Washing sponge: features, nuances of use and choice
Cosmetic sponges greatly simplify the skin care process. The numerous assortment of sponges on the market today makes it easy to choose a product for high-quality face cleansing from dirt and make-up.
What it is?
The cleansing sponge is a small soft sponge made of various materials... Small dimensions allow you to easily place an item for storage in a cosmetic bag or a special container, but after interaction with water or lotion, the sponge, as a rule, increases in size.
In general, cosmetic sponges are used not only to cleanse the skin of the face - they can help apply loose powder or foundation, remove makeup, or even distribute a nourishing mask over the face. However, the material chosen for the manufacture of the sponge, as a rule, limits its functionality.
For washing the face, products made from sea sponge or cellulose are usually chosen, and for applying makeup, made of such a synthetic material as foam or latex. Cosmetic sponges also differ in their shape.
Indications and contraindications
A face wash sponge has many functions. Most often used only for removing makeup, it thoroughly cleans the surface and exfoliates dead particles. Sponge gently massages the skin and copes with the appearance of oily sheen. Finally, some girls also note that the sponge prevents the appearance of blackheads. Nevertheless, in some cases, the use of sponges for washing is categorically contraindicated.
We are talking primarily about the presence of an allergy to the material from which the sponge is made, or to the impregnation components. Skin with wounds and other fresh injuries, for example, sunburn or even just a tan, should not be machined. You will have to refuse to use sponge for rosacea, rosacea, acne, comedones and other skin diseases in the treated area.
Otherwise, excessive washing will only lead to the emergence of new problems or the strengthening of existing ones.
Some cosmetic sponges are not suitable for those with sensitive or dry skin. You should also be careful when buying a hard sponge that gives too strong an effect. In general, owners of dry skin are encouraged to use a sponge for washing on the strength a couple of times a week, and for oily skin, use should be done every day. Combination skin involves using the item 3 or 4 times a week. If the skin is sensitive, then the number of washes should be guided by its condition, but always act gently and only slightly pressing.
Views
Today, a wide variety of cleansing sponges are produced. Some of them are impregnated with vegetable extracts or colored clay, and are also enriched with minerals. To use the latter, you don't even need to use an additional cleanser - just wet the sponge. While most sponges are reusable, some, such as cotton sponges, are disposable. They do not have any enhanced cleansing properties, but are convenient for travel use.
Cellulosic
The best sponge for washing is cellulose, having a porous structure and rather large holes. Its large size, softness and comfortable shape allow you to thoroughly cleanse the skin without injuring it. All impurities are removed from the surface, cleansing of dead cells contributes to the renewal of the epidermis, and gentle massage improves microcirculation. A cellulose sponge is made from plant components.
When dry, it looks like a very hard sponge, unusable. However, if soaked in warm water, it will swell, become soft and bend easily. The advantages of reusable cellulose sponges are their low price, natural composition and a shelf life of up to one and a half months, even with everyday use.
Rubber
A rubber sponge for washing often refers to simple silicone brushes with a protective polyurethane coating. Since the surface is devoid of any pores or grooves, the sponge is devoid of the ability to absorb substances and is reusable. Typically, a small amount of cleansing gel is applied to the brush, which is then spread over the face and gently massaged.
Foam
Foam sponges are much more often used for applying cosmetics. Nevertheless the soft surface and the ability to bend make it possible to use them for washing the face. The fine-pored structure does not irritate or stretch the skin. Usually such sponges are produced in various geometric shapes, for example, a triangle, an oval or a square.
Silicone
Speaking of silicone sponges for washing, be sure to mention the electric device - round Foreo brush. It is made of soft silicone and has bristles of different diameters, which allows you to treat even the most difficult-to-reach areas of the face. When connected to a network, the device generates a pulsation that provides better pore cleansing. Another important function of Foreo is the ability to carry out several types of massage.
Konzhakovy
Especially popular is the Konjak sponge Konnyaku, which is created from the roots of an Asian plant. It includes unique substances that promote better skin cleansing and provide the necessary antibacterial effect... The sponge made of natural material does not cause allergies, is suitable for any type of skin and condition, and is absolutely safe for human health.
Today, many manufacturers produce konjac sponges with different impregnations, for example, aloe or red clay extract, as a result of which their beneficial effect is enhanced, and the shape and color of the sponges themselves change.
Out of backlash
Cleansing sponge made of backlash sea sponge, has an antibacterial effect and does not cause an allergic reaction. The sponge softens when interacting with water, after which it can be used not only for washing, but also for light massage of the face. Some beauticians also believe that regular use of backlash can help reduce wrinkles. The rigid structure of the fibers copes not only with superficial cleansing, but even with a full-fledged peeling of the skin of the face. Nevertheless it is recommended to use it only once a week.
Terms of use
To cleanse the skin of the face, you need to take the sponge out of the box or container, wet it with warm water and squeeze it well. First, you need to cleanse the skin from the remnants of cosmetics, for which both ordinary water and a special agent are suitable - milk or hydrophilic oil. Then you need to carry out a full cleaning with a cleanser. It is necessary to use a sponge in such a way that the movements go from the forehead to the temples and further along the massage lines. This rule, by the way, is also relevant for removing makeup.
Cleansing the area around the eyes occurs in a circular motion, and special attention is paid to the wings of the nose and chin. At the end, the face is rinsed with cold water to close the cleansed pores. As mentioned above, how many times to wash depends on the type of skin. It is important in no case to combine the use of a cosmetic sponge and a scrub.
Storage nuances
It is better to store the cosmetic sponge in a special container, case or case. It is important to keep track of that the place is dry and that no light, liquid or dirt gets on the cosmetic device. Leaving the sponge on an open surface in the bathroom is not advisable, as excess moisture can contribute to the development of bacteria. After each use, it is best to rinse it with warm water and liquid soap to remove dirt and sebum.
Full drying on a towel or napkins is also required. The replacement of the sponge is carried out depending on the material used, but, as a rule, it is carried out every 3 months. The service life is usually always indicated on the packaging.
Manufacturers
Today, many brands are engaged in the production of cosmetic sponges for washing, which allows you to choose an option for any wallet. Faberlic brand produces very good silicone sponges that can cope with cleansing, but not traumatizing the skin surface. One of the sides is covered with villi, which allows you to combine washing with massage. According to brand representatives, regular use activates cell renewal and improves blood circulation.
Korea is famous for the production of konjac sponges. Excellent konjac sponges can be found at the Missha brand. The product contains bamboo and charcoal, which allows you to cleanse your face even without additional cleansers. The skin does not dry out, but only gently exfoliates.
Asian brand sponges differ in shape and color, as they are often soaked in additional ingredients. The soft texture of the natural product makes it possible to use it without any problems even for owners of dry skin.
Quite good budget sponges can be found at the L'Etoile brand. The sponges are made of finely porous material and resemble a yellow pumice stone in their appearance. In order to use the sponge, you will need to soak it with warm water.
How to choose?
When choosing a sponge for washing, you should consider only products of reliable brands, made of quality materials. Otherwise, you can injure delicate skin or even lead to unpleasant consequences. It is better to choose more expensive sponges, since cheap specimens wear out extremely quickly, and they have to be changed often. Before buying a previously unknown brand, it makes sense to read reviews. We must not forget about the type of skin - for oily it is better to take hard sponges, and for dry and sensitive ones - soft and non-scratching.
You can see all about the natural cleansing sponge in the video below.