Black soap, what is it?
One of the oldest and most popular beauty products in Africa is the use of black soap, also known as Dudu Osun. To this day, black soap is produced mainly in Ghana and Nigeria. It is known for its positive effects on a variety of skin problems, including the elimination of blemishes, oily skin, irritation, dryness and even stretch marks. The soap is a traditional beauty secret and was exported by immigrants all over the world.
With the help of the exfoliating properties of black soap and its ability to stimulate cell renewal, a fresher complexion can be achieved. It contains olive oil, black olives and potash (potassium chloride). It is rich in vitamin E, which has a positive effect on the skin. In the hammam, you can use the black soap for natural exfoliation for the body and face.
For whom is the black soap suitable?
Very well tolerated, black soap is suitable for all skin types, as it does not contain dyes, fragrances, or perfumes. So for people with sensitive skin and people who are allergic to certain additives, the black soap is an ideal substitute for modern soaps.
Since black soap consists of only three main ingredients, it is very well tolerated even by sensitive skin. It balances the sebum production and oil content of the skin and reduces acne, blackheads and pimples, as well as redness irritation, and dryness.
What are the ingredients in black soap?
Originating from Africa, black soap is made from three basic ingredients.
- Water to boil the soap.
- Oils and fats, such as palm oil, coconut oil and shea butter.
- The ashes of burnt palm parts and cocoa fruit shells.
Lemon juice honey, and aloe vera are other possible ingredients, depending on the recipe. The carefully selected oils protect the skin from drying during cleansing, they also nourish and regenerate the skin. The ash gives the soap a deep black hue, serves as a source of the necessary lye (without which no soap can be made) and effectively removes dirt and grime. Only water is needed for the soap making process itself.
The main properties of African black soap
The antibacterial properties of black soap make it an ideal remedy for cleansing acne and other skin impurities. As reported in the Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology Research, this soap has been shown to be effective against the following microorganisms.
- Staphylococcus aureus
- Staphylococcus epidermidis
- Bacillus spp.
- Escherichia coli
- Corynebacterium spp.
Black soap was more effective in removing and reducing certain bacteria than those of medicated soaps.
Black soap can help in acne treatments
In addition to its many uses, black soap can also be used to treat acne. In a survey, 39 percent of black soap users said they were very satisfied with the results, 44 percent were satisfied, and 23 percent rated it as good. In general, however, survey participants confirmed the soap’s overwhelmingly good effects.
Black soap can reduce wrinkles
Shea butter and coconut oil have been shown to stimulate the production of new collagen and slow its breakdown. This, in turn, can help fill in wrinkles. Dead skin cells that accumulate on your face and accentuate your fine lines can be scrubbed away by the abrasive texture of the soap.
It helps improve skin texture
African black soap is packed to the brim with natural ingredients. The basic ingredients in black soap make it far less slippery than store-bought bar soap. For this reason, it can be used as a natural exfoliant to improve skin texture.
It prevents razor burn and associated skin rashes
Black soap is also popular in this application after hair removal to restore the skin’s natural moisture balance. Dead skin cells can clog hair follicles, but can be removed by exfoliation. The moisturizing properties of black soap can also reduce the formation of razor burn.
Black soap is antifungal
Including the common yeast Candida albicans, black soap was found to be effective against a total of seven different types of fungi in a recent study. Consequently, black soap can also be used to treat toenail and foot fungus.
Where do all these benefits come from?
The benefits of African black soap come from the synergistic effects of its many ingredients.
- Cocoa pods
- Coconut oil
- Palm leaf derivatives, including palm kernel oil and palm oil
- Plantain bark, which contains iron, as well as vitamins A and E
- Shea butter
Note that the ingredients of black soap vary greatly depending on where in Africa it is made.
Black soap containing essential oils such as eucalyptus has become increasingly popular in recent years as a stress reliever. Certain black soap bars may have additional oatmeal or aloe vera added.
The black soap is still available as other care products
- Shower gel – you can also use the soap in the shower.
- Shampoo – as a hair soap Dudu-Osun (at Amazon) is also suitable for all hair types. The nourishing oils make a cream rinse unnecessary. With a subsequent conditioner your hair shines naturally beautiful.
- Shaving foam – according to the manufacturer, the creamy foam of the soap should also be so firm that you can shave with it.
Conclusion
Due to its high nutrient content, African Black Soap can help restore your skin’s natural radiance and enhance your inner beauty. Start using the soap once a day and gradually increase it to twice a day for best results. If you experience unusual skin rashes or irritation, discontinue use and consult your doctor or dermatologist.
