A different view of these sponges....
.<br />Are these the greatest sponges ever? Depends upon what you're looking for.<br /><br />Reviewers seem divided by one primary issue -- the texture of these sponges. I think they're missing the point. Texture isn't right or wrong; the issue is what kind of texture your face needs. This sponge, as stated on the Amazon product description, is &#34;gentle,&#34; a description that automatically neutralizes complaints that the sponges don't &#34;scrub&#34; or exfoliate enough. These are not &#34;scrubbing&#34; sponges.<br /><br />Having said all that, I can say that I really like these sponges. I don't need or want harsh exfoliation, but just a good face-washing -- something better than my bare fingers, but less trouble than face towels that require frequent washing. The shape of this sponge is just right for the face. The narrow end is for eyes and nose, the larger end is for chin, cheeks and forehead. The sponge fits these areas very nicely, and it's easier to control than larger sponges or washrags.<br /><br />Another complaint of some reviewers is that they don't know &#34;what's in the sponges.&#34; Again, the Amazon description gives that information. &#34;Our sponges contain only TWO INGREDIENTS, ground root of the konnyaku (konjac) plant, and bamboo charcoal. No chemicals, no parabens, and no toxins.&#34; The konnyaku plant is edible and made in a variety of ways, including use as a dietary fiber and weight loss ingredient. As a sponge, it's particularly good for sensitive skin, or for people like me who just don't need or want a rough exfoliant.<br /><br />The bottom line here is that these sponges are neither designed nor marketed as strong exfoliating sponges, so if that's what you want, these are not for you. If, on the other hand, you want sponges that will scrub/buff your face and leave it ready for your serum or moisturizer, these are terrific. They make cleanser go further, they 'buff' my face without scraping off the skin, and my serum goes absorbs better and more quickly after using the sponges. I clean the sponge after each use by squeezing it flat between my palms several times until all the soap is squeezed out, then hang it from a hook to dry. I use it morning and night.<br /><br />So, why am I giving them four stars instead of five? One reason: price. Five dollars each seems a bit steep. It's made from a plentiful Asian plant, and while everyone deserves to make a living from their products, it seems the price could be a bit lower on these. Other than that, I recommend these sponges fully.
Rating: 4 stars