10 Best African Black Soaps 2025 in the United States

The SheaMoisture Bar Soap African Black Soap with Shea Butter is designed to cleanse, moisturize, and soothe troubled skin, particularly dry and sensitive types. Its key ingredients include palm and plantain peel ash, and a blend of oils traditionally used in Africa, which helps balance oily skin.

This soap is ideal for adults with specific skin concerns like dryness and sensitivity, offering a gentle cleansing experience without harsh chemicals. It boasts a sustainable and cruelty-free production process, free from parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, and sulfates, making it a conscientious choice for those mindful of ethical products. The scent of shea butter adds a pleasant, mild fragrance.

However, users seeking a more robust scent or those with extremely oily skin might find it less effective. At 8 oz, the bar is fairly substantial, and its dimensions (2.5 x 1 x 4 inches) make it easy to handle. Given its benefits and features, this soap suits individuals looking for natural, soothing skincare solutions, particularly for dry and sensitive skin.

SheaMoisture African Black Soap Body Wash is designed specifically for melanin-rich skin, making it a good option for individuals with darker skin tones looking for a cleansing and moisturizing body wash. One of its main strengths is the combination of ingredients, including African Black Soap, oats, aloe, and Vitamin E, which work together to soothe and clarify dry, troubled skin. The body wash promises 24-hour visible moisture, which can be beneficial for those dealing with dry skin issues.

Additionally, its formulation is free from harmful chemicals like sulfates, parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, and petrolatum, making it a safer choice for your skin. The inclusion of fair trade shea butter and 92% naturally derived ingredients is a plus for those who prefer more natural skincare products. Users can expect their skin to feel calm, smooth, and visibly moisturized after use, contributing to healthy, glowing skin.

On the downside, the product is fragranced, which might not be suitable for those with sensitive skin or those who prefer unscented products. Also, while it is recommended to use this body wash in combination with other products from SheaMoisture's African Black Soap Collection for best results, this could be seen as a drawback for those looking for a one-step solution. This product seems well-suited for adults with dry, troubled skin looking for a natural, soothing, and moisturizing body wash.

The Alaffia Authentic African Black Soap is a versatile liquid soap that offers multiple uses such as acne face wash, moisturizing body wash, shampoo, and shaving soap. It contains natural ingredients like real African Black Soap and shea butter, which are known for their detoxifying, clarifying, and moisturizing properties. This soap is beneficial for various skin types, including sensitive, dry, normal, and acne-prone skin, making it a suitable option for a wide range of users.

The inclusion of shea butter helps to keep skin and hair soft and nourished, which is a significant plus for those seeking extra hydration and smoothness. Additionally, it is an unscented product, catering to those who prefer or need fragrance-free skincare products due to sensitivities or personal preference. The creamy lather it produces is particularly helpful for shaving, providing a smooth glide for razors and reducing the risk of irritation.

However, despite its many benefits, some users might find the lack of scent less appealing if they prefer a fragranced product. Also, while it is marketed as suitable for all skin types, individual reactions can vary, and it may not work equally well for everyone. For those looking for a multi-functional, natural, and unscented skincare product, the Alaffia Authentic African Black Soap is an excellent choice.