Benefits of African Black Soap

Benefits of African Black Soap
Photo Credit bars of soap image by Jale Evsen Duran from Fotolia.com

African black soap, also referred to as black soap, is made from harvested and air-dried plantain skins, palm leaves, cocoa pod powder, and various oils and butters; coconut oil, Shea butter, cocoa butter and kernel oil. The plants used in black soap are dried in the sun and roasted in clay ovens to produce ash. The ash is added o water and filtered to produce African black soap. The roasting process produces a deep, dark brown color with black specs throughout, hence the name African black soap. African black soap is rich in naturally occurring vitamins E and A and antioxidants.

Shampoo

African black soap can be applied to the hair as a gentle cleanser; it contains no sodium lauryl sulfate, a lathering agent that strips the hair of its natural oils.

Skin Cleanser

African black soap contains antibacterial properties that aid in the prevention of acne and blemishes. Black soap penetrates the skin to pull embedded impurities out of the skin. African black soap does not remove existing acne, but it does help to prevent excessive oil production and hinders bacterial growth from developing on the skin.

Prevent Signs of Aging

African black soap is rich in antioxidants and polyphenols, which are beneficial for suppressing free radicals, which cause premature aging.

Make-up Remover

African black soap is rich in oils and butters, which makes it an effective makeup remover.

Body Soap

African black soap contains vitamins A and E and iron to cleanse the skin, making it supple and smooth.

Sensitive Skin

African black soap can be used for sensitive skin; it contains vitamin E, which heals and protects the skin. Before applying black soap on your face, you should do a patch test on the inside of your elbow to ensure you are not allergic to the ingredients contained in the soap.

Dandruff

African black soap can be used to treat and prevent dandruff; the anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties contained in African black soap are beneficial for prohibiting bacterial growth on the scalp and relieving minor scalp irritation. If you are experiencing excessive dandruff or itching of the scalp, please contact a trichologist, a professional skilled in treating scalp disorders.

Liquid Cleanser

African black soap can be converted into a liquid form when it is added to water for several hours. Add small pieces of the African black soap to a disposable container; cover them with water and leave them overnight. You can use the liquid form as you would the solid form.

References

Article reviewed by GlennK Last updated on: Jun 14, 2011

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