Buzz
There’s nothing more refreshing than stepping into a warm bath or shower after a tiring day. While you likely have some favorite products in your shower caddy to nourish your skin and calm your mind, one item you might be using could be doing more harm than good—your loofah.
Loofahs are infamous for being bad for your skin and can lead to some alarming infections. Keep reading to learn why using a loofah in the shower isn’t recommended—and discover better alternatives. We also share tips on cleaning and disposing of your loofah for those who still love it.
What exactly is a loofah?
A true, all-natural loofah is a bath product made from a dried tropical gourd. Some loofahs, however, are made from synthetic materials like plastic. Typically, a loofah sponge is used to cleanse and exfoliate the skin. It’s unclear exactly when the loofah became a popular bathing tool, but its use seemed to rise in popularity during the early 20th century.
Shelf Life
Even with your best efforts to maintain a clean and germ-free loofah, you’ll need to replace it periodically. Frieling recommends buying loofahs in bulk and swapping them out as often as possible (at least every couple of weeks for a natural loofah and every few months for a synthetic one). However, keep an eye out for signs of mold growth. If you notice any spots or detect an unpleasant odor, it's time to replace the loofah—even if it's only been a few days.
Cons of Using a Loofah
The primary reason to avoid using a loofah is its lack of cleanliness. An organic loofah is made of a natural, fibrous material that, while effective for scrubbing, also provides an ideal environment for bacteria to grow. Dermatopathologist Gretchen W. Frieling, MD, explains that while synthetic loofahs take longer to harbor bacteria, they too can become breeding grounds for germs.
"Mold, bacteria, dead skin cells, and leftover dirt, oil, and grime can accumulate in loofahs and sponges," says Frieling. "This can lead to infections when used on open cuts, trap bacteria in your pores, and prevent you from effectively cleansing your skin from germs."
Loofahs are not very eco-friendly, and maintaining them properly can be expensive. If you choose to keep one as part of your bathing routine, you’ll need to replace it frequently, which adds to the waste in your local landfill.
How to Maintain a Loofah
While some people may be hesitant to throw away their cherished loofah, there are ways to keep it relatively free of germs. Try these methods to extend the life of your loofah, but remember that the material naturally attracts bacteria.
Cleaning
After each use, rinse your loofah thoroughly and dry it with a clean towel. Hang it in a cool, dry place to allow it to air-dry completely. Once a week, wash it to remove soap and skin debris. You can clean it in a dishwasher or soak it in a water and bleach solution.
Boiling
Another method for cleaning a loofah is boiling it. "You can boil your loofah after each use," suggests Frieling. "However, bacteria may still cling to it as it dries from boiling. This approach likely isn't sustainable."
Loofah Alternatives to Consider
If you choose to stop using a loofah, consider using an exfoliating cleanser with alternative tools. Here’s the good news in the loofah debate: you don’t have to replace your tool at all. Start with your hands or opt for a tool that's simpler to keep clean.
Hands
Frieling suggests that you can save both money and your skin by opting for your hands instead of a loofah. "Our hands are the most accessible tools," Frieling points out. "They’re easy to clean, and when washed properly before using your favorite bath product, you’re at less risk than if you were using sponges or loofahs."
Soft Bristle Brushes and Washcloths
If you feel the need to scrub with a tool, Frieling recommends a medium-soft bristle shower brush. "They’re a better option since they can be cleaned more effectively with hydrogen peroxide and alcohol," Frieling explains. "Just make sure to avoid leaving it in a damp and poorly ventilated shower."
Washcloths are another favorite, approved by doctors—but only if they’re washed after every use (which may be inconvenient). Consider hand-washing your washcloth after each use and letting it dry in a well-ventilated area.
Silicone Body Scrubber
A silicone body scrubber offers another effective alternative to the loofah. Silicone is simpler to clean and doesn’t foster bacteria growth like a loofah, making it a more sustainable choice. The flexible bristles are also gentle on sensitive skin and can help reach difficult areas for better exfoliation.
Exfoliating Cleansers
You can also exfoliate your skin with cleansers instead of using a tool. "Loofahs aren't your only exfoliating option," says Frieling, noting that beauty supply stores are filled with numerous exfoliating alternatives. The best options to look for are natural scrub soaps and body washes that do not contain microbeads.
"Microbeads cause harm to the environment," Frieling points out. "There are many excellent recipes online for creating your own exfoliating scrub using salt, essential oils, and your favorite anti-bacterial body wash."
