A loofah is a shower accessory used for cleaning and exfoliating the skin. It is made from the fibrous, sponge-like structure that remains when the mature fruit of the Luffa aegyptiaca plant is allowed to dry. Loofahs are used for:
- Lathering up and cleansing the skin with soap
- Exfoliating the skin on the body and face
- Stimulating blood circulation while showering or bathing
- Scrubbing tiles, showers, sinks, and other hard-to-clean surfaces
Natural loofahs are made from the Luffa aegyptiaca plant and are deep green dry gourds that contain a large network of fibers in a tubular pattern inside a thick outer skin. They are sustainable and can be composted when no longer in use. Synthetic loofahs, on the other hand, are made of colorful synthetic materials that are gathered into looped sections of mesh to create a fluffy ball.
Using a loofah can exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells, but it can also harbor bacteria if not properly cared for. It is recommended to replace loofahs and poufs every 2-3 months and to discard them if there is a smell, mold growth, or change in color before that time frame.
Some loofahs are made from natural and organic ingredients, making them safe and comfortable to use.
