Dermatologists Favor Hand Washing Over Loofahs as Unwashed Tools Can Harbor Bacteria
Updated
Updated · HuffPost · Jun 16
Dermatologists Favor Hand Washing Over Loofahs as Unwashed Tools Can Harbor Bacteria
3 articles · Updated · HuffPost · Jun 16
Summary
Dermatologists told HuffPost that hands are the safest default for washing the body, saying they clean effectively while reducing irritation and contamination risk.
Sensitive skin drives that advice: loofahs and even frequent washcloth use can over-exfoliate, disrupt the stratum corneum and raise infection risk, especially for people with eczema, acne, psoriasis, mature skin or infants.
Washcloths still have a limited role for stuck-on dirt or mild exfoliation, but experts said they should not be used every shower; chemical exfoliants such as glycolic, lactic or salicylic acid should be used only once or twice a week.
If a washcloth is used, doctors advised washing it at least once a week—some recommend after every use—and hanging it to dry, while largely discouraging loofahs because they are rarely cleaned and can harbor bacteria.