African black soap is a traditionally all-natural soap made in West Africa. This soap isn’t limited to just cleansing the skin. African black soap has antibacterial properties which can help improve certain skin conditions, and might even slow down some signs of aging.
African black soap (also called African soap or black soap) is the latest skin care product to reach “holy grail” status, and for good reason. Share on PinterestAfrican black soap is safe to use on most skin types.
What is African Black Soap?
African black soap is originally an all-natural soap produced in different countries in West Africa. 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.
“African black soap has been around for ages, but we’re learning more and more how powerful and effective this cleanser can be,” says Dr. Vij. “Used properly, it can help protect your skin and may treat a variety of common skin conditions, from dandruff to acne.”
Exact recipes depend on where the soap originated from, but most include palm kernel oil, and the filtrate of burnt cocoa pod ash or roasted plantain skin ash. Other additions can include aloe vera, honey, shea butter, lime, or camwood - a tree native to central West Africa. African black soap is made without adding lye, which makes the texture soft and lends a more moisturizing quality. It’s also unscented, making it suitable for most skin types.
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Authentic African Black Soap
There are many kinds of African black soap available on the market today. Some are more processed than others. Try to find one with the least amount of processing possible.
To find authentic African black soap, look for a soap that’s brown or grey in color, and has an uneven surface. It should be slightly crumbly around the edges. Read the label to make sure there aren’t any additives you don’t want in your soap. The real thing - authentic African black soap - is handmade with a dark gray or brown color and an uneven surface.
It’s softer than commercial (machine-made) soaps, so its edges may slightly crumble. When it comes to this unique soap, imperfection is a good sign. If possible, buy fair-trade black soap. Each fair-trade purchase supports sustainable production, and, in some cases, it directly benefits communities in need. Authentic African Black Soap is still made today by the people of the Yoruban tribe located in Nigeria.
Secret black soap formulas are carefully guarded as they are passed down through generation. The soap is based on the ancient art of ash treatment finding a revival of interest today. As difficult as it is to obtain genuine African black soap it is no wonder so many imitations exist, even in Africa itself.
What Does African Black Soap Do for Your Skin?
Studies have shown that it deep cleans and improves skin on par with other soaps, including cleansers with chemicals. In a 2017 survey of 100 clients at New York dermatology clinics, 94% said they were either “very satisfied” or “somewhat satisfied” with using African black soap overall for their skin care.
Read also: Oily Skin Solutions
“African black soap has multiple uses for every skin type, with benefits beyond providing a deep clean,” says Dr. Vij. “We need more research to confirm whether it does even more than clean, but the results so far are promising.”
Potential Benefits of African Black Soap
The sections below list some of the potential benefits of African black soap. Dr. Vij cites 12 potential benefits of African black soap for your skin.
- Removes bacteria: Studies show that African black soap’s natural antibacterial ingredients work better than medicated cleansers to remove certain harmful bacteria, dirt and other impurities. Black soap has antibacterial properties. Studies show this natural cleanser works better than medicated soaps when removing the following bacteria:
- Escherichia coli
- Corynebacterium spp.
- Staphylococcus aureus
- Staphylococcus epidermidis
- Bacillus spp.
- Deep cleans your skin: African black soap’s natural ingredients make it a thorough facial cleanser and makeup remover. Its oils and butters help dissolve makeup, while it effectively removes dirt from your face or body.
- Exfoliates to help improve skin texture and tone: African black soap is much less smooth than other soaps, due to the ashes used to produce the soap, so it works as a natural exfoliant, removing dead skin cells before they clog pores and hair follicles. The plantain skins and leaves found in African black soap are naturally high in vitamin A, which can brighten your complexion, too. “It’s a good alternative to chemical products if you’re looking for a product with natural ingredients,” says Dr. Vij. African black soap is naturally exfoliating. Exfoliation can help remove dead skin, leaving the skin fresher and cleaner after use.
- Reduces or prevents razor burn: If you’re used to having irritated skin or razor bumps after you shave, you may want to give African black soap a try. The oil and butter in African black soap may help soothe skin to prevent the aftereffects of razor burn. In the survey of 100 users of African black soap, 92% said they were either “very satisfied” or “somewhat satisfied” with African black soap for razor bumps. Use it before shaving to soften your hair and make shaving easier.
According to the same research survey, 46% of people who use black soap for razor bumps reported being “very satisfied” with the results. Also, 46% reported being “somewhat satisfied.” Another study also indicated that African black soap may help reduce razor bumps and other blemishes.
According to a research survey, 45% of people reported being “very satisfied” and 40% reported being “somewhat satisfied” with the use of black soap for reducing the appearance of dark spots.
- Helps with mild skin rashes: Some people use African black soap to improve rashes caused by eczema and other types of dermatitis, psoriasis and skin allergies. More research is needed to confirm these benefits of African black soap, says Dr. Vij. If your rash symptoms persist or worsen, even while using the soap, talk to your healthcare provider about treatment options.
A research survey showed that 7% of participants use black soap to treat eczema. Of those who use black soap for eczema, 29% were “very satisfied” with results, while 71% were “somewhat satisfied.” Researchers need more evidence to fully prove the effectiveness of black soap for reducing eczema, however.
Read also: The Miracle of African Black Soap
- Treats fungus: Some research suggests African black soap may help control skin fungus, including a yeast called Candida albicans. That means you may be able to use it to treat conditions like athlete’s foot and toenail fungus. The soap also may help control dandruff caused by fungus. According to one study, African black soap may help prevent the spread of fungal infections, including Candida albicans yeast.
- Moisturizes without stripping essential oils: African black soap’s multiple ingredients help strike a balance - shea butter adds moisture to your skin while coconut oil prevents excess oiliness. These oils and fats lock in moisture but wash off well with water, so you’re not left with a buildup that can clog pores. Use African black soap to relieve dry skin or itchiness, especially if you have combination skin.
- May reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines: Research is needed to know whether African black soap can reduce the visible effects of aging. Shea butter and coconut oil may help plump up wrinkles and fine lines by slowing the loss of collagen, a fiber-like protein that helps make our tissues strong. Exfoliation can also make fine lines less visible. According to a limited research survey, a small proportion of participants use African black soap to reduce fine lines or wrinkles. However, researchers need more evidence to prove whether or not this is effective.
- Protects against oxidative stress: Exposure to air contaminants, UV radiation from the sun, skin care products and cosmetics affect your skin every day. You can see some of these changes with the naked eye - like dark spots or wrinkles. Others, such as free radical damage to skin cells, are invisible. Antioxidants in African black soap may help protect your skin from these effects and help discoloration fade.
- Reduces inflammation: Rich in vitamins A and E, African black soap’s antioxidants help shield your skin against inflammation and free radicals that damage skin cells. You may find this helpful for inflammatory skin conditions like rosacea.
- Treats acne: African black soap may improve acne and balance the natural oils in your skin. According to a survey that questioned 100 users of black soap, 23% use it for acne treatment. Out of the 23%, 39% reported that they were “very satisfied” with results, while 44% were “somewhat satisfied.”
- Treats dandruff: Yes! You can shampoo with African black soap, too. It may even help treat dandruff, thanks to its moisturizing ingredients. Use it like any other shampoo, lathering it into your hair and then rinsing it out. Because it has antifungal properties, it can even be used to fight dandruff on the scalp.
Using African Black Soap For Acne
How to Use African Black Soap
It may take some getting used to, but soon, African black soap could become a favorite part of your self-care regimen. First, try a little bit on a small area of your body (patch test), especially if you have dry or sensitive skin.
For extra moisturizing, if your skin feels tight after cleansing, choose a black soap that contains shea butter. You can also try adding honey to your soap. Remember, a little goes a long way. Using too much African black soap can dry out or irritate your skin.
You may find it best to use this soap only two to three times a week, switching it up with a gentler cleanser on the other days. Dr. Vij offers these extra tips:
- Cut or pull a small portion of soap off the bar or dissolve it in water, so it’s smoother and gentler to use.
- Lather the soap into your hands before applying to your face, body or hair.
- Massage it into your skin with your hands or a washcloth for about 90 seconds in circular motions.
- Rinse off completely.
- Apply moisturizer and hair conditioner.
Follow these steps to use African black soap on your face:
- Wet your face, then grab the soap and work it into a lather in your hands.
- Massage the soap into your skin in circular motions for 90 seconds.
- For extra exfoliation, use a washcloth or other exfoliating tool before rinsing (optional).
- Rinse with cool water.
- Apply moisturizer.
There is a chance that some particles in the soap may cause mild irritation when a person rubs them directly onto the skin. To prevent this, a person can lather the soap instead and use that to clean the skin or hair.
Is it Safe to Use African Black Soap Every Day?
Yes, it’s safe to add African black soap to your daily skin care routine. Clean and refresh your skin once or twice a day (morning and at bedtime) with the soap, followed by a skin toner and moisturizer. And don’t forget sunscreen!
Side effects depend on your skin type and any allergies or intolerances you may have. Some soaps irritate those who have eczema or are sensitive to dyes, fragrances or other ingredients, like sulfur or cocoa. If your skin becomes red or irritated, try switching brands or discontinue use.
Also be careful not to use this soap with chemical exfoliants. The combination may be too strong for your skin. If you have symptoms that persist or worsen, consult your dermatologist.
Precautions and Potential Side Effects
For most people, African black soap tends to be safe. A person should look for authentic African black soap and read the product labels carefully to find out what other ingredients the soap contains. Authentic African black soap is all natural and will not contain dyes or fragrances.
African black soap may cause irritation or redness. To help alleviate this, people should only use a small amount of it. Instead of applying it directly to the skin, a person should work a small piece of soap into a lather in their hands. They can then rub the lather over their damp face, body, or hair. They should then wash the soap off with warm water. If they have used it on the hair, they should apply their conditioner of choice following the wash.
There are no known side effects or risks associated with using African black soap. However, research into its use and potential effects is ongoing.
| Use Case | Very Satisfied | Somewhat Satisfied |
|---|---|---|
| Acne Treatment | 39% | 44% |
| Reducing Dark Spots | 45% | 40% |
| Razor Bumps | 46% | 46% |
| Eczema Treatment | 29% | 71% |
| Overall Skincare | 94% (Very or Somewhat Satisfied) | |
Final Thoughts
If you’re in the market for a multi-tasking cleanser, African black soap may be what you’re looking for. At the moment, research suggests that African black soap is safe for most people to use.
“Start slowly and cleanse gently, and you’re likely to discover why African black soap has been used for centuries,” says Dr. Vij. The soap of miracles, our 100% Raw African Black Soap, is the must-have cleansing soap to include in your hair and skincare routine.
