Skin health experts have cautioned against the excessive use of bath sponges, warning that bathing with them more than two or three times a week could expose individuals to serious skin damage and infections.

According to the dermatologists, sponges, particularly loofahs and synthetic mesh types, could harbour harmful bacteria, fungi, and mould if not properly maintained, potentially leading to skin conditions such as rashes, irritation, and, in severe cases, bacterial infections.

Speaking exclusively with PUNCH Healthwise, the skin specialists explained that constant scrubbing with sponges, especially rough ones, could wear down that barrier, making the skin prone to dryness, sensitivity, and microbial infections.

A consultant dermatologist and venereologist, Dr. Edesiri Ighorodje, expressed concern over the excessive use of bath sponges by Nigerians, warning that frequent scrubbing could damage the skin barrier and expose users to a range of skin conditions.

Ighorodje, who works with the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Akwa Ibom State, said while bath sponges are a common hygiene tool across the country, many users are unaware that they serve as physical exfoliators, a process that, when overdone, could have harmful consequences.

The physician warned that a compromised skin barrier could trigger flare-ups, especially in people with sensitive or atopic skin, and heighten the risk of skin infections and contact dermatitis.

She stated, “Bath sponges exfoliate the skin physically. Though exfoliation is beneficial, it should be limited to once or twice weekly. Over-exfoliating can lead to a broken skin barrier.

“It also increases the absorption of harmful substances, such as toxic components found in skin-bleaching products.”

According to the dermatologist, even individuals without a history of sensitive skin can develop allergic reactions if their skin barrier is weakened.

“The damaged barrier allows allergens to penetrate more easily, potentially leading to allergic or irritant contact dermatitis,” she noted.

She further revealed that overuse of bath sponges, particularly among those who bleach their skin, can worsen dryness and provoke acne breakouts.

Speaking on environmental influences, Ighorodje acknowledged that Nigeria’s tropical climate, marked by intense heat and humidity, makes sponge use a practical option for maintaining hygiene.

She, however, stressed that moderation is key.

The skin specialist advised individuals with sensitive skin conditions such as atopic eczema, urticaria, or signs of a compromised skin barrier to discontinue sponge use altogether to reduce flare-ups.

Ighorodje, a Fellow of the West African College of Physicians and an OMI Fellow, cautioned Nigerians to pay attention to their skin type and reduce exposure to harmful skin products.

She added, “In fact, because of our tropical climate, characterised by heat, humidity, and increased sweating, the use of bath sponges can be beneficial for maintaining hygiene. It is not inappropriate or unacceptable to use a bath sponge.

“However, I generally recommend using it two to three times a week.

“For individuals with sensitive skin, atopic eczema, urticaria or any presentation of signs of a compromised skin barrier, I discontinue it totally for these persons. This helps them have less flares and symptoms.”

Corroborating her, another dermatologist, Dr. Ifeanyi Umeh, stated that most people are unaware that sponges need to be cleaned regularly and replaced at least every two to four weeks, noting that many households reuse them for months without proper hygiene.

He cautioned against aggressive or daily exfoliation, adding, “You don’t need to scrub your skin every day. For most people, two to three times a week is enough. Over-exfoliation can do more harm than good.

Beyond skin irritation, the skin expert said dirty sponges can become breeding grounds for Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas, and Candida, pathogens known to cause a variety of skin diseases.


“People think the harder they scrub, the cleaner their skin becomes. But what they don’t realise is that constant friction from bath sponges, especially the rough loofah types, can gradually strip away the skin’s natural oils and protective barrier. This makes the skin more vulnerable to dryness, eczema, and infections.

“Worse still, many Nigerians don’t wash or dry their sponges properly, and they end up reusing them for weeks or even months. These sponges then become breeding grounds for harmful organisms like Staphylococcus and Pseudomonas. It’s a hygiene issue that needs more public attention.”

He urged Nigerians to adopt better hygiene practices, including proper sponge care, opting for softer alternatives like washcloths, and moisturising after baths to maintain healthy skin.

The dermatologist also called for greater public awareness on the safe use of bathing tools, especially in urban areas where skin-related consultations had surged in recent months.