Why konjac sponges are the eco-friendly cleansing tool your skin will love

With an abundance of skincare products on the market, sometimes taking the simpler route is most effective.

Enter the konjac sponge – the eco-friendly tool that gently cleans skin without breaking the bank.

What is a konjac sponge?

Derived from an Asian root plant of the same name, a konjac facial sponge provides a gentle yet deep cleanse in addition to exfoliating the skin.

Not only are they eco-friendly and 100 per cent natural, konjac sponges are also affordable.

“The Australian beauty market has made a huge shift to more sustainable products with a particular focus on vegan and organic ingredients, paired with tools that are equally natural,” beauty industry expert Hayley Mears says.

“This is where the konjac facial sponge has dynamically changed the way we look at facial skin cleansing.

“The sponge is made from an Asian root plant – a potato fibre – and has a unique texture that is ideal for light exfoliation and gentle cleansing.”

How to use a konjac sponge on skin

Beauty therapist Emmylou MacCarthy says she incorporates a konjac sponge into her daily skincare routine.

The sponge removes oil and dirt from the outer epidermis while gently exfoliating away bacteria, which in turn promotes cleaner, clearer skin when used consistently.

The konjac sponge can be used with or without a cleanser, but needs to be soaked in water to ensure it is soft and damp before use.

It’s important to never cleanse the skin with a dry konjac sponge as it’s too brittle and harsh.

Work the sponge in circular motions all over the face before rinsing and gently squeezing out excess water and letting the sponge dry.

While the sponge is suitable for all skin types, Hayley says those with sensitive or temperamental skin might want to steer clear.

“The amount of pressure applied when cleansing with the sponge is key to not over-exfoliating the skin. If you have sensitive skin and want to try a konjac sponge, always treat the skin with a moisturiser after cleansing,” she says.

Different types of konjac sponges

As well as standard konjac facial sponges, some are infused with active ingredients that provide additional benefits.

Among them is the charcoal konjac sponge, which are said to contain detoxifying properties and be more porous to better absorb oils and dirt.

Other sponges are infused with green tea, pink clay and red clay oil.

Cleaning konjac sponges

Due to their absorbent nature, sponges can become a breeding ground for bacteria if not properly cleansed and regularly replaced.

It is important to keep the sponge dry when not in use, so drain excess moisture after each clean and then hang it in a well-ventilated area so it dries quicker.

It’s also recommended that you sanitise the sponge in boiling water once a week.

Konjac sponges generally need to be replaced monthly.

Written by Charlotte Brundrett.

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