What is African black soap?
With natural antibacterial and exfoliating properties, African black soap acts gently to improve skin texture and tone. The soap also reduces inflammation and may help treat some signs of aging like dark spots or wrinkles. You can use African black soap on your face, hands, body - even your hair.
African black soap was first produced in West Africa centuries ago. Today, its exact ingredients depend on where it is made.
Generally, African black soap doesn't contain lye (a common soap component). It's usually unscented without dyes or other additives.
Most African black soaps contain one or more of these ingredients:
- Cocoa pod ash, cocoa powder, or cocoa butter.
- Coconut oil.
- Palm kernel oil and palm oil.
- Plantain skin ash, leaves, or bark.
- Shea butter.
Some African black soaps include honey, aloe vera, lime, or camwood (a central West African tree) to enhance their ability to heal, protect, and moisturize your skin. Others contain essential oils or oatmeal. Check labels for specific information, especially if you have allergies to skin care products.
What does African black soap do
African black soap, traditionally made from natural ingredients like plantain skins, cocoa pods, palm tree leaves, and shea butter, is known for its numerous benefits for the skin. Here's what it can do:
Cleansing: African black soap is an excellent natural cleanser, helping to remove dirt, oil, and impurities from the skin without stripping away natural oils.
Acne Treatment: Its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it effective in treating acne, reducing breakouts, and soothing irritated skin.
Moisturizing: The shea butter in African black soap helps to hydrate and nourish the skin, making it suitable for dry skin types.
Exfoliation: The soap's texture provides gentle exfoliation, helping to remove dead skin cells and reveal smoother, brighter skin.
Even Skin Tone: African black soap can help fade dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and acne scars, promoting a more even skin tone over time.
Anti-Aging: Rich in antioxidants, African black soap can help combat the signs of aging by protecting the skin from free radical damage.
Eczema and Psoriasis Relief: The natural ingredients in African black soap can provide relief for conditions like eczema and psoriasis by reducing inflammation and irritation.
Improves Skin Texture: Regular use of African black soap can help improve the overall texture of the skin, making it softer and smoother.
How to Use It
Before applying the soap to larger sections of your body, patch-test the product (especially if you have sensitive skin) to ensure there are no adverse reactions. To cleanse, lather the soap in your hands before applying it to your body. Your skin may feel tight after cleansing with black soap, so have a moisturizer handy.
Is It Safe to Use Every Day?
To avoid the aforementioned irritations, start by using African black soap slowly, easing it up to daily use. Otu says, "Try to use it about two to three times a week alongside a gentler cleanser." As a deep cleanser and exfoliator, be cautious and pay attention to your skin's response. If you experience irritation that persists or worsens, consult a board-certified dermatologist.
