Aleppo Soap for Psoriasis & Eczema: Gentle Support for Stressed, Flaky Skin

Psoriasis and eczema are two of the most common chronic skin conditions affecting millions worldwide. While they have different underlying causes, they share a critical characteristic: a compromised skin barrier that leaves skin vulnerable, inflamed, and uncomfortable.

Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is an inflammatory condition where the skin's natural protective barrier is weakened, allowing moisture to escape and irritants to penetrate. This leads to intense itching, redness, dryness, and sometimes painful cracking. Psoriasis, on the other hand, is an autoimmune condition where skin cells multiply too rapidly, creating thick, silvery scales and inflamed patches. Both conditions can be triggered or worsened by harsh soaps, synthetic fragrances, preservatives, and environmental stressors.

The problem with conventional soaps is that they strip away the skin's natural oils and disrupt the delicate pH balance. This is especially problematic bodyfor psoriasis and eczema sufferers, whose skin is already struggling to maintain its protective barrier. What these conditions need is not aggressive cleansing, but gentle, nourishing support.

Why Traditional Aleppo Soap Works for Reactive Skin

Aleppo soap has been used for centuries in the Mediterranean region, where it was traditionally recommended for various skin conditions, including those affecting the skin barrier. Its effectiveness lies in its simple, natural composition and the unique properties of its two primary ingredients: olive oil and laurel oil.

Olive Oil: The Skin Barrier's Best Friend

Olive oil is rich in oleic acid, squalene, and polyphenols—compounds that deeply nourish and protect the skin. For psoriasis and eczema sufferers, olive oil provides several critical benefits:

• It locks in moisture without creating a suffocating occlusive layer, allowing the skin to breathe while preventing transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
• It contains antioxidants that reduce inflammation and calm irritated skin.
• It strengthens the skin's natural barrier by replenishing lipids that are often depleted in reactive skin conditions.
• It is non-comedogenic and gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin types.

Unlike mineral oil or silicones found in many commercial products, olive oil is biocompatible with human skin and has been shown in dermatological studies to support barrier repair.

Laurel Oil: Nature's Anti-Inflammatory Agent

Laurel oil is where Aleppo soap truly shines for psoriasis and eczema. This precious oil, derived from the berries of the Laurus nobilis tree, has been valued in traditional medicine for its powerful therapeutic properties.

For reactive skin conditions, laurel oil offers:

• Anti-inflammatory action: Laurel oil contains compounds like cineole and pinene that reduce inflammation at the skin level, calming the redness and swelling characteristic of both psoriasis and eczema flare-ups.
• Antimicrobial properties: While psoriasis and eczema are not infections, secondary bacterial colonization can occur on damaged skin. Laurel oil's natural antimicrobial properties help prevent this complication.
• Soothing relief: The oil has a gentle, cooling effect that can help reduce the intense itching associated with these conditions.
• Barrier support: Like olive oil, laurel oil helps reinforce the skin's protective barrier, addressing the root cause of both conditions.

The combination of olive oil and laurel oil in Aleppo soap creates a synergistic effect that is far more effective than either ingredient alone.

  

The Importance of Laurel Oil Percentage for Psoriasis and Eczema

Not all Aleppo soaps are created equal. The percentage of laurel oil in the soap directly correlates with its therapeutic strength. For psoriasis and eczema sufferers, this percentage matters significantly.

Lower Laurel Oil Percentages (5-10%)

These soaps are gentler and more suitable for mild eczema or as a maintenance soap during periods of remission. They provide basic nourishment and gentle cleansing without overwhelming sensitive skin.

Medium Laurel Oil Percentages (15-20%)

This range is ideal for most people with psoriasis or eczema. It offers a balanced approach, enough laurel oil to provide meaningful anti-inflammatory and soothing benefits, while remaining gentle enough for daily use without irritation.

Higher Laurel Oil Percentages (25-40%)

These premium soaps are recommended for more severe cases or acute flare-ups. The increased concentration of laurel oil provides stronger therapeutic support, though they should be used with care and potentially under guidance from a dermatologist.

For most people starting with Aleppo soap for psoriasis or eczema, a 15-20% laurel oil soap is the sweet spot. It provides noticeable benefits without the risk of over-treating sensitive skin.

How to Use Aleppo Soap for Psoriasis and Eczema

Using Aleppo soap correctly is essential for maximizing its benefits and avoiding irritation.

Preparation and Application

• Wet your skin with lukewarm (not hot) water. Hot water can trigger flare-ups and increase inflammation.
• Gently lather the soap in your hands or with a soft washcloth. Avoid vigorous scrubbing, which can irritate already-sensitive skin.
• Apply the lather gently to affected areas, using light circular motions.
• Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, ensuring no soap residue remains.

Frequency

For psoriasis and eczema, less is often more. Start with once daily cleansing, preferably in the evening. If your skin tolerates this well, you can gradually increase to twice daily. Some people find that using Aleppo soap only on affected areas and using it less frequently (every other day) works better for their skin.

Post-Cleansing Care

This is crucial. After cleansing with Aleppo soap, apply a moisturizer while your skin is still slightly damp. This helps lock in hydration and further supports barrier repair. Look for moisturizers with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or additional natural oils.

What to Expect: The Timeline for Improvement

Patience is essential when using Aleppo soap for psoriasis or eczema. These are chronic conditions, and improvement takes time.

Week 1-2: You may notice that your skin feels less tight and irritated immediately after cleansing. The gentle nature of Aleppo soap means no harsh stripping sensation.

Week 2-4: Itching may begin to decrease as inflammation calms. You might notice the first signs of reduced redness or scaling.

Week 4-8: More noticeable improvements typically emerge. Flare-ups may become less frequent or less severe. Skin texture may improve, and the constant urge to scratch may diminish.

Week 8+: With consistent use, many people experience significant improvement in their symptoms. Some achieve periods of remission or near-remission, though psoriasis and eczema are chronic conditions that may flare again with triggers.

It's important to note that individual results vary. Some people see dramatic improvements, while others experience more modest benefits. The key is consistency and patience.

Choosing the Right Aleppo Soap for Your Condition

When selecting an Aleppo soap for psoriasis or eczema, consider these factors:

Authenticity: Look for soaps made using traditional methods in the Levantine region. Authentic Aleppo soap is made through a saponification process that preserves the beneficial properties of the oils. Avoid mass-produced imitations that may contain synthetic additives.

Laurel Oil Percentage: As discussed, choose based on the severity of your condition. Start conservatively and adjust as needed.

Scent Sensitivity: Some people with reactive skin are sensitive to fragrances, even natural ones. If you have fragrance sensitivity, opt for unscented or lightly scented varieties. Aleppo Tree offers both traditional unscented soaps and subtly scented options, allowing you to choose based on your tolerance.

Curing Time: Traditionally cured Aleppo soaps (aged for months) are gentler and more effective than quickly produced versions. The curing process allows the soap to fully saponify and develop its therapeutic properties.

Combining Aleppo Soap with Other Natural Remedies

While Aleppo soap is powerful on its own, it works even better as part of a comprehensive skincare routine for psoriasis and eczema.

Moisturizing Oils: After cleansing, consider applying a light layer of additional natural oils like jojoba oil or rosehip oil. These complement Aleppo soap's benefits and provide extra barrier support.

Hydration: Drink plenty of water. Skin health starts from within, and proper hydration supports barrier function.

Stress Management: Stress is a major trigger for both psoriasis and eczema flare-ups. Incorporating stress-reduction practices like meditation, yoga, or gentle exercise can enhance the benefits of your skincare routine.

Dietary Considerations: Some people find that reducing inflammatory foods and increasing omega-3 intake helps manage their symptoms. While not a direct replacement for topical care, nutrition plays a supporting role.

When to Seek Professional Guidance

While Aleppo soap is a natural and gentle option, psoriasis and eczema are medical conditions that sometimes require professional support.

Consider consulting a dermatologist if:

• Your symptoms worsen despite consistent use of Aleppo soap.
• You develop signs of infection (increased warmth, pus, or spreading redness).
• Your condition significantly impacts your quality of life or sleep.
• You want to combine Aleppo soap with prescribed treatments.

A dermatologist can help you develop a comprehensive treatment plan that may include Aleppo soap as a foundational element alongside other therapies if needed.

Why Choose Aleppo Tree for Your Psoriasis and Eczema Care

At Aleppo Tree, we understand that people with psoriasis and eczema need more than just a soap, they need a trusted partner in their skincare journey. Our Aleppo soaps are:

• Authentically crafted using traditional methods that preserve the therapeutic properties of olive and laurel oils.
• Available in multiple laurel oil percentages, allowing you to choose the right strength for your specific needs.
• Carefully sourced from sustainable suppliers who respect both the environment and traditional production methods.
• Backed by centuries of use and supported by modern understanding of skin barrier health.

Whether you're dealing with mild eczema or more severe psoriasis, Aleppo Tree offers options designed to support your skin's natural healing process without harsh chemicals or synthetic additives.  

Conclusion: Gentle, Natural Support for Reactive Skin

Psoriasis and eczema are challenging conditions, but they don't have to mean a lifetime of harsh treatments and uncomfortable skin. Aleppo soap represents a return to time-tested, natural skincare that works with your skin's biology rather than against it.

By choosing a high-quality Aleppo soap with an appropriate laurel oil percentage and using it as part of a gentle, consistent routine, you're giving your skin the support it needs to heal and strengthen its barrier. Combined with proper moisturizing, hydration, and stress management, Aleppo soap can be a transformative addition to your psoriasis and eczema care regimen.

Your skin deserves gentleness. Your skin deserves Aleppo.

FAQ

1. Can Aleppo soap cure psoriasis or eczema?

Aleppo soap does not cure psoriasis or eczema, as both are chronic conditions. However, it can gently support the skin by calming inflammation, reducing dryness, and strengthening the skin barrier, which may help lessen flare-ups and discomfort over time.

2. What laurel oil percentage is best for psoriasis and eczema?

For most people, a 15–20% laurel oil Aleppo soap offers the best balance of soothing and barrier support. Mild cases may benefit from 5–10%, while more severe flare-ups may respond better to 25–40%, used carefully.

3. Is Aleppo soap safe for daily use on sensitive or inflamed skin?

Yes, Aleppo soap is generally safe for daily use when used gently with lukewarm water. Many people with reactive skin prefer starting once daily and adjusting frequency based on how their skin responds.

4. Can Aleppo soap be used alongside prescription treatments?

Yes, Aleppo soap can usually be used alongside prescribed creams or medications, but it’s best to consult a dermatologist before combining treatments, especially during active flare-ups or when using medicated products.

5. How long does it take to see results with Aleppo soap?

Some people notice reduced tightness and irritation within 1–2 weeks. More visible improvements—such as less itching, redness, or scaling—often appear after 4–8 weeks of consistent use, depending on skin severity and triggers.