Savon Noir

Savon Noir, known in Arabic as Savon Beldi, is a traditional liquid soap from North Africa, since adopted by the French. Based on olive oil, it provides a refreshing natural chemical peel.

For a weekly exfoliation, massage a packet of Savon Noir into the wet body, particularly on any rough areas. Avoid the face, eyes and hair. The soap foams very little. Leave for between 3 and 10 minutes. If the soap begins to dry, wet you hands and rub over the layer of soap. Then massage all of the skin with an exfoliating glove or loofah, rinsing the soap off. Savon Noir can be used weekly or as part of an everyday care routine. Adjust the timing and degree of exfoliation accordingly and try some of the different methods listed below.

In Moroccan hammams (public baths) a Savon Noir treatment forms the first part of the hammam ritual. This is followed by the use of rhassoul clay to wash the hair, face and body and then after the body is dried, the application of argan oil and alum crystal deodorant where needed.

It can be used to replace conventional shower gels. Rub a teaspoon of the soap over the body in the shower. Avoid eyes, face and hair. Exfoliate if necessary. Rinse.