What Is Aleppo Soap: Benefits, History and Uses For Hair & Body

 

What Are The Benefits Of Aleppo Soap?

Aleppo soap is loved for its naturally nourishing qualities and is among the best bar soaps for sensitive skin. Authentically made in Aleppo, Syria, it dates back to the 8th century AD.

The soap traditionally comes in hard blocks made from olive oil and lye, but the ingredient that sets it apart is bay laurel oil. Laurel berry oils, known for their moisturising properties and skin benefits, play a significant role in the soap's overall effectiveness, contributing to its suitability for various skin types and antimicrobial properties.

Apart from being one of the most all-natural products available in the world today, Aleppo soap is versatile and can be used on the face, body, hair, and for shaving—yes, even you ladies.

 

What Is Aleppo Soap?

Aleppo soap (or Savon d'Alep, if you're French) is, of course, soap: the stuff you wash with. Real Aleppo soap is made from only olive oil, laurel oil, and lye. It's a hard soap made from olive oil and lye, like Castile soap from Spain.

But Aleppo soap benefits from being made with an extra-special ingredient that takes it to another level: oil of bay laurel. This precious oil, derived from laurel trees (like bay leaves), acts as a gentle cleanser and is well-tolerated by even the most sensitive skin.

Laurel Oil Soap Ingredients:

This soap has few ingredients, but it is made from all-natural Olive oil, laurel berry oil, sodium hydroxide, and water.

Liquid Aleppo soap is also available and is known for its versatility. It is suitable for various applications, including shampooing and scalp care.

 

 

Aleppo Soap History: Where Does It Come From?

So, what are the origins of Aleppo Soap? To answer this question, we'd like to take you back in time; go on, indulge us. 

As its name suggests, this unique soap originates from the ancient city of Aleppo, the main city in Syria's Levant region. Historically, Aleppo was a central trade hub, thanks to its location at one end of the famous Silk Road.

Aleppo is said to be among the earliest soap producers. Myths abound that Queen Cleopatra of Egypt was an Aleppo soap fan before the first century AD. It is believed that the Crusaders first introduced soaps to Europe in the 11th Century AD.

Queen Zenobia of Syria was also a raving fan, probably leaving untold pictures of this natural soap on a Facebook page. 

Whatever the truth, we know that Aleppo soap has been around for centuries and is still loved today for its remarkable benefits.

 

 

How Is Aleppo Soap Made?

Turning oils into soap is a manufacturing process that requires expert craftsmanship—a quality that Aleppo's legendary soap-makers possess in abundance. 

These veritable wizards boil olive oil, lye, and water in a large vat for three days, creating a thick soap-like substance known as the saponification process. They then add oil of bay laurel – the key to Aleppo soap's powers.

The soap-making magicians then pour the mixture from the vat onto a vast sheet of wax paper to cool and harden. At this stage, it's a vibrant emerald-green colour. 

After some time, the wizards hand-cut the soap into individual blocks using a special rake. The Grand High Wizard's name is stamped onto the cubes, so you know who to worship when you bathe. True story.

 

How Long Does Aleppo Soap Last?

These artisans then stack the soap cubes to allow maximum air exposure and leave them to age for seven months. 

During this drying process, which is critical to the soaps' quality, the cubes' outsides turn golden brown, while the insides stay deep green. If you've ever sliced your Aleppo soap in two, you'll know how gorgeous that colour combo looks!

As you can see, the soap-making process can take a long time. When finished, these soaps are very dense and extremely long-lasting, offering great value for money.

These soaps can be kept for years, too; they often look better as they age and turn a richer colour. They will dry out slightly over time, but they remain perfect to use, and their skincare properties won't diminish.

 

 

What Are The Aleppo Soap Benefits For The Skin? What Is It Good For?

Natural beauty fans have been saluting the quality of Aleppo Soap for years. "Soap is just soap!" I hear you cry. But we say, "Non: Aleppo soap is in a class of its own."

Traditional Aleppo soap contains no unnatural gunk, chemicals or animal fats. It typically has a 2-20% laurel oil content and a rich, earthy fragrance that makes it a pleasure to use.

This fabulous laurel soap is also biodegradable and therefore on point with its eco values *pushes up glasses*.

 

Can I Use Aleppo Soap For My Hair?

Aleppo soap is the original 'all-in-one' product and is perfect for all skin types, including skin prone to dermatitis and other itchy, inflammatory conditions. You can use it to wash the face, body, and hair and lather well to create a natural shaving cream. Aleppo soap is also a natural substitute for shaving foam, highlighting its gentle properties that prevent skin irritation and provide a smooth shaving experience.

Aleppo soap is so gentle it can even be used on a baby's skin, making it a family-friendly choice.
Here are just some of the many skincare benefits of Aleppo soap:

• Cleanses and purifies without stripping the skin's natural essential oils.
• The olive oil hydrates, moisturises and nourishes dry, flaky skin.
• Oil of bay laurel can help manage skin problems like eczema, dermatitis and acne.
• The properties of olive oil and bay laurel oil help calm redness, irritation and inflammation.
• It has Antiseptic, Antibacterial and antifungal properties
• Dermatologists often recommend that this soap is suitable for the most sensitive or baby skin

 

 

TL;DR: Traditional Aleppo soap is natural, gentle, moisturising and the Best Bar for sensitive skin!

FUN FACT:

 

Authenticity and Quality: How To Spot The Best Aleppo Soap

When it comes to choosing the best Aleppo soap, authenticity and quality are crucial. Here are some tips to help you spot the real deal:

 

Look for the ingredients

A genuine Aleppo soap should only contain olive oil, laurel berry oil, and lye. Be wary of soaps that contain additional ingredients, such as preservatives or fragrances. The simplicity of these natural components is what makes traditional Aleppo soap so special.

 

Check the percentage

pay attention to the percentage of laurel berry oil, ranging from 5% to 40%. A higher percentage of laurel berry oil generally means a more moisturising and nourishing soap. If you have sensitive skin, choose a soap with a lower percentage of laurel berry oil, around 12%. For those with dry or very dry skin, a soap with a higher rate, up to 40%, may be more beneficial.

 

Check the colour

A high-quality Aleppo soap should have a brownish colour on the outside and a greenish colour on the inside. The darker the colour, the more laurel oil it contains. This unique colour combination is a hallmark of real Aleppo soap.

 

Check the texture

A real Aleppo soap should have a smooth, creamy texture. Avoid soaps that are too hard or too soft. The perfect balance in texture ensures that the soap is gentle yet effective.

 

Check the smell

Aleppo soap has a distinct, earthy smell. If the soap smells too perfumy or artificial, it may not be genuine. The natural fragrance of laurel berry oil is unmistakable and a sign of authenticity.

 

Check the price

Be wary of very cheap Aleppo soap. High-quality Aleppo soap can be expensive due to the high cost of laurel oil. Remember, you get what you pay for, and investing in genuine Aleppo soap is worth it for its numerous benefits.

 

Check the certification

Lastly, ensure you purchase from a reputable manufacturer. Look for clear labelling that indicates the ingredients and their percentages. This transparency is a good sign of a trustworthy product.

 

By following these tips, you can ensure that you are purchasing a high-quality, genuine Aleppo soap that will provide all the benefits this natural soap has to offer.

 

 

Safety And Precautions

While Aleppo soap is generally safe for most skin types, it's always wise to take a few precautions to ensure a positive experience:

If you have sensitive skin, start with a small patch test. Apply a small amount of the soap to a discreet area of your skin and wait 24 hours to see if any adverse reactions occur. This simple step can help you avoid potential irritation.

Avoid using Aleppo soap on broken or irritated skin, as it may exacerbate the condition. If you have any open wounds or severe skin issues, consult a healthcare professional before using the soap.

Be cautious when trying Aleppo soap for the first time for those prone to allergies. The natural ingredients, while beneficial, can still cause reactions in some individuals. If you experience any irritation, redness, or itching, discontinue use immediately and seek medical advice.

Keep Aleppo soap out of reach of children and pets. While it's a natural product, it can still pose a choking hazard if ingested.

By following these precautions, you can safely enjoy the many benefits of Aleppo soap without any unwanted side effects.

 

Additional Considerations: Aleppo Soap And Lifestyle

Aleppo soap is not just a soap; it’s a way of life. Here are some additional considerations to keep in mind:

• Sustainability: Aleppo soap is a natural, biodegradable product that is gentle on the environment. Choose a soap that is sustainably sourced and packaged. This not only benefits your skin but also helps protect our planet.

• Cruelty-free: Aleppo soap is a cruelty-free product that is not tested on animals. Look for certifications such as “Cruelty-Free” or “Vegan” to ensure that the soap meets your values. Supporting cruelty-free products is a step towards a more ethical lifestyle.

• Health benefits: Aleppo soap has numerous health benefits, including its ability to soothe skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Consider using Aleppo soap as part of your skincare routine to take advantage of its natural healing properties.

• Hair care: Aleppo soap is also great for hair care. Use it as a shampoo or conditioner to nourish and moisturize your hair. Its natural ingredients make it a gentle yet effective option for maintaining healthy hair.

• Shaving: Aleppo soap can be used as a shaving foam, making it a great alternative to traditional shaving creams. Its gentle properties prevent skin irritation and provide a smooth shaving experience.

• Household cleaning: Aleppo soap can also be used for household cleaning, making it a versatile and multi-purpose product. From washing dishes to cleaning surfaces, this natural soap can do it all.

By considering these additional factors, you can fully embrace the Aleppo soap lifestyle and enjoy its many benefits in various aspects of your daily routine.

Conclusion

Aleppo soap is a timeless, natural soap, cherished for centuries for its remarkable benefits. Its unique blend of olive oil and laurel berry oil offers a range of advantages, from moisturising and nourishing the skin to providing gentle cleansing for sensitive skin types.

Choosing the right Aleppo soap and adhering to safety precautions can enhance your skincare routine, making it a versatile addition to your daily regimen. Aleppo soap is an excellent choice whether you're seeking a gentle cleanser for sensitive skin, a moisturising solution for dry skin, or a natural shampoo.

Embrace Aleppo soap's tradition and natural goodness, and experience its benefits for yourself. Your skin will thank you!

 

Et Vous?

We're presuming since you're here, and you're human that you use soap, non? Have you ever tried Aleppo soap? Do you have any thoughts on these unique, natural blocks? We'd love to hear what you think in the comments below! It makes us feel kinda wanted :)

 

Fancy giving these wonderful Aleppo Soaps a try?