Moroccan black soap — known as savon beldi or savon noir — is one of the most powerful yet gentle cleansers in the world. Made from a blend of olive oil, eucalyptus, and natural plant extracts, it has been used in Moroccan hammams for centuries to deeply cleanse, soften, and renew the skin. If you've just discovered it and aren't sure how to use it, this guide walks you through everything you need to know.
What Is Moroccan Black Soap?
Despite its name, Moroccan black soap isn't actually black — it ranges in color from dark olive green to deep brown, depending on the ingredients. It has a soft, paste-like texture (not a hard bar) and a rich, earthy scent from the eucalyptus and olive oil. It's 100% natural, free from synthetic chemicals, and suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin.
What You'll Need
- Moroccan Black Soap (Savon Noir)
- A kessa exfoliating glove
- Warm water or access to a steam shower
- Argan oil (optional, for moisturizing after)
Step-by-Step: How to Use Moroccan Black Soap
Step 1: Warm Your Skin First
Start with a warm shower or bath for at least 5 minutes. The warmth is essential — it opens your pores and softens the skin, allowing the black soap to penetrate deeply and work its magic. Don't skip this step; it's what makes the difference between a good cleanse and a great one.
Step 2: Apply the Black Soap
Take a small amount of savon noir — about a teaspoon is enough for the whole body — and spread it evenly over your damp skin. A little goes a long way. Work it in with your hands in circular motions, covering your arms, legs, torso, and back. For the face, use an even smaller amount and be gentle around the eye area.
Step 3: Leave It On
This is the step most people skip — and it's the most important one. Leave the black soap on your skin for 5 to 10 minutes. During this time, the olive oil and eucalyptus are actively softening and loosening dead skin cells, detoxifying pores, and nourishing the skin. You'll feel your skin becoming noticeably softer as it sits.
Step 4: Exfoliate with the Kessa Glove
Now for the satisfying part. Using a damp kessa glove, scrub your skin in long, firm strokes from head to toe. You'll see dead skin rolling off — this is completely normal and a sign it's working. Focus on rough patches like elbows, knees, and heels. The combination of the soap and the glove delivers a level of exfoliation that no ordinary body wash can match.
Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off completely with warm water, then finish with a cool rinse to close the pores. Pat your skin dry gently — don't rub, as your skin will be freshly exfoliated and extra soft.
Step 6: Moisturize (Optional but Recommended)
After rinsing, while your skin is still slightly damp, apply a few drops of pure Moroccan argan oil and massage it in. Your freshly exfoliated skin will absorb it beautifully, leaving you with a deep, lasting glow.
How Often Should You Use Black Soap?
For full exfoliation with the kessa glove, once a week is ideal. Between sessions, you can use the black soap daily as a regular cleanser in the shower — just apply, lather, and rinse without the glove for a gentle everyday cleanse.
Can You Use Black Soap on Your Face?
Yes — but use a very small amount and skip the kessa glove on your face. Use your fingertips instead, massage gently, leave for 2–3 minutes, and rinse. It's excellent for oily and acne-prone skin thanks to its natural antibacterial properties.
Is Black Soap Good for All Skin Types?
Moroccan black soap is naturally gentle and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Because it's free from synthetic detergents and preservatives, it cleanses without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier. If you have very dry skin, follow up with argan oil every time for best results.
Ready to Try It?
Experience the centuries-old Moroccan cleansing ritual for yourself. Shop our authentic, handcrafted products:
- Pure Moroccan Black Soap (Savon Noir)
- Pure Moroccan Argan Oil — the perfect post-cleanse moisturizer
- Moroccan Lava Clay Mask — pair with black soap for a full hammam ritual