The Konjac Sponges We Love
The Konjac Sponges We Love

The Konjac Sponges We Love

There might be some pretty advanced and sophisticated beauty tools on the market these days, but that doesn’t mean that the simple things can’t be effective. Konjac sponges gently cleanse and exfoliate for visibly radiant results – all while being incredibly sustainable and affordable. Here’s what you need to know, plus some of our favourites worth trying.
By Sapna Rao
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Photography: CULT BEAUTY/HONEST BEAUTY

All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however we may make commission on some products.

What They Are & How To Use Them…

Made from the konjac root – a porous root vegetable that grows in Asia – these sponges are almost entirely natural, which is what makes them so gentle and suitable for all skin types. Originally designed to clean babies’ skin, they’re a great tool for eradicating dry bumps without causing irritation. Start by soaking the sponge for 10-20 minutes (especially if it's your first time) then give it a squeeze to release excess water before adding your favourite cleanser. From there, use the sponge to gently buff your face or body in circular motions. Once finished, rinse the sponge and hang it to air-dry overnight.

Don’t just use them to remove your make-up – they also work to clean and exfoliate your body. Use them all over, focusing on areas that may be acne-prone and need an extra deep clean – like the back and shoulders. They’re brilliant for exfoliating before applying self-tan, too. Thanks to the chemical-free design, they don’t interfere with tanning agents like other scrubs, either.

 

START BY SOAKING the sponge for 10-20 minutes (especially if it's your first time) then give it a squeeze to release excess water before adding your favourite CLEANSER.

 

A Few Interesting Facts…

Different coloured sponges usually signify different ingredients or benefits. Typically, dark grey sponges contain charcoal to exfoliate, while green contains green tea or clay for antioxidant purposes. White sponges may include kaolin clay to feed the skin with extra hydration. Additionally, due to their 100% biodegradable nature, konjac sponges can be composted along with your other veggies and plants. Once you’ve finished, don’t just bin them – make the most of their eco-friendly benefits.

Because they’re made from these natural materials, they gradually biodegrade over time, and are therefore wholly sustainable. It’s important to note however, they are not self-cleaning, so they do have a shelf life – even when washed religiously. While they’re estimated to last for six weeks, make sure you replace them once you see signs of fraying or tears. 

Shop The Sponges We Love

Gentle Konjac Sponge, £11 | Honest Beauty

Hard working yet gentle, this soft sponge has been designed with sensitive skin in mind. Not only does it help to balance out your skin’s pH (thus keeping inflammation at bay), it also has in-built kaolin clay to get rid of dead skin cells. Use it with your go-to cleanser, or on its own with water for a gentle cleanse. It’ll leave skin feeling supple and soft – just remember to rinse it out thoroughly and hang-dry it in a cool, ventilated area.

Available at CultBeauty.co.uk

Facial Sponge, £9.99 | The Korean Konjac

This is one of the best brands for konjac sponges. Our favourite is the ‘Bamboo Charcoal’ sponge which is great for exfoliation. It also boosts blood flow – so don’t be alarmed if you have mild redness after using it – and lifts away residue, grime and excess oil. A must-try for those with congested, oily or blemish-prone skin, the charcoal keeps excess oil and sebum at bay, while minimising acne-causing bacteria. Experts also recommend using it on the legs after shaving to prevent any ingrown hairs. Try leaving it in the fridge beforehand to keep it fresh and cool.

Available at KonjacSpongeCompany.com

Konjac Sponge, £7.50 | Neighbourhood Botanicals

Specifically designed to banish blackheads, this sponge promises to reveal silkier, brighter-looking skin. The brand recommends soaking the sponge for a few minutes until it turns soft, then using it to buff the face, softly. This sponge is also gentle enough to use daily.

Available at NeighbourhoodBotanticals.com

Konjac Sponge, £17 | Cosmetics 27

A little bit more of an investment, this sponge is extremely gentle and best used with foamy cleaners. Start by applying your favourite cleanser and massaging it into skin for one minute, avoiding the eye area. Then, rehydrate your sponge with a good amount of water, and use it to buff away dead skin. This will provide a deep cleanse that clarifies pores and leaves skin feeling clean and soft.

Available at Cosmetics27.com

Her + Earth, Konjac Sponge With Aloe Vera, £4.99

The added aloe vera in this sponge will be a godsend to those who suffer with blemish-prone skin. Not only does it expel pesky black and white heads, it also soothes troublesome areas. Expect this one to feel rubbery when wet – making it even more comfortable to remove make-up and excess oil.

Available at HerAndEarth.com

Beauty Pie, Konjac Cleansing Sponge for Face & Body, £7.25

 

Great for the face and body, this not only smooths the skin, but it also boosts blood circulation through exfoliation and massage. Equipped with two sides, use one to buff away dead skin on the face, and the other loofah-style side to massage the body. Great for scrubbing away leftover self-tan, on contact with soap it creates a luxurious lather – leaving you to feel squeaky clean.

Available at BeautyPie.com

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