African Black Soap is also known as Anago Soap, Alata Simena,or Ose Dudu. It's traditionally been used to cleanse and treat all manner of skin problems. However, its effectiveness can vary depending on the type of soap and its place of origin. Black soap is made with different, often secret ingredients and processes in different areas. Some black soap is produced in America and Europe, where it often contains artificial ingredients. "Raw" black soap is all natural, with no artificial compounds.
Strengthens Skin and Hair
Raw black soap is generally made with plantain skins, a good source of Vitamins A and E as well as iron. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps your skin retain its health and moisture. Vitamin A keeps your skin young and fights wrinkles and spots. Iron may also strengthen your skin and hair.
Provides UV Protection
Many types of black soap are made with large amounts of shea butter. A study published in the "Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology" found that the caffeic acid in shea butter fights UV radiation. Using raw black soap may help protect your skin from sun damage. However, be sure to use other forms of protection as well.
Alleviates Acne
Black soap has traditionally been used in Ghana and Nigeria to treat acne, oily skin and blemishes. This may be a result of the potash that gives the soap its black color. However, because potash can be made from a variety of trees, you may need to try various black soaps to find the one with the greatest acne fighting effect.
Reduces Skin Irritation
Raw black soap is often used in shaving, to help fight eczema and psoriasis. As with acne, different varieties of black soap may have varying effects on skin impurities. However, the shea butter in the soap helps to moisturize and smooth skin, alleviating itching and other irritations.
References
- Treehugger: What is Black Soap?
- Africa Imports: There's Nothing Basic About Africa's Black Soap
- Agbanga Karite: African Black Soap Revealed
- MSNBC: The ABCs of Vitamins For More Beautiful Skin
- PubMed: Caffeic acid modulates ultraviolet radiation-B induced oxidative damage in human blood lymphocytes.
- PubMed: Anti-inflammatory and chemopreventive effects of triterpene cinnamates and acetates from shea fat.
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