Loofahs are available at most stores that sell body care accessories, including drugstores. Loofahs are different from plastic bath poufs; the two items are used for the same purpose, but loofahs are made from a plant-based material and are said to be better for the skin.

Care should be used around delicate areas such as underarms. If your skin is dry, rinse the soap out of the loofah before using it on your arms and legs. Additionally, you can use the loofah on the heels and soles of your feet. Be careful if standing in a slippery shower. The circular motion will help remove dead skin cells and is gentler on your skin than scrubbing up and down.

Placing it near a vent or fan can also help it dry out quickly. Since many bathrooms stay humid, you might want to dry the loofah in a different room.

Dermatologists have recently found that loofahs tend to harbor more bacteria than previously thought. That’s why it’s important to sanitize your loofah often. [2] X Research source The same holds true for plastic bath poufs. Even though they aren’t made from natural materials, they can still harbor bacteria.

Many people have recently switched to using washcloths, since they’re easier to run through the washer and they last much longer than loofahs. If you decide to stick with loofahs, make sure you dry them properly after each use and replace them frequently to keep your body healthy.