Makers are intensifying use of plant derivatives as these exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin better than the conventional plastic.

TOP TRENDS

• Plant-derived materials: Many makers are turning to natural fibers as these are hypoallergenic, more compatible with the skin and less abrasive than the conventional PP mesh. Loofah has become the input of choice because it exfoliates effectively, and helps improve blood circulation, unclog pores and prevent skin irritation. Sisal and bamboo rayon are also emerging alternatives.
• Recycled inputs: Manufacturers are employing recycled PET fibers in select releases, which are priced about three times higher than pieces in plastic, microfiber and plant derivatives.
• Design: Traditional rectangular, oval, round and arched models continue to dominate output. Versions in cartoon, animal, heart and floral themes, and ergonomically designed glove types are available as well.
• Price projection: Quotes of loofah bath scrubs went up by 10 to 20 percent in the past quarter. Further increases are expected in the months ahead due to rising cost of the material. Prices of variants in microfiber, plastic and sisal, meanwhile, are predicted to stay at current levels.

Product gallery Baifuning Textiles Co. Ltd Model: 5918A Description: Loofah scrub; microfiber towel exterior; 32x32cm

Caoxian Ruofeng Art & Craft Co. Ltd Models: MY331, MY332 Description: Brush or sisal mesh and sponge head; wooden handle

Evershine International Co. Ltd Model: BA1043 Description: PE mesh head; sponge handle in monkey design

Huizhou Zhonglifa Industrial Co. Ltd Model: SCR109 Description: Sisal mesh; sponge padding; microfiber backing; 7x12cm

Luohe Huahui Daily Articles Co. Ltd Model: HHL-048 Description: Loofah scrub; 10x14.5cm

Shantou Perfect Trading Co. Ltd Model: NMC40 Description: PE mesh head; TPR handle; 100g

Note: This article "Bath scrubs in plant fibers promote user health, safety" was originally published by Global Sources, a leading business-to-business media company and a primary facilitator of trade with China manufacturers and India suppliers, providing essential sourcing information to volume buyers through our e-magazines, trade shows and industry research.

All price quotes in this report are in US dollars unless otherwise specified. FOB prices were provided by the companies interviewed only as reference prices at the time of interview and may have changed.

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