Konjac Sponge Company

I recently discovered the Konjac Sponge Company via one of my favourite blogs, Get Lippie. I usually cleanse my skin with a Clarisonic, but as Get Lippie said she combined her Clarisonic cleansing routine with using the sponge in the morning, I decided to give the sponges a try. And it was definitely a a good choice on my part.

Here's what the company has to say about the sponges:

"Konjac is reputed for its health giving properties & used by the Japanese for over 1500 years, having originally been used as a medicine in the sixth century

• 100% Natural Sponge
• 100% Colouring Free
• 100% Additive Free
• 100% Biodegradable
• Naturally Sustainable
• Environmentally Safe

A naturally moisture rich plant fibre which is by nature alkaline, and thus balances the acidity of the skins impurities and oils.

The unique net like structure of the sponge, gently massages the skin and stimulates blood flow and new growth of skin cells. Leaving the skin extremely clean and refreshed…..naturally! No need for additional cleansers or soaps unless you really want. Should you chose to use additional cleansers or soap, you can use a fraction of your usual amount, as the sponge will generate more bubbles and spread the cleaner further than usual. Better for your skin, better on the environment and your finances!"

There are a range of sponges, from the Original Konjac sponge to the sponges which have added skincare benefits, e.g. the Konjac Sponge with Bamboo Charcoal (for oily and breakout prone skin) and the  Konjac Sponge with French Clay (smoothes and softens the skin).

The sponges are packaged in plastic packaging and are therefore fully hydrated. After using the sponge, let it dry and then re-hydrate before using the next time.

I have used both the Original Konjac Sponge and the Bamboo Charcoal Sponge, and have been very impressed with both of them. I use it in the morning, as I like to use my Clarisonic in the evening to ensure a deep-cleanse. You can use the sponges with just water, or you can use your normal cleanser with it. My skin feels really soft and smooth after using the sponge, and the Bamboo Charcoal Sponge seems to help mattify my skin.

The sponges cost £5.25 for the Original Sponge; £5.50 for the Bamboo Charcoal Sponge and £5.75 for the French Clay Sponges, which I think are good prices for what you get.

I will definitely be re-purchasing one of these when I have finished with it, and have recommended them to my friends.

A little bird (a.k.a the lovely Michelle who owns the company) revealed to me that they will be releasing a Konjac Body Sponge in two weeks time, and I was lucky enough to be sent one for review purposes. Keep a look out for a future review.

Have you tried these? What did you think?

My Current Routine - Part I: Skincare

I originally wrote this list a few months ago after reading a couple of posts where bloggers detailed what they used. At the time I thought it would be interesting for myself to note exactly which products of the many that I own that I was actually using, and which ones were taking up valuable bathroom space with no beauty benefits gained! Previously, the products that I was using tended to be a combination of gifts, special offers and habit. Since then, thanks to my new discoveries via Twitter and other blogs, this list has changed quite a bit. Whilst I think I’ve now found a few Holy Grail items, I am quite sure that this list will keep evolving, as my skin changes, beauty trends move on, and well, as a beauty lover I never really need a reason to try new products! As the list is quite long I've split it into a couple of posts.

Cleanser – Origins Checks & Balances, used with a Konjac Sponge. If you haven’t already tried the Konjac sponge then I urge you to give it a go. I discovered them via a post on the fabulous Get Lippie blog. They are such a simple and good value product which helps leave my skin beautifully smooth after cleansing.

Toner – I am not currently using a toner, but having read a few posts promoting the virtues of a good toner, this is about to change.

Make-up Remover – I have been using a Bourjois make-up remover after reading about it on a blog. However it didn't live up to my expectations as it's quite greasy, so I am on the hunt for a new one. All recommendations welcome!

Moisturiser

Day: La Roche-Posay Effaclar M/Effaclar Duo/Effaclar K . I first heard of this brand a while ago but it was only when I read rave reviews on Twitter that I decided to give it a go and ordered some from www.escentual.com  who have some great value packs of La Roche-Posay. I am so glad that I did. The Effaclar range is designed for oily skin with imperfections. I mix and match these 3 different lotions according to my skin's requirements. I find that the Effaclar M really helps to mattify my skin without drying it out. The Duo and K are great when I have got a breakout or my skin is looking a bit congested.

Night: Dr Nick Lowe Night Recovery Cream - I was lucky enough to win this as part of a set in a Twitter giveaway from @DrNickLoweSkin . I had previously only used products from Dr Nick Lowe’s Anti-Blemish range. However, I have found that this night cream really helps with the appearance of my skin overnight, leaving it feeling softer and smoother.

Primer/Radiance booster – Clarins Beauty Flash Balm – I LOVE this product. This product is a classic, so when I was lucky enough to get it free in a Grazia Beauty event goodie bag, I was one very happy lady. This product does exactly what it says on the tube: brightens and firms. I apply this to my skin using the technique shown by Lisa Eldridge and instantly my skin looks better.

Eye-cream – Clinique All about Eyes

Exfoliator – Origins Modern Friction

Face mask – I have yet to find a face mask that I really love, so I have been alternating between Soap & Glory The Fab Pore which I was given as part of a set, and the hydrating Origins Drink Up, depending on the condition of my skin.