Where do the best natural sponges come from?
Natural sea sponges come from the sea, of course! But where, exactly? At Naroa, we use traditional harvesting methods that are similar to the ones used by the Ancient Greeks, hand-cutting our sponges for sustainability.
You can explore our range of the best natural sponges in our shop at Naroa, which are ideal to remove flaky skin and provide a luxurious lather, but first let’s explore the origins of sea sponges.
Where the best natural sponges are harvested
Natural sponges are mainly harvested from two areas, the Caribbean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. The crystal-clear waters, moderate temperatures, and fertile seabed provides the perfect place for sea sponges to thrive. They grow on rocky and sandy surfaces, including reefs, and filter nutrients from the sea water. This is why sponges have that intricate, channeled texture that once dried becomes the best way to make skin smooth.
Sea sponges typically grow at depths of around 60 to 100 meters, where our expert divers can reach and harvest them.
But which sponge is best?
When someone asks where the best natural sponges come from, we like to explain that there is no ‘best sea sponge’ as each sea sponge is different.
Firstly, there are around 12,500 different types of sea sponge but only some varieties are commercially harvested for skincare. Within those varieties, there are different types which have specific benefits for your skin.
To differentiate even further, the same sponge can grow quite differently depending on the conditions it grows in. For example, water temperature, sea nutrients, and light exposure can all determine how a sponge grows and whether it is ‘best’ for skincare or not.
Knowing which sponge is best for skincare requires expert knowledge. The skills to select and harvest a sponge by hand have been passed down through generations and we are keeping them alive at Naroa. We select the best natural sponges from the Caribbean Sea and cut above the root, ensuring that the sponge can continue to grow and thrive.
What about a loofah?
A loofah sponge, which is also a type of natural sponge, is not the same thing as a sea sponge. While the sea sponge is a natural marine creature with a soft and luxurious feel, a loofah sponge is made from plant matter. Loofahs are notoriously tough and scratchy, which might feel good the first time you use it, but it can damage your skin – especially with long-term use. Learn more in our article The Difference Between a Loofah and Natural Sea Sponge.
Find a body sponge that removes dead skin and more
To summarize, the best natural sponges are those that are harvested sustainably, processed effectively, and have a strict quality control process. However, the sponge that is best for you will be one that suits your needs best.
At Naroa, we have three different types of sea sponges for bathing, each with specific benefits. For example, our exfoliating sponge is ideal if you want to remove flaky skin or deeply clean your pores. Our soothing sponge, on the other hand, is one of the best natural sponges for sensitive skin. Finally, our massaging sponge has just the right texture to melt the stress away as you wash your body.
We believe that using all three sponges that we have on offer on a rotating basis is the best way to care for your skin and leave you feeling and looking your best. Explore Naroa sea sponges today.