Dermatologist warns against frequent use of sponge to bath
A Nigerian consultant dermatologist, Folakemi Cole-Adeife, has provided insights into the practice of using sponges for bathing.
Ms Cole-Adeife of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja, stated this in an interview with journalists on Monday in Lagos.
According to her, frequent use of a sponge can be detrimental to skin health for several reasons.
She said some of the impact of using sponge to bathe on skin health include stripping natural oils.
The primary concern with using a sponge frequently is that it can strip the skin of its natural oils. These oils are essential for maintaining skin hydration and barrier function. When these oils are removed, the skin may become dry and more susceptible to irritation.
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Another effect is micro-trauma. She explained that the mechanical action of scrubbing with a sponge can create micro-tears or micro-trauma in the skin. This damage can lead to inflammation and increase the risk of infections as the integrity of the skin barrier is compromised.
Also, frequent use of a sponge may also introduce bacteria and other microorganisms onto the skin. Sponges can harbor bacteria if not cleaned properly, which could lead to skin infections or exacerbate existing skin conditions.
Ms. Cole-Adeife noted that individuals who experience itchy skin might benefit from reducing or eliminating sponge use during bathing. Itching can be a sign of irritation or an allergic reaction, which may be aggravated by excessive scrubbing.
Natural exfoliation
The dermatologist emphasized that the human skin has a natural ability to exfoliate itself without the need for mechanical aids like sponges. While some people feel they need to scrub their skin vigorously to feel clean, this is often unnecessary.
She advised those who feel uncomfortable without using a sponge to limit its use to once or twice a week, or at most three times per week. This approach allows for some level of exfoliation while minimizing potential harm to the skin.
