Envision a majestic land of lavender valleys, dusky-hued sunrises and sunsets, jasmine whiffs, and flavoured smells of spices evaporating from the flavoursome tagines. Every time I stepped foot into the North African region, I learnt a new beauty hack that offers one of the most effective and unique skin remedies that are an absolute must-have.
Despite the constant development of the region, women have remained in charge of maintaining traditions that are rooted in beauty; they hold amazingly purifying skin rituals anyone can include in their beauty routine, once they know about them – which is exactly what I’m here to do!
These hacks have been used by women before the generations of colonisation and western influence - hacks that could seriously revamp your skincare routine for the better:
Kessa Glove
This exfoliating scrubbing mitten is an effective addition for bath-time. North Africans use this glove traditionally in Hammam’s and showers. Its typically accompanied with Savon Noir all over the body (except for sensitive areas such as the face) and is excellent in its ability to remove dead skin cells. This exfoliating process will leave your skin instantly reinvigorated and with time, you will notice a difference in the suppleness of your skin if used weekly (or no more than twice a week). Your body will thank you, your skin will be glowing, and if you suffer from ingrown hairs, this will be your holy grail! You can get it for as little as £5.50 from Rituals.
Savon Noir
Part of the unique Hammam ritual as mentioned above, this buttery solid paste is enriched in vitamin E and is organically made among locals. Used for generations due to its dermatological benefits since the nineteenth century, Savon Noir (also known as Black Soap) is an ancient African beauty remedy, with each country in the continent owning their own secret recipe for it. The Beldi (which means "authentic" or "native" in Arabic) soap is organically crafted and one of the most beloved beauty items within the region. It's suitable for all skin types and goes hand in hand with the Kessa glove. You can find a cost-effective, organic Savon Noir accompanied with a Kessa Glove from Amazon, such as this one by Argan Beauty Deep for £14.95. Name a more iconic duo? I’ll wait.
Argan Oil
Known to be grown and sourced from Morocco, Argan oil’s unique vitamin-richness and innumerable skin and hair virtues make it one of the most prized oil gems in the world. Traditionally, the oil has been applied as an ointment for various health benefits, such as treating dry skin, acne, psoriasis, eczema, wrinkles, skin inflammation, joint pain, and hair loss. So, whether you have problematic skin or just in need of an extra “oomph” to your glow, you can’t go wrong with a few drops of this golden goodness in your routine. There are many on the market, but an all-time favourite that lives up to its social media hype is the organic Liquid Gold Pure Argan oil by Ameera London for £19.00.
Ghassoul
The word Ghassoul derives from the Arabic word "to wash", where the purity and cleanliness of this product are truly highlighted. Unique to North Africa, the minerals are found on the beds of the Atlas Mountains and are known to the locals as a rich, deep-cleansing and soothing beauty product for the skin and hair. With weekly use, the indigenous women swear by this hack for their vibrant complexions and healthy hair. The best thing about this? It’s versatility! It’s a mask for both your skin and hair; a two-in-one hero. You can get excellent quality Ghassoul from Savon Stories for as little as £12.00. Alternatively, Ameera London do not disappoint with their organic Ghassoul for £19.99.