African Black Soap

Today we're all about African Black soap! Also commonly known as Dudu Osun. However in Ghana, African Black soap is mostly referred to as Alaffia soap. Other names for this soap are Anago, Alata Simena or Ose Dudu. This is a soap like no other. Made by womens' groups in West Africa, recipes are top secret and specific to the group making the soap. Which is why you might have some slight variation between soap made in different regions or countries. West African women have been making it for centuries and completely from scratch, so it's quite a process to make it. As mentioned, there are slight variations in the soap depending on where it's from, but ingredients willl generally include plantain ash, cocoa pod ash, cocoa bark, palm oil and coconut oil. The result is a deep cleansing soap that heals beautifully. Though some use it specifically to clear acne scars, skin breakouts and to deal with any sensitive skin issues like psoriasis or eczema, it can also just be used as part of a regular skin regimen. Black soap is a strong exfoliator so it can be drying for some people. We recommend using it every other day or twice a week, if it should feel drying on your skin. Alternate with any shea butter based soap. Alaffia soap also works well as a shampoo. Some also use it to shave. An amazing soap full of Africa's goodness, made in Africa since the dawn of time.