Jenna Scott

Everything you need to know before using African Black Soap!

1) Let’s start off…what is African Black Soap and where does it come from?

We all want the flawless, glowing skin that African Black Soap can provide. African Black Soap originated from West Africa and is made from harvesting local fruits and plants such as plantains, cocoa pods, palm tree leaves and shea tree bark.
The ingredients are collected, sun-dried and then roasted for many hours. Plant fats such as coconut oil and shea butter are added for moisture and then stirred on heat for at least 24 hours until it solidifies, and is then left to sit and ‘cure’ (Nelson, 2020).

2) So what makes it so special?

African Black soap has taken the beauty world by storm due to its many skincare benefits.

  • It is used as a remedy for acne-prone skin, reducing hyper-pigmentation, preventing razor bumps and for soothing the discomforts of eczema and other skin irritations (Cherney, 2018).
  • It is incredibly hydrating, so is a great natural moisturiser for the skin. It gently cleanses and exfoliates, banishing dirt and dead skin cells.
  • It is known to be more effective at killing bacteria on the skin than many medicated soaps (Agbo, B.E 2012).
  • Its anti-aging properties can reduce fine lines and wrinkles, promoting elasticity (Ikpoh, 2012).
  • It lasts longer than a regular bar of soap if used correctly (see point 5).

In one recent study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 91% of black soap users said they were very or somewhat satisfied and found the soap helpful for their skin conditions. No wonder this centuries-old beauty secret has turned into a treasured favourite.

3) How do I spot authentic Black Soap?

Due to African Black Soap reaching “holy grail” status, there are an increasing number of knock-off products that include additives that raw, all-natural black soap do not have. Make sure you purchase the real deal. Check out our blog on How to spot Authentic Black Soap to find out how.

4) Is African Black Soap suitable for my skin?


African Black Soap is considered suitable for oily, dry, normal and in some cases sensitive skin.

Like all products, soap can react differently to each individual. Upon first use, skin may feel dry and tight. It is believed this is caused by the soap drawing out excess oils and impurities. Ph levels of the skin will eventually balance out after a few days. If you have sensitive and dry skin, start out by using it only once every day or two.

Kokoa’s Black Soap includes shea butter which is fab for moisturising dry skin. Check it out to meet all of your skincare needs. It is super efficient at deep pore cleansing due to its natural exfoliating qualities.

Sounds like it ticks all of the boxes then. If used correctly, African Black Soap may be your new number one skincare product. With new ingredients, you should always do a patch test.

5) How do I use this wonder bar?


Be gentle with your delicate skin. The soap can contain ash granules and the debris that may not dissolve quickly, so avoid rubbing it directly onto your face and body.

  • Break off a small piece of the soap, we’re talking marble-sized amount (a little goes a long way).
  • Rinse your face
  • Rub the small piece of soap in your hands with water to create a creamy lather
  • Apply in gentle circular motions to cleanse your skin
  • Rinse well and pat skin dry

Watch Kokoa’s video on how to use African Black Soap here.

6) How do I store my beloved soap?

You need to store your African Black Soap correctly to get the longest life out of it! Black soap can easily absorb water, so don’t let it sit in a puddle after use.

  • Give the soap a home where the water can easily drain.
  • The soap can easily develop a thin white-coloured film when exposed to the air. Do not fear, this does not mould, so step away from the bin!
  • It may be easy to break a few pieces off and keep in the box it came in to make it easier for day-to-day use. Store the rest away in a cool dry place.

Try this magical soap today and let us know what you think!

REFERENCES

Comparative studies on the effect of locally made black soap and conventional medicated soaps (2012) B.E. Agbo <https://www.researchgate.net/publication/303544065_Comparative_studies_on_the_effect_of_locally_made_black_soap_and_conventional_medicated_soaps_on_isolated_human_skin_microflora>

Discovering Black Soap: A survey (2017) Ann Lin, Adam Nabatian & Caroline P. Halverstam <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5605219/>

What is African Black Soap? (2020) Jennifer Nelson <https://www.mnn.com/lifestyle/natural-beauty-fashion/stories/what-is-african-black-soap>