The Ancient Art of Aleppo Soap: How it's made and Why It's Good For Your Skin

The Ancient Art of Aleppo Soap: How it's made and Why It's Good For Your Skin

Introduction: A Skincare Legacy from Ancient Syria

For over a thousand years, the people of Aleppo, Syria have been crafting a soap so pure and effective that it remains beloved across cultures and continents. Aleppo soap — or Savon d’Alep — is more than a cleansing bar. It’s a timeless blend of tradition, simplicity, and natural care.

In a world increasingly filled with synthetic skincare products, Aleppo soap stands out as an all-natural, multipurpose solution made from just a few powerful ingredients.

How Authentic Aleppo Soap Is Made

The production of Aleppo soap follows a meticulous process passed down through generations, often taking place in family-run workshops during the cooler winter months. Here’s how it’s made:

1. Saponification: The base ingredients — olive oil, water, and lye — are heated in large cauldrons for several days. This slow cooking process turns the oils into soap while preserving their nourishing properties.

2. Enrichment with Laurel Oil: Once the soap base is ready, laurel oil (from the bay laurel tree) is added. The amount of laurel oil determines the soap’s grade — usually ranging from 5% to 40%.

3. Pouring and Cutting: The thick mixture is poured onto a large surface and left to cool. After it solidifies, it’s hand-cut into cubes and stamped with the maker’s seal.

4. Aging: The soap is then aged for 6 to 12 months in well-ventilated chambers. During this time, the soap hardens and the exterior turns a golden hue, while the interior remains a rich green.

Watch the Process:

Traditional Aleppo Soap-Making (YouTube)

Skincare Benefits of Aleppo Soap

1. Natural Ingredients, No Nasties

Aleppo soap contains no synthetic fragrances, colours, or preservatives. It’s biodegradable and hypoallergenic — perfect for sensitive skin.

2. Moisturising and Healing

The olive oil in Aleppo soap is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, while laurel oil has antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it ideal for people with eczema, acne, psoriasis, and dry skin.

3. Balancing and Non-Comedogenic

Despite being oil-based, Aleppo soap doesn’t clog pores. It gently removes impurities without stripping the skin’s natural oils, making it suitable for all skin types.

A Versatile Wonder: More Than Just a Soap

Aleppo soap is a multitasking powerhouse:

Facial cleanser

Body wash and shampoo

Shaving soap

Makeup remover

Natural moth repellent (when dry and stored in drawers)

Its long-lasting, solid form also makes it travel-friendly and eco-conscious.

Choosing the Right Aleppo Soap

5–10% Laurel Oil: Gentle, suitable for daily use and children.

20–30% Laurel Oil: Balanced — great for normal to combination skin.

40% Laurel Oil: Strongest — best for acne-prone or irritated skin.

Always check for origin authenticity — real Aleppo soap is handmade in Syria or by Syrian artisans using traditional methods, and due to the recent socio-political instability in Syria, often derives across the border in Turkey, the Lebanon, and even France.

Aleppo soap isn’t just an ancient cleanser; it’s a testament to the power of nature and tradition. Whether you’re battling a skin condition or simply want to simplify your skincare routine with something pure, Aleppo soap delivers — gently, effectively, and sustainably.

Check out and buy our Authentic Syrian Aleppo Soap here

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