Are Loofahs Bad for You?

Loofahs can prove dangerous to your skin because they can be a microbe reservoir

Loofahs can prove dangerous to your skin because they can be a microbe reservoir, especially if they hang unused for days or even hours without a good rinse. Loofahs have lots of nooks and corners, and they are very porous. Hence, when you use a loofah to scrub the dead skin cells, those cells get lodged in the nooks and corners, which becomes an ideal place for bacterial growth. The most common microbes found in a loofah include:

• Staphylococcus bacteria
• Streptococcus bacteria
• E coli bacteria
• Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Besides, dermatologists do not suggest the use of loofahs because they can be harsh on the skin. Scrubbing with loofah should be limited to once or twice a week.

Moreover, plastic loofahs can send microscopic bits of microplastic straight into your shower drain and then into the sewage system. Eventually, it pollutes the ocean, which has been a growing concern of our planet.

If you still wish to use loofahs for exfoliation, you should probably follow these steps to prevent bacterial growth:

• Rinse the loofah thoroughly after each use. After rinsing, dry it completely to avoid any water retention.
• Avoid using a loofah for a few days after shaving your leg to prevent bacteria from entering your skin through any cut or nick.
• Never use it on the face or genital area because these areas are quite sensitive.
• Clean it at least once a week by soaking it in a diluted antiseptic solution for 5 minutes and rinse thoroughly with cool water. Finally, dry it out completely before using it.
• Replace the loofah if you notice any mold growth or if it develops any mildew or musty odor. It is recommended to throw natural loofah after every 3-4 weeks. Plastic loofahs can be used for up to 2 weeks.