As beauty buffs, there’s no doubt you know you can apply your make-up with a sponge… But what about cleansing with one?
Yep, facial sponges are right up there with the best beauty multi-taskers. They have major skin care benefits, so let’s break down what a facial sponge can do for your complexion.
What is a facial sponge?
A facial sponge complements your daily cleansing routine by maximising the benefits of the other products you’re using.
For best results, simply wet the sponge and apply your cleanser, then use circular motions to exfoliate your skin. This will help to take off make-up, remove impurities and gently scrub skin, leaving it feeling and looking glowy.
What are the different types of facial sponges?
The most common is a sea sponge, which comes in natural or synthetic versions.
Another popular trend from the Asian market is konjac sponges. They are made from the konjac potato, which is 97 per cent water and rich in mineral goodness. We are also starting to see variations of konjac sponges, including ones containing charcoal.
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What are the benefits of facial sponges?
Sponges made with charcoal bamboo magnetically pull dirt and grime from the skin. They help to neutralise and alkaline the skin’s natural pH balance, leaving your face feeling clean and smooth.
Konjac sponges, designed with konjac vegetable fibres, soften when soaked in water for a gentle and effective cleanse or a deep exfoliation. They dry hard to prevent damage and the storage of germs.
Also suitable for sensitive skin types, konjac facial sponges can be used to cleanse skin without over-drying or causing redness.
Sea sponges provide a gentle exfoliation and are ideal for use on the whole body.
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How to care for your facial sponges
Just like any other facial tool, facial sponges need to be looked after properly to ensure no bacteria build-up occurs.
After use, always rinse your sponge well with water to remove any grime, then allow it to dry.
As for shelf life, konjac sponges are made from natural vegetable products so will last between one to three months. With the right care and maintenance, you will get an extra few months out of a sea sponge.
Do you actually need one?
If you’re keen to experiment with skin care tools, facial sponges are a great place to start. They are super gentle on the skin, and perfect for daily exfoliation. Most skin types will benefit from a facial sponge, including sensitive, rosacea-prone and dry skin.
However, if you are looking for a deeper exfoliation, you might not get the results you’re after with a sponge. Try using an electronic cleansing brush or visiting a facialist for an uber-deep cleanse!
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Have you used facial sponges before? Did you know about their skin care benefits?
just started using a Konjac sponge, interesting going to see if it works for me.