Sponges and Cotton Pads: The Tools of The Trade

I've talked about several different products in the last few weeks that get used in the washing up phase of your day, including what I still believe to be one of the best face wash and toner duos out there, but today I wanted to talk about the little tools that help you get the job done. I've actually had a hard time writing this, because it seems so insignificant, but really it's the little things that add up, and judging by my own reluctance to write about it, I'm going to assume that our poor little sponges and cotton pads often get over looked, but no more.

First, lets talk about the sponge. I'm not talking about those huge brightly coloured squishy sponges that were so popular before the advent of the shower puffs, or the even larger ones popular the world over with car washing enthusiasts, but instead the small unassuming facial sponge. Of course you can just use your hands to lather up and apply your facial cleanser, but I find I get a better wash if I use a sponge. They help to scrub a little deeper, while still being very soft and gentle on the skin. All you have to do is wet them to soften them up, apply some cleanser, and then commence scrubbing your face in circular motions. Once your face is sufficiently lathered up, rinse out the sponge and use it to rinse your face. Simple and relatively inexpensive, but I find it does make a difference for me.

Sephora has their own brand of cellulose sponges that come in a pack of three (the wear out and get dirty with use, so you do need to replace them, making a multi pack a good plan). However, if you're looking to keep your money from fleeing your wallet and feel that avoiding Sephora is the best way to ensure that, then drugstore or walmart brand sponges will work just as well.

Next, the other washing up tool I use is a cotton pad, but not just any cotton pad, I use Life Brand Certified Organic Cotton Pads. I know that sounds rather crunchy granola of me, but let me explain.

Normal cotton pads are generally made from a sort of quilted cotton that flakes apart and tear easily, making them a hassle to deal with. The organic pads on the other hand are miraculously entirely smooth and never flake or come apart. They are smooth and durable. And even though I only use them to remove eye make up and smooth toner over my face, I still love the feel of them. They are an indulgence. They make me feel special, and quite honestly I happily pay the extra dollar for the fancy organic cotton pads.

So I recommend to you, the next time you're looking for a little pick me up, and little treat, and you don't have a lot of money to blow, buy a pack of organic cotton pads, you'll be happy you did.