For more than two thousand years, Aleppo soap has been handmade in Syria using a recipe that has barely changed. This natural soap is widely regarded as the world’s first hard soap, and its legacy continues to shape how we think about skincare today. With growing interest in natural, chemical-free products, Aleppo soap is experiencing a well-deserved revival.
What Makes Aleppo Soap Unique?
Aleppo soap is crafted using just four simple, natural ingredients: olive oil, laurel oil, water, and lye. Unlike commercial soaps filled with detergents and synthetic fragrances, every bar of Aleppo soap is free from harsh chemicals and additives. The soap is boiled, poured, cut into blocks, and then left to cure for up to nine months. During this time, the soap hardens, develops its signature golden-brown exterior, and retains its soft green core.
The secret ingredient, laurel oil, is what sets Aleppo soap apart from other traditional olive oil soaps. Laurel oil is known for its antibacterial, antifungal, and soothing properties, making this soap a natural choice for those with sensitive skin, acne, or eczema.

Skin Benefits of Aleppo Soap
Aleppo soap is more than just a cleanser — it’s skincare rooted in tradition. The combination of olive oil and laurel oil brings a wide range of benefits:
Gentle moisturising: Olive oil is rich in vitamins A and E, which nourish and protect the skin barrier.
Soothing action: Laurel oil calms irritation and can help manage breakouts, rashes, and minor skin conditions.
Non-drying: Unlike many mass-produced soaps, Aleppo soap cleanses without stripping natural oils from the skin.
Multi-purpose use: Aleppo soap can be used as a facial cleanser, body wash, shampoo, or even for shaving.
Eco-Friendly and Sustainable
In today’s world of single-use plastics and synthetic skincare products, Aleppo soap also stands out for its eco-friendly qualities. Each bar is completely biodegradable, comes plastic-free, and lasts much longer than liquid soaps or shower gels. Choosing Aleppo soap means supporting a tradition that is both sustainable and environmentally conscious.
A Heritage Worth Preserving
Handmade Aleppo soap is not just a product — it’s a symbol of resilience and culture. Despite years of conflict in Syria, artisans continue to produce this timeless soap, keeping alive a craft that has been passed down for generations. By choosing Aleppo soap, you’re not only benefiting your skin but also supporting the preservation of an ancient heritage.
Where to Buy Authentic Aleppo Soap in the UK
If you’re looking to experience this remarkable soap for yourself, always make sure you’re buying the real thing. Authentic Aleppo soap has a rough, cube-like shape, a stamped seal, and a brown surface with a green interior. At Soapness.co.uk , we specialise in sourcing genuine Aleppo soap, handmade using traditional methods and natural ingredients.