African black soap is a traditional soap that comes from West Africa, crafted from plant-based ingredients like cocoa pod ash, palm kernel oil, coconut oil, and shea butter. It’s made without adding lye, which makes the texture soft and lends a more moisturizing quality. This all-natural soap has been used for centuries and continues to gain popularity for its numerous skin benefits.
What is African Black Soap?
African black soap is originally an all-natural soap produced in different countries in West Africa. 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 unscented, making it suitable for most skin types.
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.
Benefits of African Black Soap
African black soap is lauded for its potential healing properties, and may help with breakouts, hyperpigmentation, stretch marks, and more. Natural antibacterial properties make African black soap an excellent alternative to chemical-laden cleansers. In fact, it may actually remove more bacteria than chemical cleansers do. Studies have shown that it deep cleans and improves skin on par with other soaps, including cleansers with chemicals.
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Here are some of the key benefits of using African black soap:
The CORRECT way to use African Black Soap For Perfect Skin
1. Antibacterial Properties
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.
These properties have positive effects on the skin and can help remove harmful bacteria as well as dirt and impurities.
2. Deep Cleansing
Not only is black soap a facial cleanser, but it also cleans just about anything. Some people use it for doing housework. It can offer a deeper clean due to its exfoliant properties. This may help ensure you remove all the makeup from your skin. It can provide much-needed moisture after you have cleansed your skin.
3. Safe for Most Skin Types
African black soap is unscented and safe for anyone who wants to improve their skin. Always check the label before you buy to make sure there aren’t any additives that might irritate your skin.
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People with oily or combination skin are also in the clear. Black soap can help balance your skin’s natural oil production without stripping necessary oils or adding excess oil to your skin.
4. Acne Treatment
Black soap has been reported to reduce and treat the appearance of acne. In addition to balancing your skin’s natural oils, the soap’s shea content may help repair damaged cells. Its antimicrobial properties may even clear severe acne.
5. Razor Bump Reduction
In a limited survey, 54% of participants said they were “very satisfied” with how black soap cleared their razor bumps, and 40% reported they were “somewhat satisfied”.
6. Skin Rash Relief
Some people use Black soap to help improve eczema. But more research is needed to tell if it’s an effective solution for eczema overall. African black soap that contains shea butter may also soothe itchiness and irritation caused by: eczema, contact dermatitis, skin allergies. It may even help clear rashes related to eczema and psoriasis. To maximize these benefits, find a soap with oatmeal added.
7. Antifungal Properties
Black soap may fight against fungus and yeast. Studies show it’s effective against a yeast called candida albicans. It can help promote skin health by fighting off yeast and fungal infections.
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8. Anti-Aging Effects
Shea butter may help reduce signs of ageing. In turn, this can help plump up fine lines and wrinkles. The rough texture of the soap can also exfoliate dead skin cells that make fine lines more noticeable. Antioxidants found in shea butter can help protect your skin from photoaging.
9. Exfoliation
African black soap is chock-full of natural ingredients, but part of its benefits come from its form. When left unprocessed, the raw ingredients that make up black soap leave the product far less smooth than the average drugstore soap bar. This makes it a natural exfoliant, which may help improve skin texture.
10. Prevents Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is often caused by acne scarring and sun damage - two things that African black soap may help soothe or prevent.
How to Use African Black Soap
You can use African black soap in your skin care and hair care routine. Because it has antifungal properties, it can even be used to fight dandruff on the scalp.
If you have dry or sensitive skin, proceed with caution. Your skin may feel tight after cleansing with black soap, so have a moisturizer on hand. Try to get a black soap that contains shea butter for extra moisturization.
You might get redness or a tingling feeling on your skin at first. Try a patch test before applying it to larger sections of your body.
Steps for Using 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.
You can also use African black soap as shampoo. Because it’s antifungal, it can help treat dandruff.
Precautions
Although African black soap can work well for all skin types, using it correctly is key to preventing unnecessary side effects. Some people find black soap to be drying. You may be able to reduce your risk for this by adding a teaspoon of raw honey to your soap mixture.
If you’re new to raw black soap, consider using it once every couple of days to start. You can gradually increase your use as your skin gets used to the soap. It’s possible to be allergic to any soap. If your skin becomes irritated or you develop a rash, discontinue use.
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.
Is African Black Soap Suitable for All Skin Types?
Yes, African black soap is generally suitable for all skin types. Here’s how it benefits different skin types:
- Acne-Prone Skin: African black soap’s natural antibacterial properties make it effective for those with acne-prone skin.
- Sensitive Skin: Since black soap is made from natural ingredients, it’s gentle on the skin.
- Dry Skin: African black soap contains moisturizing ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil.
- Oily Skin: Despite being moisturizing, black soap doesn’t make oily skin greasier.
- Uneven Skin Tone: The exfoliating properties of black soap can improve skin texture and even out pigmentation.
Potential Side Effects
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.
Conclusion
African black soap is packed with essential nutrients designed to enhance your skin’s natural complexion and help you glow from the inside out. If you’re in the market for a multi-tasking cleanser, African black soap may be what you’re looking for.
Start slowly and cleanse gently, and you’re likely to discover why African black soap has been used for centuries. Washing your face with African black soap can be a beneficial addition to your skincare routine, particularly if you're seeking a natural, gentle cleanser.
