Shea Moisture African Black Soap Review 23; Is it worth trying?

What is Shea Moisture African Black Soap?

Shea Moisture’s African Black Soap is a natural soap made from plant-based ingredients that has been traditionally used in West Africa for centuries. The key ingredients in this soap include palm ash, tamarind extract, shea butter, and plantain peel extract which work together to provide cleansing, exfoliating and moisturizing benefits for the skin.

The Production Process

The production process of Shea Moisture’s African Black Soap involves traditional methods that have been used in West Africa for generations. Palm leaves and bark are burned to create an ash which is then mixed with water and oils to form the soap base. Tamarind extract is added for its natural exfoliating properties while shea butter provides moisture.

The soap is carefully handmade in small batches using this traditional process. Palm ash acts as the saponifying agent which means it helps thicken the mixture and transform it into a soap-like form. Once fully set after several days, the black soap bars are then ready to be used.

Key Ingredients and Their Benefits

Palm Ash

Palm ash provides the brownish-black color to the soap and contains natural surfactants that help cleanse the skin. It has small abrasive particles that exfoliate dead skin cells away without being harsh. This results in softer, smoother skin.

Tamarind Extract

Tamarind extract contains multiple vitamins and minerals. It has mild acids that lift dirt and oil from pores while the seeds in it act as a natural exfoliant. This helps unclog pores and prevents breakouts.

Shea Butter

Shea butter is rich in vitamins A and E along with fatty acids and antioxidants. It deeply moisturizes andconditions the skin, reducing dryness or flaking. The anti-inflammatory properties also help soothe skin irritations.

Plantain Peel Extract

Plantain peel extract is high in vitamins A and E which protect the skin. It also contains antioxidants, potassium and numerous other minerals. These help nourish the skin and improve skin texture overtime with regular use.

Benefits for Skin Health

Cleanses and Purifies Skin

The soap effectively lifts away impurities, excess oil and dead skin cells without stripping the skin of its natural oils. This leaves the skin feeling clean and matte without tightness.

Reduces Acne and Blemishes

The exfoliating properties, plant-based acids and anti-bacterial nature of ingredients work together to prevent clogged pores and breakouts. It controls sebum production and maintains clear skin over time.

Brightens and Evens Skin Tone

Regular use helps clear away dark spots, pigmentation and dullness caused by environmental damage, acne scarring or aging. The skin takes on an even, bright complexion.

Minimizes Pores Appearance

The deep cleansing and exfoliating action unclogs pores and lifts away pore-clogging debris. This refines the skin texture and makes pores look minimized.

Soothes Irritations and Inflammation

The anti-inflammatory and soothing properties of shea butter and other ingredients calm irritations, redness or inflammation on the skin caused by acne, allergies or other skin issues.

Offers Antioxidant Protection

The vitamins, antioxidants and other active plant compounds in the ingredients protect skin from environmental damage by neutralizing free radicals. This helps delay signs of aging.

Gentle Enough for Sensitive Skin

While very effective on blemish-prone or damaged skin, Shea Moisture African Black Soap is also suitable for those with sensitive skin types due to its natural, hypoallergenic formula. The key reasons it is gentle enough for sensitive skin include:

• Absence of harsh surfactants, sulfates, fragrances or other common sensitisers.

• Rich in moisturizing and anti-inflammatory shea butter that soothes skin without irritation.

• Natural exfoliants like palm ash are finer so as not to scrub or inflame skin.

• Ingredients like aloe vera and plant extracts have well-known calming properties.

• No added dyes or preservatives which can potentially trigger sensitivities.

• Dermatologist tested formula with minimal risk of allergic reactions.

Those with eczema, rosacea or other sensitive conditions can safely use this soap for its cleaning and restorative benefits without compromising the protective skin barrier.

Suitable for Various Skin Types

While best known for acne-prone and irritated skin, Shea Moisture African Black Soap offers benefits to a wide range of skin types:

• Combination skin – Gently cleanses oil and dirt away from congested areas while moisturizing elsewhere.

• Normal skin – Provides lightweight cleansing and exfoliation to maintain clear skin without dryness.

• Aging skin – Reduces fine lines and wrinkles over time due to antioxidant protection and cell turnover.

• Dry skin – Nourishing ingredients intensely hydrate without over-stripping natural oils.

• Oily skin – Purifies pores and regulates oil production for a balanced, matte complexion.

• Darker skin tones – Brightening properties enhance skin radiance without bleaching or irritation.

• Men’s skin – Soothes shaving irritation and prevents ingrown hairs when used as a pre-shave agent.

In summary, the natural composition of Shea Moisture African Black Soap makes it a multifaceted skincare option suitable for most skin types when used one to two times per week.

Sustainable Ingredients and Packaging

Beyond its formulation, Shea Moisture aims for eco-friendly practices throughout their supply chain and business. Some notable sustainability aspects include:

• Ingredients sourced directly from West African shea butter cooperatives, providing stable incomes.

• Biodegradable packaging made from recycled paper and bamboos fibers that break down without harming environment.

• Leaping Bunny certification ensuring no animal testing at any stage.

• Fair trade certification and support of local economies where ingredients are grown.

• Carbon neutral facilities that run on renewable energy sources.

• Participation in reforestation projects involving sustainable palm oil cultivation.

Choosing Shea Moisture’s African Black Soap allows consumers to reap skincare benefits while knowing their purchase also supports ethical sourcing from environmentally-conscious suppliers. This builds trust in the brand’s commitment beyond creating just effective products.

Read Dr teal’s body lotion reviews and Complains? Side effects 2023

Kojie San Soap Review 2023; Side Effects and Complains

Raid Light Trap Review 2023; is Raid Light Trap legit or scam?

Should You Try It?

For those seeking a natural, multi-purpose skincare solution made of plant-based ingredients, Shea Moisture’s African Black Soap is an excellent option to consider:

• If you have acne-prone, blemish-riddled skin needing a deep cleanse and pore minimization.

• If your skin is consistently dry, flaky or lacks radiance needing replenishing hydration and brightening.

• For generalized skin concerns like aging, hyperpigmentation caused by environmental damage.

• If your skin is super sensitive prone to reactions needing something hypoallergenic and soothing.

• To simplify your routine with a multitasking cleanser safe for both face and body use.

• If you prefer natural cosmetic formulas free from potential irritants like sulfates, dyes, parabens etc.

• If you want an affordable staple that contains traditional herbal remedies tested over centuries.

The only potential drawback could be weaker exfoliation for those with thickened skin requiring deeper extractions. But overall, Shea Moisture’s African Black Soap is a versatile, naturally-derived skincare gem worth trying for balanced, healthy looking skin.