Men washing with Aleppo soap in a traditional hammam.Image ©CUIDA-T.
History
Aleppo soap is considered one of the oldest solid soaps in the world. With over2,000 yearsTraditional soap originated in the Syrian city of Aleppo around 380 BC and is the precursor to many European hard soaps. The Crusaders brought it to the West in the 11th century, and from there it spread, giving rise to the famous Marseille soap.
Their recipe and artisanal method have been passed down through generations by families of Syrian soap masters. After the outbreak of war in Syria, many producers moved their workshops to neighboring countries like Turkey to preserve this ancestral tradition and keep the craft alive.
Elaboration
It is produced traditionally during the winter months. The oils are slowly cooked in large cauldrons, poured onto the ground to solidify, cut by hand, and stamped with the master soap maker's seal.
Then begins the key process: drying and maturing outdoors for a minimum of nine months. During this time, the exterior acquires its characteristic golden-brown hue, while the interior retains its natural olive green color. This slow process is an integral part of its identity.
Composition and character
Traditional Aleppo soap is formulated solely witholive oilandbay leaf oil, a simple combination that makes it a popular choice for those seeking minimalist formulas without added perfumes.
- Olive oil: provides softness and helps maintain natural hydration after cleansing.
- Bay leaf oil: an ingredient traditionally valued in Mediterranean cosmetics for its purifying and balancing properties that help to gently reduce the microbial load.
- Sodium hydroxide: necessary for saponification.
- Water: used in the cooking process.
Higher percentage of laurel → more intense and balancing cleansing.
Higher proportion of olive oil → gentler and more nourishing cleansing.
Traditional usage and percentage selection
Due to its simple formula, Aleppo soap has historically been used for daily hygiene for various skin types. Today, it is chosen by people with sensitive skin or those prone to skin imbalances who seek a gentle cleanser without unnecessary ingredients.
Higher percentages of laurel are usually preferred by those with combination or oily skin, within a regular cosmetic routine.
This is a cosmetic product intended for daily hygiene and does not replace specific dermatological treatments.
