Aleppo Soap — Authentic Handmade Soap with Olive Oil & Laurel Berry Oil
Traditional cold-process soap made with olive oil and genuine laurel berry oil. No synthetic ingredients.
Authentic Aleppo Soap — A Tradition Spanning Millennia
Aleppo soap is one of the oldest manufactured soaps in history, with a tradition dating back thousands of years to the ancient city of Aleppo in present-day Syria. Our Aleppo soap follows this time-honored recipe: olive oil and laurel berry oil, combined using the traditional cold-process method, with no synthetic ingredients, fragrances, or preservatives.
What makes Aleppo soap unique is the addition of laurel berry oil (Laurus Nobilis Fruit Oil), which gives the soap its distinctive properties. The percentage of laurel berry oil in the formula determines the soap’s characteristics — higher percentages create a richer, more conditioning bar.
Why Choose Authentic Aleppo Soap?
- Two-Ingredient Simplicity: Made with only olive oil and laurel berry oil. No synthetic detergents (SLS/SLES), no artificial fragrances, no preservatives, no palm oil.
- Gentle Formula: The combination of olive oil and laurel berry oil creates a naturally gentle soap suitable for face, body, and hair.
- Ages Like Wine: Aleppo soap improves with age. The bars continue to cure and harden over time, becoming milder and longer-lasting.
- Eco-Friendly: Minimal ingredients, biodegradable, and plastic-free. A zero-waste alternative to liquid body wash.
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Understanding Laurel Oil Percentages
The percentage of laurel berry oil in Aleppo soap determines its properties and price point. Here is a general guide:
- 5–10% Laurel Oil: Gentle, everyday soap. More affordable price point. Good for general body washing.
- 20% Laurel Oil: The traditional mid-range. Richer lather and more conditioning. Popular for face and body.
- 40%+ Laurel Oil: Premium grade. Exceptionally rich and conditioning. Traditionally valued for sensitive skin and hair washing.
Our Aleppo soap uses genuine laurel berry oil — the same ingredient we sell separately in our Laurel Berry Oil collection. This gives our soap authentic character that cannot be replicated with cheaper substitutes.
How to Use Aleppo Soap
Aleppo soap is versatile and can be used for:
- Face Cleansing: Wet the bar, create lather in your hands, and gently wash your face. Rinse thoroughly.
- Body Wash: Use as a regular body soap in the shower or bath. The bar lasts significantly longer than liquid soap.
- Shampoo Bar: Traditional Aleppo soap can be used as a natural shampoo. Follow with an apple cider vinegar rinse for best results.
- Shaving Soap: The rich lather makes Aleppo soap an excellent natural shaving soap.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Aleppo soap good for sensitive skin?
Aleppo soap is traditionally valued for its gentle formula. It contains no synthetic ingredients, fragrances, or preservatives. Many customers with sensitive skin prefer it over commercial soaps. However, we always recommend a patch test first and consulting your dermatologist for specific skin conditions.
Why does Aleppo soap look different on the outside vs inside?
This is normal and actually a sign of authenticity. The brown exterior is caused by natural oxidation during the curing process. When you cut or use the soap, you will see the characteristic green interior color from the laurel berry oil.
How long does a bar of Aleppo soap last?
A single bar typically lasts 4-8 weeks with daily use, depending on the size and how it is stored. Keep the soap dry between uses by placing it on a draining soap dish. Aleppo soap lasts longer than most commercial soaps.
Can I use Aleppo soap on my hair?
Yes. Traditional Aleppo soap has been used as a shampoo bar for centuries. For best results, follow with a diluted apple cider vinegar rinse to restore pH balance and add shine.
What is the difference between Aleppo soap and Castile soap?
Both are traditional Mediterranean soaps, but they differ in ingredients. Castile soap is made with olive oil only, while Aleppo soap combines olive oil with laurel berry oil. The laurel berry oil gives Aleppo soap its distinctive properties and richer lather. Read our comparison guide for a detailed breakdown.