I bought this and the one with the longer handle for the back --- i thought it would soften with soap and water --- it remained hard as a rock --- i simply could not use it unless i wanted to scrape my skin off --- i have never used a loofa before and can't believe that people use things that are this hard on their skin... perhaps if you wrapped a hand towel around it you might be able to use it, but by itself you will damage your skin and draw blood...