Loofah
Loofah (or luufa) is a tropical and subtropical plant of the cucurbits family. Its gourd-like fruit becomes very fibrous when fully ripened and these fibres are used to make loofah sponges. Loofahs are famous for exfoliating the skin while stimulating blood circulation.
Loofah must be used no more than twice a week, and always gently on the skin, as it can become abrasive if used too harshly. Never use it on your face, genital area, or after shaving.
Avoid the synthetic versions as they are made of plastic, creating microplastics that end up in the waterways and the ocean and they are neither biodegradable nor recyclable.
Go for the 100% natural and organic ones made only of all-natural, plant-based fibres and ingredients.
| Brand name | Product description |
| Annapolis Valley | Luffa |
| Be Better | Loofah Sponge |
| Earth Thanks | Natural Egyptian Loofah |
| Etee | Natural Loofah |
Pumice stone
Pumice stone is a mix of lava and water that hardens when it cools down, thus creating a light rock with a porous texture. It is used for exfoliation, as it removes dry, dead skin and calluses. Despite being natural, pumice stones must be used gently and only on areas with thinker skin like knees, elbows and feet (not on your face or body).
To use a pumice stone properly, just follow these 5 easy steps:
– Soak your skin in warm water to soften it.
– Wet the stone.
– Gently rub it on the area, using circular motions.
– Rinse off the dead skin and repeat the operation until you are satisfied with the result.
– Dry and moisturize the area.
| Brand name | Product description |
| Beauty by Earth | Lava Exfoliating Pumice Stone |
| Éco & Éco | Canadian Pumice Stone |
| Pumice Valley | Natural Earth Lava Pumice Stone Black |
| Rocky Mountain Soap Company | Pumice stone |
Tips
It is crucial to clean your loofah properly in order to prevent the development of bacteria.
After each use, dry the loofah sponge with a dry towel to thoroughly wring out moisture. Then put it in a cool, dry place outside of your bathroom.
On a weekly basis, give your loofah a real wash. You can soak it in a mixture of warm water (1 cup) and baking soda (1 tablespoon) for 15 minutes and let it air dry in a ventilated area. You can also put it in the washing machine, using a mild or gentle cycle and let it dry naturally (do not put it in the dryer as the fibres will be damaged). Change your loofah every three to four weeks.
Tips
To ensure your pumice stone’s efficiency and hygiene in the long run, it is important to clean it after every use.
Under running water, scrub dead skin off the stone with a brush. Apply a small amount of soap to make sure it’s clean and free of any dirt (bacteria can grow on the surface). Allow the stone to dry on its own. Set it in a dry area away from moisture to prevent bacteria growth. Every now and then, go for a deep cleaning: boil your pumice stone in hot water for five minutes, then allow it to air dry away from damp areas.