African Black Soap, also known as black soap, is a traditional cleansing product originating from West Africa. This recently trending ‘must-have’ for your skin care routine has a history of use that goes back quite some time. Unlike synthetic soaps found in drugstores, authentic black soap is handmade from plant-based ingredients. So while some may swear by its ability to cleanse and nourish many different skin types, you may be wondering - is it worth the hype?
With natural antibacterial and exfoliating properties, African black soap acts gently to improve skin texture and tone. African black soap is quite versatile and it can be used for a different range of purposes.
What is African Black Soap?
African black soap is a traditionally all-natural soap made in West Africa. African black soap is a traditional, plant-based soap from West Africa. African black soap was first produced in West Africa centuries ago.
Dermatologist Alok Vij, MD, breaks down the benefits of African black soap and the right way to use it.
Generally, African black soap doesn’t contain lye (a common soap component). It’s usually unscented without dyes or other additives. Traditional recipes are free from dyes, fragrances, and other additives that take away from the purity. However, people concerned about additives may wish to check the label to make sure that the product does not contain any.
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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.
Types of African Black Soap
As the demand for African black soap has boomed, so has the variety of soaps available. Some are traditional, others more processed. And you have a wide selection of natural ingredients to choose from.
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.
Benefits of African Black Soap
“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.”
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Dr. Vij cites 12 potential benefits of African black soap 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.
“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.”
Here are some potential benefits of African Black Soap:
- Antibacterial Properties: African black soap has properties that help remove bacteria from the skin. 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 was more effective at removing and reducing certain bacteria than the medicated soaps.
- Deep Cleansing: African black soap is an excellent natural cleanser. African black soap’s natural ingredients make it a thorough facial cleanser and makeup remover. It gently removes dirt, excess oil, and impurities without stripping your skin of essential moisture. Its oils and butters help dissolve makeup, while it effectively removes dirt from your face or body. According to one study, this is a common use for black soap.
- Exfoliation: African black soap contains natural exfoliants like plantain skins and cocoa pods. African black soap is naturally exfoliating. Exfoliation can help remove dead skin, leaving the skin fresher and cleaner after use. 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.
- 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. 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. The oil and butter in African black soap may help soothe skin to prevent the aftereffects of razor burn. Use it before shaving to soften your hair and make shaving easier. Another study also indicated that African black soap may help reduce razor bumps and other blemishes. Men and women alike can use black soap for a smooth shaving experience. “For some patients with acne or razor burn, mechanical exfoliation can make the condition flare up instead of get better,” says Dr. Vij. “As always, beware when using a new product to see which way your skin goes.”
- 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. If you suffer from eczema or other skin conditions, black soap’s soothing ingredients can provide relief. People with eczema often find relief with African black soap. Similar to eczema, psoriasis can benefit from the gentle properties of African black soap. 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.
- Treats fungus: Some research suggests African black soap may help control skin fungus, including a yeast called Candida albicans. According to one study, African black soap may help prevent the spread of fungal infections, including Candida albicans yeast. 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.
- 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. African black soap moisturizes your skin without leaving it dry. 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. “Some people do find that African black soap can dry their skin,” says Dr. Vij. “If that’s the case, you can use less or try another brand with more moisturizing ingredients.”
- 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. That being said, anecdotal evidence does support the use of African black soap to help prevent fine lines. For example, people believe that the soap may prevent fine lines and wrinkles due to its antioxidant properties. These properties may help fight against damaging free radicals.
- 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: Thanks to its antibacterial properties, black soap can be a game-changer for acne-prone skin. Another use for African black soap is to help treat acne. African black soap may improve acne and balance the natural oils in your skin. “African black soap may work for some people who have breakouts,” Dr. Vij says. “The soap helps exfoliate your skin and open pores, while the sulfur and honey reduce inflammation.” 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.” The majority of participants in the survey found that black soap helped with their reported skin conditions.
- 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. “There is some evidence that the yeast which drives dandruff, or seborrheic dermatitis, can actually grow in cocoa butter or shea butter, so patients with dandruff may see their skin condition get worse instead of better,” says Dr. Vij. Yes, African black soap isn’t just for your skin! It’s also great for your hair.
Here is a table summarizing the potential benefits of African Black Soap:
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| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Antibacterial Properties | Helps remove bacteria from the skin |
| Deep Cleansing | Removes dirt, excess oil, and impurities |
| Exfoliation | Removes dead skin cells, improving skin texture |
| Reduces Razor Burn | Soothes skin to prevent aftereffects of shaving |
| Helps with Skin Rashes | Improves rashes caused by eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis |
| Treats Fungus | Controls skin fungus, including Candida albicans |
| Moisturizes | Adds moisture with shea butter and prevents excess oiliness with coconut oil |
| Reduces Wrinkles | Shea butter and coconut oil may plump up wrinkles and fine lines |
| Protects against oxidative stress | Antioxidants protect skin from free radicals and discoloration |
| Reduces inflammation | Vitamins A and E help shield skin against inflammation |
| Treats Acne | Exfoliates skin, opens pores, and reduces inflammation |
| Treats Dandruff | Moisturizing ingredients may help treat dandruff |
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.
Real, unprocessed African black soap has a rough texture. Although the natural texture is ideal for removing dead skin during exfoliation, you’ll want to smooth it out before using it as a regular cleanser.
To do this, simply pull a small chunk of soap off of the bar and rub in between your hands. If you prefer a liquid cleanser, you can dissolve your piece of soap in water before use.
You can apply the bar directly to your skin if you’re looking for exfoliation, but be gentle! The rough texture is already an exfoliant in itself, so you don’t have to scrub. You may also consider rubbing the bar on a soft washcloth first for gentle cleansing or use on rashes.
With whatever method you choose, make sure that you thoroughly rinse the soap off with lukewarm water after use. Afterward, apply your favorite moisturizer to your damp skin. This will help lock in the soap’s natural hydrating effects.
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. Yes, you can use it daily, but moderation is key. 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!
Like any skincare product, moderation is key. It’s best to use African black soap once or twice a day. Overusing black soap may lead to irritation or sensitivity. Overusing it may lead to dryness or irritation. If you notice any adverse effects, reduce the frequency.
Potential Side Effects and Considerations
As with all natural products there are some considerations to have when using african black soap on your skin.
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.
Although African black soap can work well for all skin types, using it correctly is key to preventing unnecessary side effects. It’s possible to be allergic to any soap. If your skin becomes irritated or you develop a rash, discontinue use.
Some people find black soap to be drying. If you’re new to raw black soap, consider using it once every couple of days to start. You may be able to reduce your risk for this by adding a teaspoon of raw honey to your soap mixture. You can gradually increase your use as your skin gets used to the soap. While black soap is gentle, it can still have a drying effect on some skin types. To prevent this, follow up with a good moisturizer after cleansing.
Natural black soap is also rough, so it can irritate or even break your skin if you’re not careful. Stinging and burning are also possible. If you’re using a raw block of soap, use gentle, circular motions as you glide it along your skin.
The best way to prevent skin breakage is to smooth out the soap and combine it with water, or use it with a washcloth.
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.
Is African Black Soap Safe?
For most people, African black soap tends to be safe. At the moment, research suggests that African black soap is safe for most people to use. African black soap is safe to use on most skin types. Its natural ingredients make it gentle yet effective.
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 is packed with essential nutrients designed to enhance your skin’s natural complexion and help you glow from the inside out. Nourish and care for your skin
“Start slowly and cleanse gently, and you’re likely to discover why African black soap has been used for centuries,” says Dr. Vij.
