Let's first squeeze out the gross secret behind loofahs. Loofahs are dirty. These scrubbers may seem clean because they're holding on to soap, but are often contaminated with harmful germs you're scrubbing onto your body. Just how bad is it to use a loofah? Let's find out.Related: How Often Should You Replace Your Shower Curtain?
Group B StreptococcusPseudomonasEnterococcusXanthomonasKlebsiella (bacteria found in human stool)
"Even a brand new loofah, when exposed to sterile water, can grow pathogenic bacteria," warns Dr. Amanda Derwae, MD, a dermatologist at Integrated Dermatology of Fairfax. Natural loofahs made of gourd are no better either.The second reason any loofah is a bacterial haven is that it never dries. Loofahs are damp after touching wet skin and are usually left to hang in the shower. "One of the biggest mistakes people make is leaving a damp loofah in the shower, which creates the perfect environment for bacteria, mold and yeast to grow," explains Dr. Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD, a dermatologist at RealSelf. "Using a contaminated loofah can introduce these microbes back onto the skin, especially if you have any nicks or open areas, potentially leading to folliculitis or infections."Add in the constant humidity in a bathroom from a steamy shower, and you have a perfect recipe for bacterial growth and possible mold on the loofah. So if you smell mildew or your loofah has taken on a wet sock smell, it's best to throw it out ASAP.Related: Doctor Warns About Pink Slime Bacteria, Mold in Bathroom
Constant scrubbing makes your skin more infection-prone
Loofahs create microtrauma by over-exfoliating skin, explains Dr. Derwae. The rough and vigorous strokes can remove more of the top layer of skin than needs to be removed. This is especially bad for people with sensitive skin or with an existing skin issue, which can make the problem worse and risk infection.Even on normal skin, vigorous scrubbing with a loofah may eventually cause lichenification. As the skin's way to protect itself from constant abrasion, the skin hardens and thickens, leaving you with a wrinkly and leathery appearance.Related: This Common Bedroom Item Could Be Aging Your Skin
Common Mistakes People Make When Using a Loofah
There are better options out there, both for your skin and the environment. Both dermatologists recommend washcloths instead of loofahs for washing your body. They are softer on the skin and are less likely to cause skin irritation and microtears. Though Dr. Derwae warns that washcloths also need to dry completely between uses and be cleaned regularly.Dr. Badreshia-Bansal also vouches for silicone scrubbers, or using your hands to lather in a mild cleanser. "These are less likely to harbor bacteria and infection, and are better suited for preserving the skin’s natural barrier."Up Next:
Related: You Should *Never* Leave This Item in the Shower, Dermatologists Warn
Sources:
Loofah Sponges as Reservoirs and Vehicles in the Transmission of Potentially Pathogenic Bacterial Species to Human Skin. Journal of Clinical Microbiology.Amanda Derwae, MD, dermatologist at Integrated Dermatology of FairfaxSonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD, dermatologist at RealSelf Read More Details
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