A naturally nourishing take on Nigerian black soap / 4.2 oz

LIHA Ose Gidi Soap is one of the products that first drew us to this brand (we’ve been waiting for it for a year!). Handmade in small batches, it’s LIHA’s extra-nourishing take on traditional Nigerian black soap, which is typically made only with plantain ash, shea butter, and coconut oil. To get this soap to the perfect balance — deep cleansing and slightly exfoliating, without stripping the skin — founders Liha and Abi added olive and hemp oils, brightening Moringa powder, Blackstrap molasses, and a perfect blend of Bergamot, Benzoin, and Palmarosa essential oils.

LIHA’s Ose Gidi soap was such a hit, but so time-consuming to make in small batches, that Abi and Liha tried to find an outside manufacturer; being the perfectionists they are (which is one of the many things we adore about these women), they ended up keeping the manufacturing in house. It’s available in limited quantities and tends to go out of stock frequently, so we suggest grabbing one (or two, or three) if we have it. It’s marvelous, well worth the hype, and its deep-cleansing properties make it perfect for warmer months in particular.

Read all about the development of Ose Gidi soap in Dara’s interview with Liha.