The horsehair glove is a kind of washcloth braided in horsehair. Horsehair is either animal (usually beef, horse or goat) or vegetable (dwarf palm, agave). It can be natural or synthetic. It has considerable exfoliating power which makes it an essential multi-use product in the bathroom. By definition, the loofah (also written loofa or luffa) is a climbing cucurbit from warm regions whose fruit (cousin of cucumber and zucchini) provides a vegetable sponge. The sponge may come from Egypt, China, Amazonia or India. This washcloth is therefore made of 100% natural fibers.
The horsehair glove and the loofah are two products known to exfoliate the skin. But not only ! They both have the same properties, namely ridding the skin of dead cells, invigorating blood circulation and fighting cellulite. They are recommended against ingrown hairs and to prepare the skin before hair removal. The horsehair glove, by its rough texture, is considered more effective for this last use. The usage is essentially the same. Both products should be used in the shower or bath. It is advisable to have damp skin. You can associate them with a black soap (as in oriental hammams) or with an Aleppo soap. It should be done in gentle circular motions on areas that may have cellulite such as the buttocks, thighs and hips. For the legs, just go up without making circular movements. You can also pass them on your back, stomach and arms. It is best to avoid the chest and it is absolutely not recommended to pass them on the face.
The horsehair glove or the loofah are very similar but they still display many differences, starting with the exfoliating power. The horsehair glove is much more effective in this area… But also much more abrasive! It is important to know how to use it so as not to irritate your skin. The horsehair glove is not recommended for sensitive and fragile skin. Unlike the loofah, it can be used on wet or dry skin. On dry skin, it is recommended before electric hair removal. The horsehair glove is generally used less often than the loofah, which is deemed to be softer for the skin. The latter can be used several times a week on the roughest parts of the body. The horsehair glove displeases many women as it is abrasive. It is not washable. The loofah is recommended for women with sensitive skin, as it promises gentle exfoliation. It is important to wring it well after each use, as it may mold if it does not dry properly.
