# SheaMoisture African Black Soap Clarifying Facial Wash & Scrub for oily skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for oily skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/sheamoisture/african-black-soap-clarifying-facial-wash-and-scrub/for/oily-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Canada.

Brand: [SheaMoisture](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/sheamoisture)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/exfoliators)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily skin: shine, enlarged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

One of the best products for oily skin.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your oily skin, this formulation leverages salicylic acid and theobroma cacao pod ash for excellent exfoliation and pore cleansing, while tea tree oil provides antimicrobial benefits to manage oiliness.
- The inclusion of willow bark extract and panthenol offers additional soothing and hydrating properties, supporting overall skin health.
- The product is safe for your skin, with no identified risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh or prohibited ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/sheamoisture/african-black-soap-clarifying-facial-wash-and-scrub/for/oily-skin): High (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/sheamoisture/african-black-soap-clarifying-facial-wash-and-scrub/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/sheamoisture/african-black-soap-clarifying-facial-wash-and-scrub/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/sheamoisture/african-black-soap-clarifying-facial-wash-and-scrub/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/sheamoisture/african-black-soap-clarifying-facial-wash-and-scrub/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/sheamoisture/african-black-soap-clarifying-facial-wash-and-scrub/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/sheamoisture/african-black-soap-clarifying-facial-wash-and-scrub/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/sheamoisture/african-black-soap-clarifying-facial-wash-and-scrub/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/sheamoisture/african-black-soap-clarifying-facial-wash-and-scrub/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

African Black Soap, Tamarindus Indica Extract, Oil Tree, Shea Butter, Salicylic Acid

## What the research says

- Twice daily application of a multitargeted dermocosmetic cream provided comparable efficacy to benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in reducing inflammatory, non-inflammatory, and total lesions in 150 Caucasian subjects with mild-to-moderate acne over 56 days, while demonstrating superior skin tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/))
- The use of a salicylic acid-based dermocosmetic significantly reduces the needed quantity of benzoyl peroxide without impacting efficacy in mild to moderate acne, and as maintenance post-benzoyl peroxide allows a significant reduction of acne relapse compared to vehicle. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/))
- Topical dexpanthenol acts as a moisturizer, improves stratum corneum hydration, accelerates wound healing and epidermal regeneration, reduces erythema, and improves symptoms of skin irritation compared to vehicle or no pretreatment. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/))
- A new topical panthenol-containing emollient significantly improved transepidermal water loss reduction, stratum corneum hydration, and intercellular lipid lamellae length compared with control in healthy subjects without negatively impacting bacterial viability. ([The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/))
- A panthenol-enriched mask significantly decreased erythema and hyperpigmentation, increased sebum and stratum corneum moisture, and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to a saline dressing in 60 subjects undergoing facial laser treatment. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40613435/))
- A survey of 100 black soap users demonstrated that the vast majority found the soap helpful for overall skin care and dermatologic conditions such as acne and dark spots. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29104719/))
- Topical application of a water-in-oil cosmetic emulsion containing 4% Tamarindus indica seeds extract significantly improved skin elasticity, moisture content, and surface evaluation parameters in 11 healthy male volunteers compared to a control base over 12 weeks. ([Postepy Dermatologii I Alergologii, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28951709/))
- Tamarindus indica n-hexane extracts from various organs demonstrated anti-inflammatory and wound healing activities by inhibiting nitric oxide and promoting fibroblast migration in in-vitro assays compared to control cells. ([Plants, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36616217/))
- Topical lycopene-enriched virgin olive oil provides effective pain relief similar to a placebo in patients with burning mouth syndrome, showing a strong placebo effect. ([Journal of Oral Rehabilitation, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24612248/))
- A combination cream of stimu-tex AS and saccharide isomerate reduced erythema, increased skin capacitance, and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to placebo in 20 subjects after fractional CO2 laser procedure without causing serious adverse events. ([Lasers in Medical Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41134387/))
- A skin barrier restoring cream with shea butter, silkflo, and vitamin E increased type I procollagen synthesis, enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity, decreased reactive oxygen species generation, and promoted hyaluronic acid production in H2O2-stimulated human keratinocyte cells compared to untreated cells. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39528438/))
- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen achieved a higher cure rate (39%) than salicylic acid (24%) and a wait-and-see approach (16%) for cutaneous warts at 13 weeks in primary care patients. ([CMAJ, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20837684/))
- A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/))
- Treatment with 2% supramolecular salicylic acid hydrogel resulted in a regression and markedly improvement rate of 51.01% compared to 43.10% for Adapaline gel in patients with mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris, showing no significant difference in efficacy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590107/))

## How to apply

- Use this exfoliant product as part of your PM routine once a week. Start slowly and build up frequency only if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the exfoliant after cleansing and toner, but right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin and let it absorb fully. Avoid any harsh rubbing to keep your skin calm.
- Apply the exfoliant directly onto completely dry skin to get the best balance and results. Clean, dry skin helps the product work evenly.
- Always avoid the delicate eye area when applying. Be sure to use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily while using exfoliating acids.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes SheaMoisture African Black Soap Clarifying Facial Wash & Scrub a great fit for oily skin?

This product is a great fit because it uses salicylic acid and cocoa pod ash to deeply clean pores and lift away dead skin, while tea tree oil helps manage extra oil. It is also unlikely to irritate your skin and includes panthenol to help keep it calm and comfortable.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

### Which ingredients make this exfoliant a good fit for oily skin?

Salicylic acid and cocoa pod ash provide deep exfoliation and pore cleansing, while tea tree oil helps manage extra oil. Willow bark extract and panthenol add soothing and gentle hydration benefits, and the product has a very safe profile for your skin.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

### What does African Black Soap do for oily skin?

Traditional African black soap helps manage oily skin by providing antimicrobial properties that support overall skin health. It is important to use it gently, as soaps of this type can sometimes feel drying.
Sources: [Dermatologic Therapy, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33571401/)

### What does Tamarind Extract do for oily skin?

Tamarind extract helps keep oily skin feeling smooth and fresh without feeling heavy or clogged. It provides light hydration while helping to clear away dead surface cells that can lead to breakouts.

### Where does this exfoliant go in a skincare routine for oily skin?

This exfoliant treatment goes in the evening routine once a week to start. People who tolerate it well and see good results may carefully use it more often.

### Can I use this exfoliant with retinol, and in what order?

It is best to use this exfoliant on nights when you do not apply your retinol, as using both active ingredients together may lead to irritation on oily skin. You can alternate them on different nights or use the exfoliant in your morning routine and retinol at night.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

Start using this exfoliant treatment once a week as part of your evening routine, and if your oily skin handles it well with good results, you may carefully use it more often. This product is very safe for your skin, with no identified risks of irritation due to the lack of harsh or prohibited ingredients.

### Can this exfoliant clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily skin?

This exfoliant is a great fit for oily skin and helps clear pores without clogging them or causing breakouts. It uses salicylic acid and tea tree oil to manage oiliness safely and is unlikely to irritate your skin.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/)

### Is this exfoliant fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetyl alcohol and myristyl alcohol are fatty alcohols, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/panoxyl/acne-foaming-wash/for/oily-skin) — Average fit — CA$11.75 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — CA$37.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — CA$29.98 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Canada has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Water, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Cetyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Myristyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, Mangifera Indica Seed Oil, Myristic Acid, Coconut Acid, Jojoba Esters, Polysorbate 60, Glyceryl Caprylate, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Shea Butter, Blend Essential Oil, Sodium Palm Kernelate, Sodium Shea Butterate, Sodium Cocoate, Theobroma Cacao Pod Ash, Salix Nigra Bark Extract Willow Bark Extract, Salicylic Acid, Nigella Sativa Seed Oil, Ormenis Multicaulis Oil, Bisabolol, Melaleuca Alternifolia Tree Oil Leaf, Decyl Glucoside, Tamarindus Indica Fruit Extract, Panthenol, Potassium Hydroxide, Glyceryl Undecylenate
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/sheamoisture/african-black-soap-clarifying-facial-wash-and-scrub/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/sheamoisture/african-black-soap-clarifying-facial-wash-and-scrub/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/sheamoisture/african-black-soap-clarifying-facial-wash-and-scrub/for/oily-skin
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- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/sheamoisture/african-black-soap-clarifying-facial-wash-and-scrub/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/sheamoisture/african-black-soap-clarifying-facial-wash-and-scrub/for/oily-skin
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