Other · Various regions

Artisanal Soap Bar

Handmade scented soap bars crafted with olive oil, argan oil, and natural botanicals like rose, orange blossom, lavender, and eucalyptus. Distinct from black soap (savon beldi).

History & Cultural Context

Bar soaps are a modern evolution of Morocco's soap-making tradition. While savon beldi is the paste form used in hammams, artisanal bars are made for daily home use and as affordable gifts. Women's cooperatives are major producers.

Materials

Olive oil and argan oilBase oils for saponification
Essential oils and botanicalsRose, orange blossom, lavender, eucalyptus for scent

Production Techniques

Cold-process saponificationTraditional
Oils mixed with lye and cured for weeks

Production Notes

Cold-process or hot-process saponification using olive oil and argan oil. Scented with essential oils and sometimes containing dried flower petals or scrubbing particles. Cured for 4–6 weeks.

Quality Indicators

Quality

Natural, not overpowering scentLathers well and feels moisturizing

Price Ranges

Budget10 – 25 MAD(~$1 – $3)

Single bar, basic scent

Mid-range25 – 60 MAD(~$3 – $6)

Quality ingredients, cooperative-sourced, gift-wrapped

Premium60 – 150 MAD(~$6 – $15)

Premium argan oil, organic, gift sets of multiple scents