Native to Southeast Asia, konjac has been celebrated in France for its appetite-suppressing and detoxifying qualities. In recent months, beauty experts worldwide have championed the konjac sponge as a skincare essential. But what makes it so special?
Derived from the plant's root, this 100% natural sponge gently cleanses and exfoliates the skin. "Konjac root is sanitizing and anti-bacterial, so simply wetting it activates its effectiveness," explains Katalin Berenyi, founder of Erborian. You can use it alone or pair it with a cleanser like gel or foam—though it's not required for optimal results. Sponges come in various shapes and colors: larger ones with thicker fibers suit the body, while finer facial versions provide precise care. The classic white sponge is versatile, with colored variants offering targeted benefits: anti-aging (red clay), purifying (green tea), mattifying (black charcoal), soothing (purple lavender), and more.
Ideal for all skin types, including the most sensitive, it delivers the gentlest exfoliation—making it a superior alternative to harsh scrubs or cleansing brushes.
Here's how to use it effectively: Apply daily to pre-cleansed skin. Wet the sponge, adjusting water temperature for your needs—cold to tighten pores, warm to open them and enhance active ingredient absorption. If using a cleanser, apply it directly to the skin first.
Hold the flat side against your fingers and massage in circular motions with light pressure. Start with the forehead and nose for deep cleansing, then move to cheeks and chin.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water after use and air-dry. Replace every three months or sooner if damaged.
Our top picks:
Sensitive skin: Lavender Konjac Sponge, Lady Green, €7.95.
Deluxe version: Le Soin Noir Cleansing Ritual (sponge + treatment), Givenchy, €106.50.
Mixed skin: Green Tea Konjac Sponge, Erborian, €9.50.
Dry skin: Konjac Body Sponge with Red Clay, The Konjac Sponge Company on bazar-bio.fr, €13.95.
Lack of sparkle: Konjac Sponge with Pink Clay, on ohmycream.fr, €9.99 (in photo).
Normal skin: Cleansing Konjac Sponge, Sephora, €6.95.
Special body: Konjac Body Sponge, Nocibé, €9.95.
