Genki Konnyaku Cleansing Sponges

Recently, I attended a fantastic press launch for a new natural beauty website and met lots of inspiring, product-passionate people from fascinating ranges. It was particularly enjoyable because it's rare to meet the actual bods behind brands without some smoke and mirrors spin, so it made for an event that I came away feeling genuinely enthused about. The day also brought together two of my favourite things - beauty and complementary therapies - so I was a very happy bunny indeed. (You'll be hearing more about Nutri Beauty in the coming weeks as I've a huge box of wholesome goodies to get through and will be reviewing, in due course, the 'best bits'). 

After having a rootle around said box, I reached for the least attractive item. A colourless, stiff-looking cleansing sponge with little - seemingly - to remark upon. I felt awfully sorry for its plainness. Can't put my finger on why, but it reminded me of a friend at school who could never drop a singleton crisp in case it felt lonely. 

From right; original for normal/sensitive skin
& French pink clay for dry skin

Konnyaku (yup, I did Google it's provenance), is a type of Southeast Asian potato; high in fibre, minerals and natural water content. Apparently popular in Japan as an exfoliating sponge, it is also the main ingredient in Konnyaku noodles. Cleansing with noodles? now there's a novel concept. 

Bamboo charcoal for oily complexions

When soaked in water the Genki sponge is soft, dense and squidgy with a fibrous feel that's more exfoliating than a muslin cloth but nowhere near as abrasive as a loofah - thankfully! Used with cream cleanser it's incredibly effective at removing make-up and grime leaving the skin brighter, fresher and super-smooth. Which reminds me never to judge a potato on its peel or a book by its cover. In this case, the 'booby prize' played a blinder.                                                                                                                        
*Genki Konnyaku Cleansing Sponge is £9.99 and available at www.nutribeautyproducts.com