If you have ever used authentic artisanal natural African black soap, you may have noticed that it becomes softer once it comes in contact with water and it does not produce as much foam as the commercial soaps you find on the market. This is not a sign of poor quality, but rather a result of the different ingredients and processes used to make the soap.
In this article, we will explain why authentic artisanal natural African black soap is less foamy than commercial soaps, and why this is actually beneficial for your skin.
What is Authentic Artisanal Natural African Black Soap?
Authentic artisanal natural African black soap is a traditional skin care product that originated in West Africa, especially in countries like Ghana, Nigeria, and Benin. It is made from locally harvested ingredients like plant cocoa pod ash, oils, and shea butter. The plant materials (husks, shells, or barks of plantains, coconut, cocoa pods, and shea trees) are burned until they form a dark ash and then the ash is combined with the oils and shea butter to form the soap. This process does not involve sodium hydroxide, which is a strong alkali used to make commercial soaps.
What is Sodium Hydroxide and How Does It Affect the Foaminess of Soap?
Sodium hydroxide, also known as lye or caustic soda, is a chemical compound that is used to make soap by reacting with fats or oils. Sodium hydroxide increases the pH of the soap, making it more alkaline and foamier. Nonetheless, sodium hydroxide can be harsh and drying on the skin, especially for sensitive skin types. Sodium hydroxide may strip the natural oils from the skin, leaving it dry and irritated. It is important to apply body cream or lotion such as shea butter, cocoa butter, shea oil or coconut oil to moisturize your skin.
Why is Authentic Artisanal Natural African Black Soap Less Foamy and Gentler on the Skin?
Authentic artisanal natural African black soap has a lower pH and is more acidic, making it less foamy but gentler and moisturizing on the skin. It also has natural antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that can benefit the skin. It helps treat various skin conditions, such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and fungal infections. It can also help to exfoliate the dead skin cells, unclog the pores, and brighten the complexion. For individuals with sensitive skin, regularly using plant-based body creams may optimize irritation resistance and overall comfort.
What You Need to Know:
Commercial soaps are foamy but harsh on the skin, as they contain sodium hydroxide, a strong alkali that makes soap more alkaline.
Authentic artisanal natural African black soap is less foamy but gentle on the skin, as it contains plant cocoa pod ash, oils, and shea butter, which make soap more acidic.
Authentic artisanal natural African black soap also has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that can improve the skin’s health and appearance.
For those seeking natural solutions, handcrafted African black soap stands out. Its unique blend of plant-based ingredients cleanses deeply and nourishes gently, revealing your skin's natural beauty.
