Are Loofahs Bad for Your Skin? Dr. Jeffy Explains

Your loofah makes you feel clean.

But is it actually good for your skin?

As a dermatologist, I’m not a fan of loofahs and there are a few reasons you may want to reconsider what you're using in the shower.

Why Loofahs May Be Bad for Your Skin

Loofahs spend most of their lives hanging in a warm, damp shower. That moist environment can encourage bacterial growth, especially when your loofah doesn't fully dry between uses.

Then you take that same loofah and scrub it across your skin.

Clean? Debatable.

The other problem is how aggressively most people use loofahs. Too much physical exfoliation can irritate the skin and disrupt the skin barrier. If you have sensitive skin, eczema, or rosacea, all that scrubbing may be doing more harm than good.

What Should You Use Instead of a Loofah?

My first choice is surprisingly simple: your hands, with second choice being a soft washcloth.

Washcloths can be washed and dried after use, making them an easy loofah alternative. If you prefer a shower tool, consider a washable exfoliating glove or silicone body scrubber that can dry completely between uses.

For sensitive or eczema-prone skin, stick hands or a soft washcloth.

How Often Should You Exfoliate Your Body?

For most people, once a week is plenty.

You can use a washable exfoliating tool or a body scrub on wet skin. More exfoliation does not automatically mean smoother, cleaner, or healthier skin.

Sometimes it just means an angry skin barrier. Which can mean dry skin and breakouts.

The Dermatologist Verdict on Loofahs

Are loofahs bad for your skin?

I'm not saying using one occasionally is going to destroy your skin. But for everyday use, I think there are better options.

Skip the loofah. Your hands or a soft washcloth are all you need.