What makes Aleppo soap the world’s most enduring skincare secret
- Ilona
- Oct 20
- 3 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
Few skincare traditions have stood the test of time quite like Aleppo soap. Originating in the historic city of Aleppo nearly 2,000 years ago, this simple yet powerful bar is considered the world’s first hard soap—and the ancestor of all soaps made in Europe. Its minimalist formula of olive oil, laurel berry oil, water, and lye has remained unchanged for centuries. But what truly sets Aleppo soap apart is its remarkable ability to heal and restore even the most sensitive skin. Dermatologists have long recommended it for eczema, acne, psoriasis, rosacea, and fungal irritations, praising its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Unlike modern cleansers filled with synthetics and foaming agents, this ancient bar purifies gently, supports the skin’s microbiome, and restores comfort without stripping away natural oils.
How it’s made
The process begins by gently cooking extra virgin olive oil with water and lye, transforming it into a creamy soap base. Laurel berry oil is then stirred in, imparting the signature herbal aroma and golden-green hue. Once poured into molds and hand-cut into rustic cubes, the soap begins a long curing process—traditionally nine months to a year. During this time, the bars slowly dry and harden, the exterior turning a sandy brown while the inside retains its deep green heart. The longer the cure, the milder and more luxurious the lather becomes—much like fine wine, Aleppo soap only improves with age.
The healing power of olive & laurel berry oils
Extra virgin olive oil is rich in antioxidants like vitamin E and polyphenols, which protect the skin barrier, soften dryness, and promote suppleness. Its gentle cleansing properties nourish even the most sensitive skin.
Virgin laurel berry oil is where Aleppo soap truly shines. Packed with natural antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory compounds, it is traditionally recommended by doctors and dermatologists for skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, and fungal irritations. Its soothing action calms itching, redness, and irritation, making this bar a trusted ally for troubled skin.
The combination results in a cleanser that purifies without stripping—balancing the skin’s natural oils, restoring comfort, and supporting overall skin health.
Why dermatologists recommend it
For generations, Aleppo soap has been prescribed by physicians across the Middle East and Europe for patients with chronic skin conditions. Its gentle, natural composition provides relief without harsh chemicals or synthetic additives. Unlike many modern cleansers, it respects the skin’s microbiome, making it a safe and effective option for daily use on both face and body.
The modern take: Malina Organic Laurel Berry Aleppo Soap
At Malina, we honor this ancient art while giving it a modern, organic twist. Our Organic Laurel Berry Aleppo Soap is made with certified organic extra virgin olive oil and virgin laurel berry oil, following the spirit of the traditional Aleppo method — but crafted using the cold process, which allows us to preserve the oils’ natural goodness.
Unlike the traditional boiled method, cold process soapmaking keeps the oils at low temperatures, protecting their vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids. These nutrients remain active in the final bar, making it far more nourishing, soothing, and moisturizing for the skin. The result is a soap that not only cleanses but truly cares for your skin — helping it stay soft, balanced, and hydrated without stripping away its natural protective barrier.
Each bar cures for a minimum of three months before it reaches your hands—already gentle, creamy, and comforting—but just like authentic Syrian soap, it only gets better with time. As it matures, the lather becomes silkier, the texture softer, and the scent deeper and more inviting.
This is Aleppo reimagined for the modern age — pure, organic, and crafted to deliver the full benefits of nature’s most nourishing oils.
Timeless beauty, reborn
Aleppo soap is more than a cleanser. It’s a living tradition, a connection to ancient wisdom, and a daily ritual that reminds us that nature truly knows best. Whether you use the original Syrian bar or our organic modern version, you’re not just washing your skin—you’re honoring a 2,000-year-old legacy of healing and purity.
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