African Black Soap vs Liquid Black Soap: Understanding the Difference So You Can Choose What’s Right for Your Skin

African Black Soap vs Liquid Black Soap: Understanding the Difference So You Can Choose What’s Right for Your Skin

Posted by Leonica Douglas on

African Black Soap has been used for generations — long before modern skincare existed.

Across many cultures, it’s known for its ability to deeply cleanse the skin, clarify breakouts, and reset the skin when concerns like acne or congestion appear. For some people, using African Black Soap daily for a short period — even just a few days — can make a visible difference in how their skin looks and feels.

So when people ask whether African Black Soap or a liquid body wash is “better,” the answer isn’t simple — and it isn’t about right or wrong.

It’s about understanding what you’re using and why.

At Leonica Cosmetics, we offer two forms of African Black Soap because different skin types — and different moments — call for different approaches.


Why African Black Soap has stood the test of time

Authentic African Black Soap is traditionally made using:

  • Plant ash

  • Natural oils

  • Botanical ingredients

Because of this, it is naturally high in alkalinity, which allows it to:

  • Cleanse very deeply

  • Remove buildup and excess oil

  • Support clearer-looking skin for many users

This is why African Black Soap has long been associated with helping acne-prone skin feel cleaner and more balanced when used intentionally.

For some people, especially those with resilient or oilier skin, this type of deep cleansing can be exactly what their skin needs — particularly during flare-ups.


Understanding alkalinity and how it affects the skin

Because authentic African Black Soap is highly alkaline, it can feel:

  • Clarifying

  • Strong

  • Very effective in a short period of time

However, that same strength means it may not be ideal for everyone’s daily routine, especially for those with dry, sensitive, or easily dehydrated skin.

This doesn’t make African Black Soap “too harsh.”
It simply means it is powerful, and powerful tools are best used with understanding.


Why liquid black soap exists

Liquid black soap was developed to offer a more balanced approach to daily cleansing.

While it still honors the essence of traditional African Black Soap, liquid black soap is typically:

  • Formulated to be closer to the skin’s natural pH

  • Less stripping with repeated use

  • More suitable for daily cleansing for a wider range of skin types

At Leonica Cosmetics, our liquid black soap is designed for those who want the benefits of black soap with a gentler, more consistent experience — especially for everyday use.


How Leonica Cosmetics approaches both options

Rather than choosing one over the other, Leonica Cosmetics believes in offering both — with education.

We offer:

  • Authentic African Black Soap
    – high alkalinity
    – deeply cleansing
    – ideal for short-term use or specific skin concerns

  • Liquid Black Soap
    – pH-balanced for the body
    – gentler for daily use
    – supportive of long-term skin comfort

Both serve a purpose.
Neither is “better” — they are simply different tools.


How to choose what’s right for you

You may prefer authentic African Black Soap if:

  • Your skin is oily or very resilient

  • You’re dealing with breakouts or congestion

  • You plan to use it intentionally, not indefinitely

You may prefer liquid black soap if:

  • Your skin feels dry or tight easily

  • You cleanse daily

  • You want balance without frequent adjustment

Listening to how your skin responds is always more important than following blanket advice.


Final thought

African Black Soap has endured for a reason — it works.

Modern formulations exist for a reason too — consistency and comfort matter.

At the end of the day, the best choice is the one that:

  • Respects your skin

  • Fits your routine

  • Supports your goals

Education gives you options.
The choice is always yours.


✨ Available at Leonica Cosmetics

Designed to support your skin — not dictate it.

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