A loofah is a sponge used on the body to prepare the skin prior to waxing the hair or following laser hair removal. The loofah will exfoliate dead skin in the area before waxing and helps ensure an even wax application for the hair removal. Using the loofah after laser hair removal may help encourage the hair to shed following the procedure. Ingrown hairs may occur after shaving hair from the body and using a loofah may help free the trapped hair from the skin. Using a loofah before shaving may help prevent the ingrown hairs from occurring.
Purchase a loofah to use for prepping the skin for hair removal. The options for loofahs include natural and synthetic sponges. Natural loofah sponges are more flexible. Stores selling beauty supplies will usually also carry a selection of loofahs.
Use the loofah within a few hours following shaving to help prevent ingrown hairs from occurring by releasing the tip of the hair from the surface of the skin. Use the loofah before shaving or waxing to reduce the amount of dead skin on the surface of the body. Exfoliating the skin first helps improve the results of the hair removal process.
Wet the skin and the loofah with warm water to soften the sponge and the skin on the body.
Lather the loofah with a mild soap and wash the body in a circular motion to exfoliate the skin and remove dead hair.
Rinse the loofah under hot water after using it to help remove any dead skin cells trapped in the sponge. Wash the loofah in the washing machine or replace frequently to help discourage bacteria and mold growth.
Allow the loofah sponge to dry thoroughly between uses to help prevent bacterial growth on the item, according to PubMed, a division of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Bacteria and mold thrive in warm, moist environments, such as the bathroom. Allowing the loofah to remain wet or dirty allows the growth of foreign material known to cause folliculitis, which is an infection of the hair follicle.