Choose the Original African net if you want a firmer scrub and already exfoliate. Choose the Sensitive net if your skin reacts easily, you are new to exfoliating, or you are buying for someone with delicate skin. Both lather and dry fast; the Sensitive weave is softer.
An African exfoliating net - also called an African net sponge or sapo - is the long, stretchy bathing net West African households have kept in the bathroom for generations. The two sisters behind Cee Cee's Closet NYC grew up with one hanging in the shower. The only real question is how firm you want it to feel.
What is the difference between the Original and Sensitive African net?
The difference is the weave and the length. The Original net has firm, tight knots for a vigorous scrub. The Sensitive net has a softer, more flexible weave that is gentle enough for daily washing, and it is also the longer of the two. Both reach across your back, lather fast and hang dry quickly.
| Original African Net | Sensitive African Net | |
|---|---|---|
| Feel | Firm, tight knots for a vigorous scrub | Softer, more flexible weave |
| Price | $17.99 | $14 |
| Colors | Our widest range, from Royal Blue and Merlot to Sky and Denim Blue | A smaller edit, including Mermaid, Straw, Noir and Ice |
| Size (stretched) | About 42 x 16 inches | About 45 to 50 x 16 to 20 inches |
| How often | 2 to 3 times a week | Every day |
| Lasts | 2+ years with care | 2+ years with care |
| Best for | Regular exfoliators; rough spots like elbows, knees and heels | First-time net users, skin that reacts easily, kids and grandparents |
Both nets are hand cut, so size varies a little from net to net. Both are also hand-dyed, so run a new net under warm water, or through one wash, before its first shower. See every shade of both in our African Exfoliating Nets collection.
Who should use the Sensitive net?
The Sensitive net suits anyone whose skin turns red or feels raw after a scrub, anyone new to exfoliating, and anyone buying for kids or older relatives. Many people with sensitive skin prefer the African Exfoliating Net - Sensitive because the softer weave glides instead of grips, with less friction in every stroke.
Friction is the thing to watch. The American Academy of Dermatology notes that mechanical exfoliation may be too irritating for dry or sensitive skin, and that if you use a brush or sponge, you should use short, light strokes. A softer net makes light strokes easy: let the lather do the work instead of pressing hard.
At $14, it is also the easiest way to try an African net for the first time.
Can you switch from Sensitive to Original later?
Yes. Plenty of people start with the Sensitive net, get comfortable with the stretch-and-scrub motion across the back, and move up to the Original once they want more texture. There is no wrong order. Build up slowly, and let your skin tell you when it is ready for a firmer scrub.
Keeping both works well too. Reach for the African Exfoliating Net on heels, knees and elbows, and keep the Sensitive net for your chest, neck and softer days.
Ready to move up? The Cloud Nine Glow Bundle pairs an Original net with a 3.4 oz Unscented Dry Body Oil for $48. Our dry oils contain sweet almond oil, so skip the bundle if you have a nut allergy.
Which net is better for kids or older adults?
The Sensitive net is the better choice for kids and older adults. The softer weave gives the same rich lather and full-body reach with a gentler feel, and its extra length makes it easier to hold both ends and reach your own back. If you are buying one net for everybody in the house, start here.
Bath time should feel easy for everyone, from toddlers to grandparents. For more ways families use it, read our guide to the soft African net for kids and seniors.
How often should you use each one?
Use the Original net two to three times a week. The Sensitive net is soft enough to use every day. If you own both, let the Original do the deeper scrub a few times a week and reach for the Sensitive net on the days in between, so your skin stays smooth without feeling stripped.
That clean, squeaky feeling is tempting, but more is not better with a firm tool. The AAD warns that over-exfoliating can leave skin red and irritated. For a full breakdown by skin type, read how often you should exfoliate your body.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Sensitive net less effective?
No. It is gentler, not weaker. It still lifts away buildup, lathers your body wash and reaches across your whole back.
Which colors are in stock?
Our nets are hand-dyed in small runs, so shades rotate. Check the Original and Sensitive product pages for what is in stock today.
Can I use the Sensitive net daily?
Yes, Queen. The softer weave is made for everyday washing. Use short, light strokes and let the lather do the work.
What should I put on after?
While your skin is still damp, smooth on Body Silk first, then body butter, then finish with dry body oil last to seal it all in.
