Ayéya’s unique African black soap products are steeped in centuries of African heritage, offering a natural solution to skin health. Each soap is meticulously crafted, blending rich, nourishing ingredients that work harmoniously to promote vibrant, healthy skin. As you explore Ayéya’s offerings, you’ll find a brand committed not only to quality but also to ethical practices and sustainability.
Founded in 2022 by Olowo-n’djo “Olo”, Ayéya was born with a mission to create positive change in his homeland of Togo, West Africa. Olo’s own experience of growing up in poverty led to his passion to address the injustices he once experienced – gender inequality, poverty, and lack of access to basic needs. Today, Ayéya works with cooperatives across 12 villages, with more than 5,000 female artisans working to sustain local economies and support Fair Trade labor. Through their commitment to nurture the sacred relationships between people, planet, and culture, Ayéya strives to create a future where all communities can thrive in balance.
The Essence of Black Soap from Africa
African Black Soap, with its distinct earthy tones and texture, boasts a rich history dating back centuries. Originating from West Africa, this soap is crafted using time-honored methods passed down through generations. The process involves sun-drying the outer bark of the plantain tree, combined with fermented cocoa pods, palm oil, and other natural ingredients.
The distinctive ingredients in African black soap elevate its status in skincare. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins such as A and E, the soap often includes shea butter and palm oil, each offering unique African soap benefits. Each of Ayéya’s soap-based formulas contain a minimum of 50% shea content (dry weight), which is unlike most shea formulas on the market. Shea butter is celebrated for its moisturizing properties and each bar features its own unique blend of herbs such as moringa and cinnamon. These soap bars can be used as a facial cleanser, body wash, or shaving cream. This combination makes African Black Soap a powerhouse for cleansing, exfoliating, and nourishing the skin, becoming a staple for those seeking natural skincare solutions.
A Commitment to Ethics
Ayéya believes beauty should align with ethics. Their commitment to ethical practices is deeply rooted in their mission to support women artisans in West Africa. By partnering with skilled female artisans, Ayéya empowers these talented individuals while preserving traditional African black soap crafting methods. Each purchase directly supports these artisans, providing them financial independence and uplifting their families.
Beyond supporting artisans, Ayéya is dedicated to sustainable sourcing of raw materials. Collaborating with local farmers, they ensure environmentally friendly harvesting of ingredients used in African black soap products. Ayéya’s sustainability focus prioritizes ecosystem health, maintaining product purity and efficacy. This commitment to sustainable sourcing not only cares for the planet but promotes agricultural practices benefiting local communities. Plus, Ayéya implements sustainable community investments to lower climate impact which include tree planting, installing solar and other climate-energy sources at production centers and warehouses, and creating centrally located warehouses to reduce transport distances.
Ayéya’s ethical commitment resonates beyond artisans and sustainability, impacting local communities and economies. Their initiatives foster economic growth, create job opportunities, and encourage fair trade practices. Ayéya’s community development initiatives include building water wells to provide clean water to over 2 million people in West Africa and creating programs to end domestic violence. Investing in the communities where their products originate helps build resilient economies thriving on mutual support and shared success.
Our Favorite Products
Ayéya’s traditional soap bars address a variety of common skin concerns such as dryness, dullness, and sensitivity. Plus, they can be used as a facial cleanser, body wash, or shaving lather, providing all-in-one care! For extra moisture, their whipped shea butter products melt effortlessly into the skin and are packed with essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and skin-loving vitamins. Additionally, Ayéya’s baby line, including bath soaks, balms, whipped butters, shampoo, and conditioner, are free of harsh chemicals and designed to soothe, protect, and comfort delicate skin.
We hope you enjoyed learning more about Ayéya’s products and what makes them stand out as a brand! If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment below or visit us in-stores.
