When it comes to achieving smooth and glowing skin, African beauty secrets have been highly regarded for their effectiveness. Among these hidden gems is the African net sponge, a skincare essential that uses traditional craftsmanship for effective exfoliation and cleansing.
What makes an African exfoliating net sponge so special though and how does it compare to a loofah?
What is An African Net Sponge?
An African net sponge, also known as the African exfoliating net, is a handcrafted shower cleansing tool originating from West Africa. It is made using traditional weaving techniques, creating a net-like structure that is ideal for gentle yet effective exfoliation.
What Are African Net Sponges Made Of
African net sponges are primarily made from the fibers of a plant known as Luffa cylindrica, which is commonly referred to as the “loofah plant.” The plant’s mature fruit is harvested, peeled, and then left to dry in the sun.
Once the fruit is completely dried, it is carefully removed to expose the fibrous skeleton, which is then woven into the characteristic net-like pattern of the African net sponge.
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Top 8 African Net Sponge Benefits
1. Exfoliation
The net-like texture of the African net sponge provides gentle yet effective exfoliation, helping to remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover for a smoother complexion.
2. Improved Circulation
The massaging action increases circulation which can enhance the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells, promoting a healthier complexion and a natural glow.
3. Deep Cleansing
The porous material of the African exfoliating net sponge allows it to effectively cleanse the skin. It helps remove dirt, impurities, and excess oil from the surface, preventing pore congestion and the formation of blemishes.
4. Long, Stretchy Material
Unlike traditional loofahs and bath sponges that are usually a small, fixed shape, African net sponges are long and can be manipulated to scrub hard to reach areas like your lower back.
5. Natural and Eco-Friendly
African net sponges are made from natural plant fibers, making them a sustainable and biodegradable alternative to synthetic exfoliating tools.
6. Versatility
African net sponges are strong enough to exfoliate the body while still gentle enough to be used on the face, making them a versatile, one-stop solution to many beauty needs.
7. Fast Drying
African net sponges dry quickly, a lot faster than regular bath sponges, giving it less change to breed bacteria. It’s best to hang dry an African net sponge after washing. If drying in a machine dryer, make sure to use low heat to not diminish the exfoliating material.
8. Long Lasting
An African exfoliating net sponge can last 1-2 years with proper cleaning and maintenance. It’s recommended to replace your sponge after this time due to the material losing its exfoliating capabilities and harboring bacteria, similar to other bath sponges and loofahs.
The Best African Net Sponges
Shappy African Body Exfoliating Net
JASSINS Long African Net Sponge
Nature by EJN African Net Bath Sponge
Tegeme African Net Sponges With Rope
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African Net Sponge vs. Loofah
While both the African net sponge and the traditional loofah are from the same plant, they have a few differences. The net-like structure of the African net sponge provides a gentler exfoliation experience, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.
On the other hand, loofahs have a coarser texture, offering a deeper exfoliation that may be preferred for those with rougher skin or specific body areas that require extra attention.
In terms of durability, the African exfoliating net is generally known to be more long-lasting. The weaving technique of the material allows them to withstand repeated use without losing their effectiveness. Traditional loofahs, on the other hand, tend to wear out more quickly and may need to be replaced more frequently.
Both African net sponges and loofahs can harbor bacteria and require proper cleaning and maintenance. However, due to its open-net design, the African net sponge tends to dry more quickly, minimizing the risk of bacterial growth.
How To Clean an African Net Sponge
To ensure the longevity and hygiene of your African net sponge, it is important to clean it regularly. After each use, rinse the sponge thoroughly with warm water until there’s no more left over soap. Gently squeeze out excess water and leave it in a well-ventilated area to hang-dry.
You can also throw your African exfoliating net sponge in a washing machine for more thorough cleaning. Just be sure to hang-dry or dry in low heat if using a machine to not ruin its exfoliating capabilities.
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