There are numerous benefits of natural sea sponges for the skin. Today we will learn more about these little sea creatures, we will discuss how they are harvested and whether they are an Eco-friendly product, we will then get into their benefits in skincare, including how to use them and properly care for them.
What is a Sea Sponge?
A sea sponge is a multi-celled organism that grows and lives on the ocean floor.
Although sea sponges are classified as animals, they do not have nervous, digestive, or circulatory systems. Their bodies are made of pores and channels, in which water circulates, through this circulation of water, they harvest oxygen and food.
Out of the 5000 varieties of sea sponges, less than 12 are harvested for commercial use. They are sold for everything from cleaning, paint application, bathing, and even as natural tampons.
Are they Vegan-friendly?
Because sea sponges grow, reproduce, and survive as plants, many consider them to be vegan-friendly.
Are They Eco-Friendly?
Sea sponges are an Eco-friendly and sustainable industry. If harvested correctly, sea sponges will grow back within a few years of being harvested. Places where sea sponges are harvested actually show an increase in sea sponge populations.
The harvesting of sea sponges is an industry that has been practiced for thousands of years, often being passed down within families. Sponges are harvested leaving a base from which it can regenerate and regrow.
Are Sea Sponges Better Than Synthetic Sponges?
Synthetic sponges are made with petroleum products, a completely unsustainable industry. These plastic sponges are often injected with triclosan, an antibacterial chemical that can have negative effects on our nervous and hormone systems.
Sea sponges are biodegradable. They are hypoallergenic because they contain no harsh chemicals, artificial ingredients, or toxins. They are a sustainable industry that does not harm the Earth in any way.
Sea Sponges for Skin Care
Sea sponges:
- are highly absorbent
- create a luxurious lather
- are exceptionally soft
- do not retain orders
- contain enzymes that inhibit mold and bacteria growth
- last longer than synthetic sponges
- are useful for all skin types, even sensitive skin
- are hypoallergenic
Skin Benefits
The minerals contained in sea sponges nourish and benefit the skin. These include, but are not limited to: calcium, magnesium, sodium, iron, zinc, and potassium.
Sea sponges offer gentle exfoliation. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, and reveals younger, fresher looking skin underneath.
Sea sponges make your cleanser foam, so you use less cleanser, they soak up and hold a lot of water without dripping, and they can be used on their own to cleanse your skin, eliminating the need for soap.
Types of Sea Sponges
There are a few different types of sea sponges that are used in skincare:
- Mediterranean Silk
- very dense, with a soft, velvety texture
- Great for gentle exfoliation
- Cleanse naturally without the need for soap
- Excellent for sensitive skin, babies and small children
- Can be used to apply and remove makeup
- Honeycomb Wool
- Dense, soft, pliable, and strong
- Porous and buoyant, they make a rich lather
- Makes a good bath sponge
- Yellow Sea Sponges
- Stiffer sponge that provides excellent exfoliation
- Not as soft as the above two types, useful for occasional exfoliation
Using Your Sea Sponge
Before you use your sea sponge, give it a rinse and check it for sea debris (shells, coral, seaweed…).
Using your sponge is a simple process, simply get it wet, squirt on a bit of cleanser or rub on some soap, and use it on your face or body.
Caring for your Sea Sponge
- Every few weeks, soak your sponge in 1 cup warm water with 1 tablespoon baking soda for 15 minutes. Then rinse and let dry (preferably hang it in a mesh bag.) The baking soda cleans the sponge as well as revitalizes its cellular structure, increasing durability.
- After each use, allow your sponges to completely dry. Don’t keep them in the shower, hang them somewhere where they can totally dry out.
To disinfect your sponge:
- soak it in 1/4 cup hydrogen peroxide and 1 cup water, this will clean and re-bleach the sponge.
- soak in 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar) in 1 cup of warm water.
- soak your sponge in 3 drops of tea tree oil in 1 cup of warm water, this will eliminate any odors.
NEVER
- place your sponge in boiling water, a dryer, or the microwave. This will make your sponge hard.
- use bleach, this will weaken your sponge.
- twist or pull your sponge, this will tear it.
- If your sponge starts getting ragged, trim off the loose pieces with a pair of scissors.
Recommended Sea Sponges
Variety Pack for Bathing
A great variety pack perfect for trying out a few different types. These are large and are perfect for bathing.
Get it on Amazon
Have you tried a sea sponge? What is your favorite type? Leave us a comment below!
Yours In Beauty,
Andrea
*p.s this post contains affiliate links to Amazon, if you decide to purchase, I will receive a small commission. Thanks for your support!
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