African Black Soap aka Alata Soap

Okay, I'm sure most of you have heard about black soap. I've been reading about it on different blogs and decided to do my own research. What I found was that it could be really beneficial for myhair and skin. I did say I was trying to go towardsnatural products and away from chemicals so why not give it try. I found an African grocery store that sells it. During my research this is a little of what I've learned:

Brief summary of Organic African Black Soap: This is the type of Black Soap intended for use on sensitive skin and hair. African Black Soap - Traditionally made in Ghana, West Africa (this kind is also made in Nigeria, West Africa) Totally organic, this black soap is the REAL thing! The major difference between this and the some other Black Soaps is that it does not contain fragrance, which some skin types are sensitive to. Black Soap is also known as Anago Soap or Alata Soap in Ghana, and as Ose Dudu in Nigeria. Our Black Soap is made from roasted cocoa (chocolate) pods, plantain skins ashes mixed with palm oil. Black Soap is especially recommended for the very young and the elderly, or anyone with tender skin. It leaves the skin smooth and soft. We have added the moisturizing pure African shea butter. Raw Black Soap is prized for its quality antiseptic properties and for its gentleness on the skin and hair.


If you haven't used this soap before, it's a little bit crumbly in nature and softer than most soaps. It has a delicate texture & a natural earthy smell. It is not oily or scented. Black Soap or African Black Soap also known as Anago Soap or Alata soap, originates from West Africa. It has been used for centuries in countries like Ghana and Nigeria. It's methods and secrets have been passed down from generation to generation to keep the soap close to mother nature and avoid exploitation & imitations. This African Black Soap is not the mass produced African Black Soap in boxes all over the market.

(original state)

I cut off a piece of the soap and formed it into a ball. When its dry it's crumbly but once you add a little water its easy to shape. I took this picture to get a contrast shot of the black soap compared to a regular bar of Dove soap.

Okay now after using it I found that my skin is softer, especially on my face. I'm very sensitive and break out easily. It's sooooo gentle and leaves your skin squeaky clean...I mean no residue left behind. No it doesn't have a lovely fragrance but it does have a clean natural smell. You can put on the "smell goods" afterwards.

I also washed my hair with it and my hair feels pretty good but it does anyway after a wash. No complaints. Here are some pics of my hair after washing it with the black soap. I think I will see more results once I start using it on a regular basis. The purpose was to try a natural product...I did and I like.