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If you have even only a mild interest in beauty and skin care, there is a very high chance you have heard of, or even used, a Konjac Sponge. But do you really know what it is or how to use it properly? Don't worry, we've got you covered with everything you need to know.
So, what is a Konjac Sponge?
Konjac (pronounced like "kon-yak") sponges are made from the konjac root - a porous root vegetable that grows in Asia. They look a little bit like a loofah, but as they are made from all natural ingredients they are are not only reducing the need to use plastics and other commonly used materials, but they are also compostable and biodegradable.
They are often infused with other natural ingredients such as clays, charcoal or turmeric, to help further treat skin problems such as dullness and dryness.
It is said that the sponges were originally created as a way to clean baby's skin - as the sponges are very gentle, while still providing cleansing properties, these were considered perfect for gently cleaning the delicate skin of babies.
What's so good about them?
Konjac sponges are extremely gentle, while still exfoliating and leaving your skin feeling smooth and fresh. When dry, they are very hard but after soaking in water for just a few minutes, they become extremely soft and perfect for applying to the delicate skin on your face.
They are the perfect tool for applying cleanser, are amazing at removing make-up and dead skin, and they leave your skin glowing and clean.
As mentioned, they are also compostable and biodegradable meaning that they don't (or at least shouldn't) end up in landfill. Simply remove the string (if your sponge has one) and place it in your regular bin, and then place your konjac sponge in your compost, council green-waste bin, local community compost (if you are lucky enough to have one where you live) or simply throw it in your garden (somewhere where it won't be eaten by any wildlife though).
Who is a konjac sponge good for?
Because konjac sponges are so gentle, they are great for use with all skin types. However, we do always recommend a spot test before use and you should use your best judgement as to weather it's the right product for you. If you have an discomfort or the product doesn't feel right, you should stop use straight away.
We stock konjac sponges from JENTL in Berry, Charcoal and Turmeric. While all are perfect for gentle exfoliating and leave your skin feeling refreshed and glowing, each does offer a slightly different benefit:
Berries are full of rich antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation.
Turmeric is known for its antioxidant, anti-ageing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Charcoal is great for detoxifying the skin and combating bacteria with its antioxidant properties.
How do you use it?
Simply wet your sponge with lukewarm water until it is soft and expanded (it may take a minute or 2 the first time you use it, so you may want to fill a bowl and let it soak to save water), then gently squeeze out excess water by pressing the sponge between your palms (don't ring it out or squeeze too hard as you can damage the sponge). You can then apply a small amount of cleanser or leave it as is, and then gently scrub your face using upward, circular motions. Once you are done, simply rinse the sponge under cold water and hang in a cool, dry place. Don't leave it in the shower or anywhere where it will sit in water - you want to keep it dry when you're not using it.
Your sponge will become solid again once it dries, but all you have to do is repeat the above each time you use it! Each sponge will last you 4 - 6 weeks and can then simply be composted in your compost bin (or via other means, see above).
We have been using these little magical sponges for several months now, and absolutely love them! They are so easy to use and our skin has never looked better (although, we definitely think our clay face masks may also be playing a part there).