Doctor issues warning over how often you should replace loofah
If you’re a fan of using a loofah in the shower, it’s time to tune in for some essential hygiene advice.
Sure, they add a cute touch to your bathroom, available in an array of colours and creating an unrivalled lather with your bath products. However, what you might not realise is that loofahs require frequent replacement to avoid health hazards.
Your seemingly innocuous loofah could be harbouring rather unsavoury secrets, making it crucial to change them out on a regular basis.
Fortunately, they won’t break the bank, as many are priced at around £1. Yet, some advocates suggest abandoning loofahs entirely in favour of simply using your hands.
TikTok user @bellavanabeauty recently advised on the frequency of changing loofahs, posting a video of one looking quite worn and stating: “Once it looks like this”.
Alternatively, even if it doesn’t appear overly tattered, she recommends getting a new one “once every six to eight weeks”.
It’s also important to “let it air dry after use” to prevent significant bacterial growth, and “disinfect mesh loofahs often”.
Dr Naheed Ali from Vera Clinic has underscored the importance of regularly updating your loofah to maintain good hygiene practices.
He warned: “Most people don’t think twice about their loofah, but I see what happens when they don’t. These things trap bacteria, mould, and dead skin cells, and if they’re not replaced often, they become a breeding ground for infections, irritation, and even fungal overgrowth.
“A loofah that’s constantly damp is the perfect place for microbes to thrive, and using that on your skin every day does more harm than good.
“In holistic health, everything is connected. Skin problems don’t always come from diet or products-sometimes, they are daily habits people don’t even consider. When someone comes in with persistent breakouts, rashes, or irritation that won’t go away, one of the first things I ask about is hygiene.
“A bacteria-filled sponge rubbing over the body every day isn’t doing the skin any favours, especially for people with sensitive skin, eczema, or weakened immune systems.
“I also see this with scalp and hair health. Some people use loofahs or shower tools on their scalp, thinking they’re exfoliating, but they’re just reintroducing bacteria and dead skin cells into their hair follicles. That buildup can lead to scalp irritation and folliculitis and even potentially contribute to hair thinning.
“Loofahs should be replaced at least every few weeks. Between replacements, they need to dry out fully after each use, or bacteria multiply fast. I’ve had people clear up stubborn skin irritation and unexpected breakouts just by switching out their loofah more often. It’s a good practice that makes a real difference.”
