Which technique is commonly used to achieve a soft and natural makeup appearance?

The stippling method with a makeup sponge is highly effective for achieving a soft and natural makeup appearance because it allows for the even distribution of product while maintaining a light coverage. This technique involves lightly dabbing the sponge onto the skin, which helps to blend the makeup seamlessly and create a more diffused and skin-like finish.

When using a sponge in this way, it minimizes the risk of heavy application, leading to a more understated look that enhances the natural beauty of the skin rather than masking it. The stippling motion helps to blur imperfections while allowing some of the skin's texture and tone to show through, which is key for that natural aesthetic.

In contrast, airbrushing generally provides a more polished and full-coverage finish, which may not align with the goal of a soft, natural look. Layering with creams can also result in a heavier finish if not done carefully, and direct painting with brushes often tends to apply a more defined and sometimes heavier application of makeup, which would not yield the same airy effect that stippling can achieve.