Loofah: How using one could be dangerous for skincare

It's one of the most common mistakes we make in the shower—using a loofah. Read more to find out why loofahs aren't skin-friendly and how to make your own DIY scrub.

Skincare: Why are loofahs gross for your skin
© Juja Han
Skincare: Why are loofahs gross for your skin

After a hard day, there's nothing quite like slipping into a warm bath or shower. You do have a few loved items that you use as part of your self-care regimen, one may undoubtedly be the loofah.

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But, many dermatologists around the world vouch for how bad it is for our daily skincare.Instead of using a loofah, try one of these dermatologist-approved body wash methods.

Loofah’s toxic for skincare

Did you know: loofah can most likely be a ground for breeding bacteria and cause infections?

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Skincare: Why are loofahs gross for your skin Julia Ewan

Doctor Gretchen W. Frieling, MD, a board-certified dermatopathologist in Boston, explained to Real Simple:

Mold can harbour in loofahs and sponges alike, as well as germs, dead skin cells, and remnants of dirt, oil, and grime that we scrub off our bodies.
This can cause infection if washing an open cut, trap bacteria inside your pores, and prevent you from really cleansing yourself from germs.
Skincare: Why are loofahs gross for your skin

Approved body wash agent

Did you know you don’t have to replace your body wash agent at all! Instead, make your own.

Dr. Frieling further noted:

There are a ton of great recipes online for making your own [exfoliating scrub] with salt, essential oils, and your favorite antibacterial body wash.

Quick DIY scrub

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DIY scrub Deb Lindsey For The Washington Post

Ingredients required: brown sugar, coffee, oil

  1. In a mixing basin, combine brown sugar (you can also use ground coffee) and oil
  2. Mix everything together thoroughly
  3. Add one or two drops of your chosen essential oil to the mixture and whisk it
  4. Spoon the scrub into a jar after you're happy with the consistency and aroma

A gentle scrub, after wetting your body, is enough to exfoliate your skin. Avoid a loofah and prevent skin infections. Go,au naturel in the shower!

Showering without using soap can have dangerous consequences to your health Showering without using soap can have dangerous consequences to your health