Aleppo Soaps

What is Aleppo Soap?

Aleppo is a traditional soap made from olive oil and bay laurel oil. It has been made in Aleppo, Syria, for centuries. This hard soap is moisturising for dry skin and various skin problems.

Its gentle formula is perfect for sensitive skin and natural for those with allergies or irritations. The blend of olive oil and bay laurel oil nourishes the skin while cleansing.

Bay laurel oil is one of the ingredients alongside olive oil. It is known for its moisturising and antimicrobial properties, making it practical for all skin types.

History and Culture

Traditional Aleppo soap, also known as Ghar soap, has a long history and culture lasting over 4000 years. Made in Aleppo, Syria, in ancient times, the soap-making method has not changed for centuries.

Highly prized for its unique formula, especially the combination of laurel and olive oil, Aleppo soap was a luxury item used by royalty and nobility in the Middle East.

Today, it is still made using traditional methods. It is loved for its natural ingredients and gentle cleansing properties, making it a classic in natural skincare.

Ingredients and Composition

Aleppo soap is made from olive oil and bay laurel oil saponified to make a hard natural soap. Unlike Marseille soap, which is primarily olive oil, Aleppo soap has laurel oil, giving it unique properties.

Typically, 5% to 70% of soap contains laurel oil, which gives the soap its fragrance and moisturising properties. Along with olive and bay laurel oil, the soap contains soda and water, which is part of the saponification process.

No animal fats and no chemical additives. Aleppo soap is a natural soap for all skin types.

Benefits and Uses

Aleppo soap is a natural product with many benefits and uses. Its olive and laurel oil combination makes it perfect for moisturising and nourishing sensitive skin. Here are some of the benefits and uses of Aleppo soap:

• Gentle Cleansing: Aleppo soap is a mild and gentle cleanser that removes dirt and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. It is perfect for daily use, especially for sensitive skin.

• Moisturising Properties: Aleppo soap's olive and laurel oils lock in moisture and make the skin feel soft and supple. This soap is perfect for dry skin, as it keeps the skin hydrated throughout the day.

• Soothes Skin Problems: Known for its soothing properties, Aleppo soap can help with eczema, acne and psoriasis. The natural ingredients work together to calm the skin and reduce inflammation.

• Natural and Chemical Free: Aleppo soap is a natural and chemical-free product. It contains no animal or unnecessary additives, making it perfect for avoiding synthetic ingredients.

• All Skin Types: Aleppo soap is for oily, dry, or sensitive skin. Its gentle formulation cleanses without irritating the skin, making it perfect for those with allergies or sensitivities.

How is Aleppo Soap Made?

Making Aleppo soap involves a traditional process that starts with cooking olive oil and laurel oil with soda derived from sea salt in big cauldrons. The paste is then poured onto the floor to cool and harden.

Once hardened, the soap is hand-cut into blocks and stamped with the producer's mark. The blocks are then stacked in towers to aerate and dry for nine months in ancient cool and breezy cellars. As the soap ages, it hardens, and its colour changes from olive green to gold or brown, and that's when it's ready to use.

Authenticity and Quality

To check for the authenticity and quality of Aleppo soap, look for a deep fragrance, a golden brown exterior, and an emerald green centre. Due to its high quality and purity, Genuine Aleppo soap will float on water.

Beware of cheaper soaps made in Turkey or with minimal laurel oil. Authentic Aleppo soap is made in Syria using traditional methods. It has a high percentage of laurel oil, which is why it's more effective.

Safety and Precautions

Aleppo soap is generally safe to use, but here are some precautions to take:

• Patch Test: Before using Aleppo soap on your face or body, do a patch test to check for sensitivity or allergic reaction. Apply a small amount to a discreet area and wait 24 hours to see if there's any adverse effect.

• Do not use on broken skin: Do not use Aleppo soap on broken or irritated skin; it may irritate more. If you have cuts or abrasions, wait until they heal before using the soap.

• Keep out of Reach of Children and Pets: To avoid accidental ingestion or skin irritation, keep Aleppo soap out of reach of children and pets and store it in a safe place.

• Use with Caution on Sensitive Skin: Aleppo soap is suitable for sensitive skin, but use with caution. Start with a small amount to test your skin. If you feel any discomfort, stop using it and consult a dermatologist.

Shelf Life and Storage

Aleppo soap has a long shelf life due to its natural ingredients and saponification process. Here are some tips to store and maintain the quality of your Aleppo soap:

• Store in a Cool Dry Place: Store your Aleppo soap in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. This will preserve the quality and extend the shelf life.

• Keep it away from Water: To prevent your Aleppo soap from getting soggy or mouldy, keep it away from water. Use a soap dish with drainage to let excess water escape.

• Maximum Air Exposure: Give your Aleppo soap maximum air exposure to dry and harden, extending its shelf life. Store it in a well-ventilated area to keep it dry between uses.

By following these tips, you can enjoy the benefits of Aleppo soap and its longevity and effectiveness.

Lifestyle and Aleppo Soap

Aleppo soap is more than just a soap; it's a lifestyle. It has been part of daily routines, natural, gentle, and effective cleansing for centuries. Using Aleppo soap can improve your skin, hair, and overall well-being.

Use Aleppo soap to simplify your skincare routine. Its moisturising properties make it suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin. It's a face wash, body wash, shampoo, and shaving cream all in one, so it's a great addition to any lifestyle.

For those who care about sustainability, Aleppo soap is a great choice. Made from natural ingredients like olive and laurel oil, it's biodegradable and eco-friendly. The soap-making process doesn't use animal fats and unnecessary chemicals, so it's cruelty-free and eco-conscious.

How to Use

To get the most out of your Aleppo soap, here are some tips:

• Use warm water to create a rich lather which will clean and nourish your skin.

• Massage the soap onto your skin in a circular motion to stimulate blood flow and remove impurities.

• Rinse with warm water to remove all soap residue.

• For dry skin, use gentle massaging motion to lock in moisture.

• Use gentle cleansing motions for skin problems like acne or eczema, and avoid scrubbing or rubbing the affected area.

• Use the soap as a shampoo and massage it into your scalp to stimulate hair growth and reduce dandruff.

Conclusion

Aleppo soap is a classic natural soap that has been loved for centuries for its many benefits. The combination of olive and laurel oil gives it many advantages, from moisturising and nourishing the skin to gentle cleansing for sensitive skin types.

By using Aleppo soap and following these tips, you can experience the benefits of this natural soap for yourself. Aleppo soap is the best choice whether you're looking for a simple skincare routine, a sustainable and eco-friendly option, or a gentle and effective soap for sensitive skin.