LATE LAST YEAR, the makeup world was highly confused by the claim that this thing could apply foundation flawlessly:

Instagram / mollycosmetics Instagram / mollycosmetics / mollycosmetics

Looks a bit like a chicken fillet for your bra, right? But no – it’s a special silicone makeup sponge (a chicken fillet for your face).

It went viral late last year thanks to beauty bloggers on the hunt for even better ways to apply foundation – and as always, Penneys have been on the ball.

Silicone sponges have been hitting stores around Ireland over the past few weeks – but are they any cop? Will they change your makeup life? Let’s see.

What is a ‘silicone sponge’ when it’s at home?

The silicone sponge was first created by the indie makeup brand Molly Cosmetics – the idea is that the silicone won’t suck up all of your foundation before it gets on to your face, like regular sponges sometimes do.

So you use less product, it’s easier to clean, and Penneys are now doing a set of two for €2. Sounds good in theory, right?

What’s the application like?

Bloggers naturally rushed to try out the sponges after they were released in November, and the reviews have been mixed.

While they agree that it makes a little bit of product go a long way, they do note that it leaves foundation sitting on top of the skin, rather than buffed in.

However, this YouTuber liked how it blended a cream contour, and this one thought it was great for applying concealer under the eyes, so there are a few possible uses.

So – is it a gimmick or the real deal?

Honestly, a bit of a gimmick. But for €2, it’s no harm to investigate if it works for you – and we’re certainly intrigued to see it in action for ourselves.

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