Black soap is a natural soap product originally created by the inhabitants of West Africa. Including ingredients as diverse as shea butter, coconut oil, palm kernel oil and the ashes of banana leaves, palm leaves and tree bark, black soap is a potent cleansing agent. While relatively few studies have been performed on the effectiveness of black soap on the skin, proponents of the products claim benefits ranging from reducing acne and oily skin to soothing inflammatory conditions such as eczema. Generally soft, scentless and flexible, black soap can make an invigorating addition to your skin care routine.
Step 1
Place the black soap on a cutting board or wooden block and cut off a small piece of 1 to 2 inches square. If desired, lightly rinse your face with hot or warm water to prepare the pores for cleaning.
Step 2
Run the soap under warm water and rub it vigorously between your hands. Apply the lather to your face and gently rub the section of black soap along your entire face. If desired, create a black soap exfoliating rub by adding 1 tsp. of large-flake sea salt to the bar while rubbing your face.
Step 3
Work the soap into a lather in your hands once again and close your eyes as your apply the lather to your face. Rub one last time with the warm water before completely rinsing away the soap. Pat your face dry with a towel and place the remaining soap section on top of the soap block.
Step 4
Complete a full-body wash by cutting off length of black soap the size of your index finger and applying it in the shower with the help of exfoliating shower gloves. Put on the gloves and, holding the soap, rub your entire body using circular motions until your entire body has been covered with the soap suds. Rinse off in warm water and dry off with a towel.
Tips and Warnings
- Because black soap has become popular, a number of companies are producing low-quality black soap with artificial dyes, colorings and other additives. Ask around and do some research before selecting on the right black soap product for you.
- If you happen to get soap in your eyes, immediately flush with water as you would with any type of soap. Contact your dermatologist or personal physician if you encounter any skin reactions or irritations.
Things You'll Need
- Kitchen knife
- Cutting board or wooden block
- 1 tsp. large flake sea salt (optional)
- Towel
- Exfoliating bath gloves
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