Konjac sponges are one of the hottest trends in skincare and lauded as one as the best ways to cleanse your face, so I decided to try one out so see what all the fuss is about. But, first a history lesson:

Konjac is a root-based vegetable that grows in warm climates in Asia, and can be used in cuisine or as a dietary supplement to cure a whole list of aliments from high cholesterol to weigh toss. It’s also super rich is vitamins, minerals and fiber.

The perennial root plant, mostly composed of starch, is used to make a super-soft sponge that acts as an all-natural exfoliater to remove impurities, and leave you with cleaner, smother skin. I tested ecotools Pure Complexion Facial Sponge – Deep Cleansing recently, which is handmade with 100% natural ingredients, including Konjac vegetable fiber and bamboo charcoal.

Initially, when I took the sponge out of the box it was rock-hard solid, and I could not imagine washing my face with it. But, after I rinsed the sponge in water, it quickly became soft and felt like nothing I have ever touched before. It was mushy, but solid and felt like a weird mind game considering the way it looked versus the sensation I was feeling in my hands.

I loaded the sponge with my face wash and watched as it absorbed the gel and formed a rich lather. Next, was the ultimate test – I had to wash my face with it. I lightly glided it across my face was pleasantly surprised at how smoothly it caressed my skin as it washed away my makeup and exfoliated. It even gently glided around my delicate eye area. I’ve been using the sponge a few times a week now, and really do like it.

It’s a great alternative for anyone who has sensitive skin, or is just looking for a light exfoliator. Right now, during the winter months, my skin is extra dray and I’ve been breaking out a lot, so this is a great option for me until the summer months return and I can bring my lovely Clarisonic.

The ecotools Pure Complexion Facial Sponge retails for just $5.99.