide a better texture or finish. However, their rough texture can be very harsh and can cause friction and skin irritation. On the other hand, silicone brushes are gentler on the skin and are far more suited to provide a smooth and soft make-up experience. 

Disadvantages

They’re non-porous

The key to flawless make-up is having smooth, moisturised skin that can easily absorb products. Silicone make-up sponges don't absorb products well because they're non-porous, making them tricky to use for basic make-up application. Beauty blenders, non-silicone sponges, make-up brushes, and even your fingers are porous and work better for applying make-up.

Not the best when it comes to blending

Building on the aspect of low porosity, using a silicone brush or sponge will wipe the product off your skin instead of blending it in. Using a porous make-up tool can help fill in your pores and lift off any excess product, giving you a smoother application. Often, you have to go in with more product if you’re looking to cover up certain problem areas on your face, in which case, silicone sponges will slide and sweep the material all over your face instead of seamlessly blending into the skin.

Inputs by Pooja Sawla, Creative Director, Hair for Looks Salon, Mumbai

Lead image credits: Pexels

Also read: Here are the 10 best wedding make-up artists across the country

Also read: On-the-go beauty products for the bridal party