Real Techniques Survey Reveals 64% of Women Have Knowingly Used a Dirty Makeup Sponge

Brand launches “Swap Your Sponge” campaign to spotlight the importance of regular sponge replacement

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Real Techniques is calling time on overdue makeup sponge replacements with its “Swap Your Sponge” campaign, following new research revealing that 64% of women have used their makeup sponge knowing it was dirty. The campaign aims to educate beauty lovers on proper sponge care and maintenance while reinforcing one important reminder: even your favorite makeup sponge has an ‘expiration’ date; replace it every 30 days for a flawless finish.

With one sold every four seconds, the iconic orange Miracle Complexion Sponge has earned its place in millions of beauty routines for providing a seamless, dewy and airbrushed finish. But behind the flawless finish are some less-than-flawless sponge habits:*

• Knowing better doesn’t mean swapping sooner: Nearly 80% of women think makeup sponges should be replaced once a month or more, yet 50% haven’t replaced theirs in the last month.
• Holding on until it falls apart: 31% think their makeup sponge should be replaced when it starts falling apart.
• Not ready for its close-up: Nearly 50% would be embarrassed for someone to see the state of their current makeup sponge.
• An attachment that predates the situationship: Nearly 20% say their current makeup sponge is older than their current relationship or situationship.
• Four months and counting: One in five has gone four months or longer without replacing their makeup sponge.

“On social we saw people calling out the ‘ick’ factor of a dirty sponge while admitting they were still using them, and our findings reinforced just how common that behavior is,” said Michael Lyons, General Manager of Real Techniques. “We’re proud to make a sponge makeup artists and beauty lovers swear by, but the reality is a fresh sponge gets a better makeup finish, so ‘Swap Your Sponge’ is about helping people achieve that.”

The award-winning Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge delivers a streak-free, glowy finish at an accessible price — but an old sponge isn’t doing your makeup any favors. To keep the blending seamless and the finish flawless, Real Techniques recommends washing the sponge weekly and swapping monthly when used regularly.

The Miracle Complexion Sponge combines thoughtful design with effortless application, offering:

• A natural, dewy glow: Micro-fine pores deliver smooth, light-to-medium coverage when used damp.
• Flawless blending: Seamlessly blends liquid and cream formulas, from foundation and skin tints to blush and bronzer.
• Three-point precision: A flat edge to apply, rounded sides to blend and a precision tip to conceal and perfect.
• Soft, latex-free foam: 100% vegan and cruelty-free.

Given the prevalence of the ‘expired’ sponge IRL and on social media, “Swap Your Sponge” is being brought to life by more than 300 influencers who can all relate to having a sponge they should have replaced, alongside owned social content and paid media, all designed to encourage proper sponge care and regular replacement.

The Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge is available for $6 at a variety of retailers including Ulta Beauty, Target, Amazon and Walmart. Follow the brand on TikTok @realtechniquesofficial and Instagram @realtechniques, and join the conversation with #SwapYourSponge.

About Real Techniques

Real Techniques makes professional-quality makeup tools accessible to beauty lovers of every skill level. Created in collaboration with leading makeup artists, the brand offers award-winning brushes, sponges and accessories that combine purposeful design with affordable prices to make great makeup application easy. From everyday essentials to tools for the latest techniques, each product is designed to help users get the most out of their favorite makeup. For more information, visit realtechniques.com.

*Talker Research surveyed 500 women ages 25-54 who routinely use a makeup sponge; the survey was conducted online in October 2026.