African black soap is revered for having skin nourishing benefits due to an abundance of antioxidants.

Why is Black Soap Different from other Soaps?

Also known as west African Black Soap or “anago” or dudu-osum this uniquely formulated soap has long been used by women in west Africa as a balm to heal and soften acne-prone or dry skin. It is also recommended as an anti-ageing preparation and is an excellent addition to your beauty routine. The soap is traditionally made in West Africa, most frequently in Ghana, and often (but not always) form part of fair-trade agreements. Recipes for the soap are usually regarded as top-secret.

What are the Benefits of Black Soap

The soap assists in improving the appearance of fine lines, evens out uneven skin tone and dark spots, soothes eczema, razor bumps improving the appearance of small scars. The soap also acts as an exfoliating product to reveal new skin beneath dryer, damaged layers. Suitable for both The soap for face, body or hair, it also works on oily skin, very dry skin and scalp irritations, and will leave the skin sweet smelling.

How is Black Soap Made?

The soap is generally made using the healing and soothing ash of a variety of local plants and barks. These include cocoa pods, Musa paradisiaca or “plantain”, palm tree leaves, and shea tree bark. In the first step of the process the ingredients are dried in the sun. The dry leaves are pot-roasted in a large kettle at a moderate temperature. This constant moderate temperature ensures that the correct color, fragrance and texture is obtained. Then water, palm oil, palm kernel oil, coconut oil, shea butter and cocoa pod powder are added and the kettle is stirred for 24 hours. The soap is cured for two weeks.

The healing properties of Black Soap

The combination of organic ingredients imbue the soap with a variety of healing and moisturising properties. The moist and rich plantain skins provide a store of the vitamins A and E and a plentiful supply of iron as well as antioxidants, protein, folic acid, B vitamins, potassium, and vitamin C. Palm kernel oil contains high levels of fatty acids.