What is Black Soap?
African black soap is a traditionally all-natural soap made in West Africa. They use African plants such as plantain, cocoa pods, palm tree leaves and she tree bark.
The plant parts are collected, sun-dried, and roasted until they turn into ash. Then water and oils such as coconut oil, palm oil and shea butter are added to it and stirred on the heat for 24 hours. When it solidifies, the soap is cured for two weeks before using it.
A traditional recipe for African black soap does not contain dyes, fragrances, or perfumes. If you have dry or sensitive skin, you likely already know that scented soaps and lotions are off-limits, black soap is a good substitute for modern soaps.
African black soap has properties that help remove bacteria. Black soap contains phytochemicals and oils derived from plants. These components are rich in flavonoids, alkaloids, and bioactive compounds that can fight bacterial infections and prevent further infection. Natural antibacterial properties make African black soap an excellent alternative to chemical-laden cleansers. It may remove bacteria more than chemical cleaners do.
Another use for African black soap is to help treat acne. Its antimicrobial properties may even clear severe acne caused by Propionibacterium acnes bacteria. Black soap can help people with oily or combination skin. Black soap can help balance your skin’s natural oil production without stripping necessary oils or adding excess oil to your skin and does not let excess sebum clog your skin pores.
Shea butter is a key component in black soap. As African black soap contains a concoction of oils, along with shea butter, it is very hydrating. The butter and oils enrich the skin, lock in moisture, and keep it plump and hydrated as well as protects your skin from sun damage and minimizes dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
Black soap also soothes itchiness and irritation caused by eczema, skin allergies and dermatitis. It may also clear rashes related to eczema and psoriasis. Black soap 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. Exfoliating will help remove dead skin cells before they can clog your hair follicles.
How can you use black soap? There are a few ways you can use black soap. You can use it raw, make a body wash, use it as a body scrub and use it as a face mask.
To make a body wash simply soak the soap in purified water and let it dissolve and liquefy. You may also add some of our essential oils that add a pleasant smell as well as add extra benefits. Check our essential oils for their benefits and how they can help your personal desires.
To use it as a body scrub mix the black soap with brown or white sugar.
To make black soap into a face mask dissolve tiny chunks of the soap in hot water. Mix 1 teaspoon of honey or aloe vera, 2 teaspoons of coconut charcoal powder, and 5 drops of tea tree essential oil. Apply to your face and neck and wait until it dries. Massage gently and wash it off with water.
