Is Real Techniques’ Miracle Sculpting Sponge heaven sent?

While it might be hard to fathom now, there once was a time when sponge applicators were sold most widely in bulk packages for a couple bucks. Instead of coming in fun colors like hot pink or orange, they were typically white and either wedge-shaped or round. And should you forget (because how could you), they also carried the stigma of being a hotbed for bacteria.

Fast-forward and the sponge applicator market has exploded thanks in part to the beautyblender, a tear-drop shaped sponge that has spawned multiple incarnations. In this week’s Fab or Flub, I’ll review a new sponge from budget-friendly beauty tool brand Real Techniques.

Part of the brand’s Miracles Collection, the Miracle Sculpting Sponge ($5.99, Ulta) is one of three new sponges from the brand and is designed to contour and highlight your favorite facial features. While the sponge is certainly not the flashiest of the collection (that would be the rare diamond-shaped sponge), the Miracle Sculpting Sponge captures its own attention thanks to a very peculiar design.

First impression

Described as a 6-in-1 tool, the Miracle Sculpting Sponge’s unique shape features multiple edges that are either rounded or flat. Each of these edges serves a specific purpose, either to blend or to apply. The sponge’s small flat edge is designed for highlighter application, while the large flat edge is reserved for contouring.

The large and small rounded sides are for blending. And, should you need to tackle those hard-to-reach crevices of the face, the sponge features two tips (large and small). Designed to be used damp or dry, the hot pink sponge should be replaced every one to three months and can be used with powders, creams or liquids.

Fab or flub?

Flub. When it comes makeup application, sometimes simplicity is the best approach. Unfortunately, simplicity is what the Real Techniques Miracle Sculpting Sponge lacks and needs.

A poor substitution for a makeup brush, the sponge’s design is cumbersome and makes applying and blending makeup challenging. Compared to the Hourglass Strobe Light Sculptor (another highlight sponge I previously reviewed), the Miracle Sculpting Sponge is dense and doesn’t work as well with powder products.

The texture of the sponge works better with cream and liquid products, though the results leave a lot to be desired and can result in streaks. As someone who has tried the Real Techniques original Miracle Complexion Sponge (a great affordable dupe for the beautyblender), I’m disappointed that the new sculpting sponge doesn’t live up to its older sibling’s reputation.

This story was originally published September 30, 2016 at 2:29 PM with the headline "Is Real Techniques’ Miracle Sculpting Sponge heaven sent?."