Can You Use a Loofah Every Day? Here’s the Truth

 

There’s something wonderfully simple about using a loofah. It gives your skin that clean-skin feel, adds a little exfoliation to your routine, and hangs in the bathroom ready for tomorrow. But with more of our clients asking "can I use a loofah every day?" the answer isn’t quite so straightforward.

At V&M SPA, we’re often asked how often our exfoliating loofah sponge should be used—especially by those with reactive or sensitive skin. It’s a good question, because as much as we love the ritual of bathing, over-exfoliation is real.

In this blog, we’ll break down how often to use your loofah, how to care for it, and how to support the skin barrier with the right balance of exfoliation and hydration.

 
 
 
 

WHY YOU SHOULDN'T USE A LOOFAH EVERY DAY

We get it—it’s satisfying. But exfoliating daily with even a gentle exfoliating loofah sponge can damage the protective barrier of your skin, leading to dryness, irritation, and in some cases, small tears in the surface.

Skin needs time to recover between exfoliating sessions. Otherwise, you risk disrupting the microbiome that keeps your skin healthy and resilient.

If your skin feels tight, looks red, or stings after showering, it’s a sign you’re overdoing it. Instead:

  • Use your loofah 2–3 times per week

  • Focus on areas prone to buildup (elbows, knees, back)

  • Avoid broken, inflamed, or sunburnt skin

 
 
Slightly inflamed skin on upper arm or leg showing redness from over-exfoliation
 
 

A NOTE ON SKIN SENSITIVITY

If you have reactive or inflamed skin, even light exfoliation can feel like too much. Many of our clients come to us after experiencing dryness or flare-ups from body washes or tools that were too harsh.

Our approach is simple: nourish first, exfoliate second. Always pair your exfoliating loofah sponge with a body wash for sensitive skin—a formula that calms the skin while gently cleansing.

Our body wash includes native Kunzea extract, known for its anti-inflammatory benefits, making it ideal for those prone to redness, irritation or post-shave sensitivity.

 
 

THE BENEFITS OF A NATURAL LOOFAH

Choosing a natural exfoliating loofah sponge over a plastic alternative is better for your skin and the environment. Our natural loofah is biodegradable, non-toxic, and lasts for years when properly cared for.

One of our team members used hers for over 3.5 years before it began to break down. In that time, she avoided using over 40 plastic loofahs—the equivalent of roughly $320 in savings.

So while you don’t use it daily, when you do, it’s worth it.

HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR EXFOLIATING LOOFAH SPONGE

  1. Rinse it well after each use, removing all soap residue

  2. Hang it somewhere it can dry completely

  3. Avoid humid spots like closed shower corners

  4. Wash weekly in the washing machine on a gentle cycle using a laundry bag or pillowcase

With these simple steps, your loofah can last for years.

PAIRING IT WITH THE RIGHT BODY WASH

Our body wash for sensitive skin was formulated to work in harmony with your skin, whether you use a loofah or not. It gently cleanses without sulphates or synthetic fragrance, making it ideal for reactive or mature skin.

We source our Kunzea from Bridestowe Estate in Tasmania, and produce in small batches to ensure every bottle supports skin health while honouring our Australian roots.

Use 1–2 pumps on wet skin with your loofah, or apply directly to hands for a softer cleanse on non-exfoliating days.

FINDING YOUR RHYTHM

Like all self-care, exfoliation works best when done intuitively. Your skin will tell you what it needs. If it feels dull or rough, reach for your loofah. If it feels sensitive, let it rest and nourish it instead.

Our philosophy is simple: never force results. Healthy skin is supported, not stripped.

RELATED READING: Unlocking the Full Potential of Your Washable Natural Loofah

FINAL THOUGHTS

You don’t need to exfoliate every day to have radiant skin. Thoughtful, balanced care is more effective than a rushed routine.

When used correctly, an exfoliating loofah sponge becomes a sustainable, satisfying tool. Paired with our body wash for sensitive skin, it helps reveal healthy, glowing skin that looks and feels calm.

Because skincare should support your body, not disrupt it.