African black soap, also popularly known as black soap, is an all-natural soap specifically made in regions of West Africa. This product has been gaining popularity recently for many skincare reasons, such as the 12 health benefits discussed below.
In making black soap bars, traditional recipes call for palm kernel oil and the filtrate of burnt cocoa pod ash. Black soap is free from dyes, fragrances, and other additives that take away the purity of natural soaps.
What Is African Black Soap?
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.
Touted as a solution for breakouts, hyperpigmentation, stretch marks, and everything in between, black soap is the ultimate beauty buy for those on a budget. And unlike the synthetic soaps you find at the drugstore, authentic black soap is handmade from plant-based ingredients in Africa.
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 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.
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.
The authentic African black soap is brown or grey in colour 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
1.It is safe for most skin types
A traditional recipe for African black soap does not contain dyes, fragrances, or perfumes. So, for people with sensitive skin and those who are allergic to certain additives, black soap is a good substitute for modern soaps.
If a person has any sensitivities to dyes, fragrances, or perfumes, however, they should check the label before buying African black soap.
2.It has antibacterial properties
African black soap has properties that help remove bacteria from the skin. One study in the Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology Research compared African black soap with medicated soaps. The study looked at how effective black soap was at stopping bacteria such as:
Staphylococcus aureus
Staphylococcus epidermidis
Bacillus spp.
Escherichia coli
Corynebacterium spp.
Black soap was more effective at removing and reducing certain bacteria than the medicated soaps.
1.It helps treats acne
Another use for African black soap is to help treat acne. According to a survey that questioned 100 users of black soap, 23 percent use it for acne treatment. Out of the 23 percent, 39 percent reported that they were
“very satisfied”
with results, while 44 percent were somewhat satisfied.
Most participants in the survey found that black soap helped with their reported skin conditions.
2.It helps reduce fine lines
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 this is effective.
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.
3.It is moisturizing
Shea butter is a crucial ingredient in black soap. While shea can help relieve itchiness and soothe dry skin, cocoa and coconut oil add moisture.
4.It won’t make your skin oily
If you have combination skin, black soap makes choosing the right soap that much easier. Shea may add moisture, but coconut oil may help prevent overactive oil glands.
5.It helps soothe irritation
African black soap 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.
1.It helps improve skin texture
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.
2. It helps prevent razor burn and related rashes
Exfoliation is another key factor in keeping your skin smooth after:
Shaving
Waxing
Other methods of hair removal
Exfoliating will help remove dead skin cells before they can clog your hair follicles. The moisture in African black soap may also help prevent the lumps and bumps that result from razor burn.
1.It helps with makeup removal
Some research shows that African black soap is an effective makeup remover. According to one study, this is a common use for black soap. A research survey also indicated that people can use the soap for overall skincare. Risks And Side Effects
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.
There are no known side effects or risks associated with using African black soap. However, research into its use and potential effects is ongoing.
Now, research suggests that African black soap is safe for most people to use.
Sources:
Comments