When it comes to personal care products, I’m always on the lookout for something that is natural, effective, and good for my skin. I recently decided to try out the Nubian Heritage Raw Shea Butter Soap, a product known for its moisturizing properties and rich ingredients. With its blend of shea butter, frankincense, and myrrh, it certainly caught my attention. But does it live up to the hype? In this review, I’ll share my honest experience, covering everything from packaging to effectiveness—both the good and the not-so-good.
Packaging
Right off the bat, the packaging gives a natural and earthy feel. The soap comes in a simple paperboard box that is recyclable, which I appreciate as an eco-conscious consumer. The design features images of shea nuts and earthy tones, emphasizing its natural ingredients. While the box isn’t flashy, it does include all the important details—ingredients, usage instructions, and company background.
When it comes to functionality, the box is easy to open, and the soap itself is a standard rectangular bar, making it simple to handle. The soap is light brown in color, a result of the raw shea butter, and has a smooth texture with occasional natural variations. Overall, the packaging is practical and aligns well with the brand’s commitment to natural beauty.
Ingredients
One of the standout features of this soap is its ingredient list. It primarily contains natural ingredients, with shea butter being the star component. Known for its deep moisturizing properties, shea butter makes this soap particularly beneficial for dry skin. Other ingredients include frankincense and myrrh extracts, which add to the soap’s unique scent and potential skin-soothing benefits.
That being said, the soap does contain some synthetic additives, including fragrance (parfum). While this gives the soap its pleasant aroma, it might be a potential irritant for those with sensitive skin. The current formula also seems to contain less shea butter than previous versions, which some long-time users have pointed out as a downside. While the soap isn’t explicitly marketed as hypoallergenic, it does include ethically sourced, certified Fair Trade shea butter.
Overall, the ingredient list is solid, but if you have fragrance sensitivities, you may want to proceed with caution.
Scent
If you enjoy warm, earthy scents, you’ll probably love the fragrance of this soap. The combination of frankincense and myrrh gives it a rich, slightly spicy aroma that feels both luxurious and grounding. The scent is moderate to strong, making it noticeable but not overpowering. It also lingers mildly on the skin after use, which is a nice touch.
However, it’s important to note that the scent isn’t purely natural. While it does have essential oil components, there is a definite “perfumey” quality, which might not be appealing to those who prefer 100% essential oil-based fragrances. Some users have also mentioned that the scent strength varies between batches, so consistency might be an issue. Despite this, I personally found the scent to be pleasant and soothing, especially during a relaxing shower.
Effectiveness
The real test of any soap is how well it works, and in this regard, Nubian Heritage Raw Shea Butter Soap does a great job. It cleanses thoroughly, removing dirt and impurities without stripping the skin of moisture. Thanks to the shea butter, it leaves the skin feeling soft and hydrated, which is particularly beneficial for dry or mature skin.
While the soap isn’t marketed as an acne treatment, some users (myself included) have noticed an improvement in skin clarity, likely due to its gentle, non-irritating formula. It also helps with body odor, making it a solid everyday soap.
That being said, the fragrance could be irritating for those with highly sensitive skin or eczema. Some reviewers with severe eczema have mentioned experiencing irritation, while others with mild eczema found it to be soothing. It’s worth testing on a small patch of skin if you have sensitivity concerns.
Overall, in terms of cleansing and moisturizing, this soap delivers. The only potential downside is the fragrance, which might not work for everyone.
Size and Lifespan
The soap comes in a 5 oz (141 g) bar, which is a standard size for bar soaps. It is moderately hard, which means it doesn’t melt away too quickly. With regular use, it lasts for several weeks, making it quite long-lasting compared to other natural soaps.
To maximize its lifespan, it’s best to store it in a dry place between uses. If left in standing water, it can become soft and wear down faster. Overall, the durability is impressive, and it provides good value for the price.
Brand Reputation
Nubian Heritage is owned by Sundial Brands, a company known for its commitment to natural ingredients and ethical sourcing. They have received recognition for their sustainable and Fair Trade practices, particularly with their shea butter sourced from women’s cooperatives in Ghana.
They are also cruelty-free, which is a huge plus for many consumers. Their commitment to community development and environmental sustainability adds to their credibility as a responsible brand.
Price and Value
At around $4-$6 per bar, this soap is competitively priced when compared to other natural and Fair Trade soaps. Considering its high-quality ingredients, ethical sourcing, and long-lasting nature, it offers great value for money.
It is often available in multi-packs, which can lower the price per bar. Additionally, many retailers offer sales and bundle deals, making it more affordable for regular use.
Availability
One of the best things about this soap is how easy it is to find. It is widely available both in stores and online, including major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target. It can also be found in health stores and specialty shops.
If you prefer to shop online, shipping costs and times will depend on the retailer, but it’s generally readily available without long wait times.
- Moisturizing and great for dry skin
- Ethically sourced shea butter
- Long-lasting and durable bar
- Rich, warm scent
- Cruelty-free and eco-conscious packaging
- Fragrance may irritate sensitive skin
- Formula may have changed over time
- Scent strength can vary between batches
Overall Rating
After using this soap for several weeks, I’d give it a 4.5 out of 5 stars. It’s a fantastic option for those looking for a moisturizing, ethically sourced soap with a unique scent. While the fragrance might not suit everyone, it remains a high-quality product at a reasonable price. I would definitely repurchase it and recommend it to others looking for a natural bar soap with great cleansing and skin-softening benefits.
