Moroccan black soap is a soft, dark paste made from olives and olive oil. It's the first step of a traditional hammam visit, and you can do the same routine at home. Here is how it's done, in the order it's done.
What Moroccan black soap actually is
The word beldi means traditional or local, which is why you'll see it called beldi soap or savon noir as well. Real Moroccan black soap is a paste rather than a hard bar. It works by softening the top layer of dead skin so it can be rubbed away afterwards. That's why it is never used on its own without a scrub.
What you need
- Moroccan black soap
- A kessa glove (a rough textured exfoliating mitt)
- Warm water, ideally a steamy shower or bath
- A moisturiser or oil for afterwards, such as organic argan oil
How to use it, step by step
- Steam first. Spend 5 to 10 minutes in a hot shower or bath. Warm, damp skin is softer and the soap spreads more easily.
- Apply a thin, even layer. Smooth about a tablespoon over damp skin, working from your shoulders down. Keep it away from your eyes.
- Leave it on for 3 to 5 minutes. This is the part that loosens the dead skin. Don't skip it.
- Rinse, then scrub. Rinse with warm water, dampen your kessa glove, and rub in firm, even strokes. You will see fine grey rolls of dead skin come away.
- Rinse again and pat dry. Follow straight away with an oil or moisturiser while your skin is still slightly damp.
How often should you use it?
Start with once a week and see how your skin feels. Moroccan black soap is a strong cleanser, so more is not better. If your skin feels tight or looks red, leave a longer gap between uses.
Common questions
Can I use Moroccan black soap on my face?
It is traditionally a body soap. If you want to try it on your face, patch test on a small area first, keep it well away from your eyes, and rinse thoroughly. For daily face washing, a gentler bar such as our Nila soap bar is a better fit.
Do I really need a kessa glove?
The soap loosens the skin, but the glove is what removes it. You can use a soft washcloth, but the result is much milder.
Why does mine look different from other black soaps?
Recipes vary. Some are darker, some are more golden, and some are scented or blended with other ingredients. Ours are handmade in small batches, so texture and shade can vary slightly between tubs.
Is it safe for sensitive skin?
Sensitive skin can react to any exfoliating routine. Patch test first, start with one short session, and stop if you get irritation. If a reaction persists, speak to a pharmacist or doctor.
Choose your Moroccan black soap
- Lavender beldi black soap: calming, made with organic lavender
- Aker Fassi black soap: blended with poppy petals and pomegranate rind from Fez
- Nila black soap: blended with blue Nila powder
Want the whole ritual in one box, including a kessa glove? See The Queen's Pack, or browse all Moroccan black soap and our Royal Packs. Every UK order ships with free delivery.