Using Real Spongebobs For Makeup

One of the things I learned from Fanny Serrano during his lectures at the Cosmetologie event last February was the use of a natural sea sponge or seaweed sponge. Instead the the ubiquitous latex sponges, he prefers this natural alternative when applying makeup to his clients. Even my makeup teacher Sir Lourd Ramos demonstrated the techniques of TV makeup using this kind of sponge.

Fanny narrated that when he was having his vacation in Cebu (if I remember it right), he noted people by the shore collecting something which appeared to be of no importance. He asked them what they were for and he learned that these were being exported as a cosmetic accessory. He examined its appearance and realized that they were similar to the expensive natural sponges that he used to buy abroad and thing is, they actually originate from the Philippines.

I bought 3 sponges during the fair at P60 ($1.20) each. Fanny found a way to order from local sources so they come at a much cheaper price.

Here is my evaluation on the use of the Sea Sponge in Makeup Application:

PROS

• It is a natural product , eliminating dermatologic problems caused by latex materials. In addition, the production of synthetic sponges made of rubber or latex  uses a chemical called mercaptobenzothiozole which triggers dermatitis.


• When moistened, it feels soft on the skin


• Its texture improves skin renewal and blood circulation.


• It allows foundation to be spread evenly. When you are using cake or stick foundation, it lessens the tendency to create a mask-like effect.


• The foundation remains on your face instead of being soaked up in the sponge.


• It can be used to remove makeup.


• It is easy to wash. Have you ever tried washing those synthetic sponges with stubborn makeup stains? They are too difficult to clean that you'd rather throw them away.


• It is more environment friendly. The latex sponges that you keep throwing away are non-biodegradable. With sea sponge, it will take a long time before you will tire of it and they will not harm mother nature when disposed.

CONS

• It needs water. You have to keep a clean bottle of water handy during shoots. Otherwise, a dry sea sponge makes a good exfoliant.


• It requires the right amount of water. Too much of it will transform your makeup session into a bathing experience. The sea sponge absorbs a lot of water inside that you have to squeeze it out before application. It also tends to dry up on the surface fast because the water seeps its way to the core; hence it requires to be dipped often,  only to be squeezed again.


• You can't puff powders using it.


• It is difficult to find in local stores. When Fanny said that these sponges were available at his booth, we rushed before it could run out of stock. I hardly saw these sponges sold at cosmetics counter. Fanny mentioned that these can be bought at his salon after the fair.


• While its biodegradable nature is environment-friendly, too much harvesting of these sea sponges can be a threat to the ecosystem. However, this claim is countered with the fact that sea sponges have the ability to regenerate itself. The people harvesting them should be careful not to detach the base of the sponge to preserve its ability to regrow.

There are other types of sponges such as the polyurethranes which are less likely to cause skin irritations. New non-latex sponges are also coming out in the market. They are washable, biodegradable and affordable. Price starts at $2.50 each, I just don't know where to find them locally. Any tips?

I am glad that I secured my own sea sponges. I love the difference it makes in cosmetic application. I just wished I bought more so I wouldn't have to worry where to purchase them again without going to Manila.