Have you heard about the skin care benefits of African black soap? This recently trending ‘must-have’ for your skin care routine has a history of use that goes back quite some time. African black soap is a traditional, plant-based soap from West Africa. 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?
African Black Soap, commonly referred to as Anago Samina, is a type of natural cleaner. African Black Soap is essential for African-descent skincare since it has several skin-friendly properties. It keeps getting more popular because of the unique qualities that make it possible to treat many skin disorders, including eczema and acne, as well as rashes, irritation, and inflammation.
Dermatologist Alok Vij, MD, breaks down the benefits of African black soap and the right way to use it. “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.”
Let’s start by looking at the components of African Black Soap. The ingredients of this soap are made out of natural ingredients, which have a powerful combination of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. An extraordinary blend of substances found in African Black Soap works to cleanse, cure, and promote healthy hair development on the scalp.
DIY African Black Soap Shampoo For Hair Growth| Cleanses Scalp, Strengthens And Promote Growth
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.
Read also: Dandruff Control Shampoo Analysis
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.
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 for Hair
“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.”
Dr. Vij cites potential benefits of African black soap for your hair:
Read also: Reviving Textured Hair with Black Soap
- 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.
- Deep cleans your scalp African black soap cleans your scalp and removes harmful germs and fungi that can irritate and cause inflammation.
- Exfoliates to help improve scalp texture and tone African black soap 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- May reduce the appearance of aging Your worry can be eased if you use African Black Soap. This is because it has substances that prevent hair from aging.
- 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.
- Treats dandruff Yes! You can shampoo with African black soap, too. It may even help treat dandruff, thanks to its moisturizing ingredients.
This soap is especially effective for treating eczema and reducing constant itching. It also functions as an anti-bacterial agent. Staph bacteria or fungus can cause follicular rash or folliculitis to develop. Are you worried about balding or extreme hair loss? This improved circulation is critical for transporting vital nutrients that energize your follicles and encourage healthy hair development. African black soap can aid you in keeping moisture in your hair if you are a sucker for good hair hydration.
How to Use African Black Soap for Hair
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.
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!
Read also: Shampoo Guide for Textured Hair
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.
Nourish and Care for Your Hair
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,” says Dr. Vij. What is African Black soap, and how is it beneficial for me? This may be one of the few questions running through your mind when you encounter this term.
