It was a hot summer day when I met Ayana, a woman from Ghana visiting our church. She was a vibrant and warm woman with an infectious smile and flawless skin. As we chatted, I couldn’t help but ask her about the secret to her glowing complexion.
Ayana’s answer was that she likes to use natural oils to moisturize and she also exfoliates with an African exfoliating net. Her grandmother had taught her the technique, and she had been using it ever since. Intrigued, I asked her to show me how it worked.
The African exfoliating net, or “washcloth” as Ayana called it, was made from a natural fiber called ramie. It was rough to the touch but gentle enough to use on the face and body. Ayana wet the net and rubbed it in circular motions all over her skin, paying particular attention to areas like her elbows and feet.
As she exfoliated, Ayana explained that the net helped to remove dead skin cells, which could clog pores and make the skin appear dull. Exfoliation also stimulated blood flow and promoted cell turnover, which resulted in smoother, brighter, and more youthful-looking skin.
After Ayana finished exfoliating, I couldn’t believe the difference in her skin. It was radiant and glowing, and her complexion looked even and smooth. She encouraged me to try it for myself, and I immediately ordered my own African exfoliating net online.
What is an African exfoliating net?
For centuries, these traditional beauty tools have been used by women and men in Africa to maintain healthy, glowing skin.
The African exfoliating net, also known as a sapo, has been a guarded beauty secret of Ghana for hundreds of years. Made of natural fibers like ramie, sisal or even agave, the net is designed to gently scrub away dead skin cells, leaving the skin softer, smoother and brighter.
But the use of African exfoliating nets extends far beyond mere beauty rituals. In many parts of Africa, exfoliation is a cultural practice that is passed down from generation to generation.
Just like Ayana shared her grandmother’s technique with me, many African women learn the art of exfoliation from their female relatives at a young age.
The act of exfoliating has also been used for medicinal purposes in some African cultures. In Nigeria, Ayana explained, they make an exfoliating paste made from ground rice, shea butter, and leaves from the Yoruba tree is applied to the skin to treat various skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis.
In addition, African exfoliating nets are eco-friendly and sustainable, making them a popular choice among those interested in reducing their environmental impact. They’re often used in place of plastic loofahs and can be washed and reused for months.
For more African beauty secrets, read about qasil powder here:
African Fabs shows you how to use an African Exfoliating Net properly:
What are African exfoliating nets made of?
The primary material used in African exfoliating nets is usually plant-based, such as the fibrous material from a type of East African tree known as the “Cape Tree” or the luffa gourd. The net is made of these fine plant-based strands that are twisted together to form a mesh-like fabric. It is super strong and durable and can last for years with proper care.
When wet, the fabric becomes stiff and can be used to scrub the skin. These Cape Tree fibers are soaked in water until they soften, and then they’re used to scrub the skin in a circular motion. This helps to remove dead skin cells and promote new cell growth. Some people also add soap or oil to their exfoliating net for extra cleansing power.
What are the benefits of using an African Exfoliating Net?
Here are just a few of the many benefits of using this traditional beauty tool:
1. Gentle and effective exfoliation
The African exfoliating net is believed to be more effective than other methods of exfoliation, such as scrubs or peels, because it removes dead skin cells gently and does not irritate or damage the skin.
Unlike other exfoliation methods, the net does not contain any harsh chemicals or abrasives that can strip the skin of its natural oils. Ayana mentioned that African black soap is used to exfoliate and provide nutrients, and if it is gentle and natural, use it!
2. Chemical-free skincare
The African exfoliating net is a completely natural and chemical-free way to exfoliate your skin. It does not add any chemicals, stabilizers, preservatives, or anything unnatural to the exfoliating process, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer clean and organic skincare products.
3. Helps clear acne scars and reduce blemishes
Due to its gentle yet effective exfoliating action, the African exfoliating net is said to be beneficial for clearing up acne scars and reducing the appearance of blemishes.
By removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover, the net helps to reveal brighter, smoother, and more even-toned skin.
4. Prevents ingrown hairs
The African exfoliating net can also be used to prevent ingrown hairs in areas like the underarms and inner thighs. By gently exfoliating these areas, the net helps to prevent hair from becoming trapped beneath the skin, leading to fewer ingrown hairs and a smoother, more even complexion overall.
Overall, the African exfoliating net is a must-have beauty tool for anyone looking for a natural and effective way to exfoliate their skin. So why not give it a try and see the glow for yourself!
For additional exfoliation and skin brightening information take a deep dive into Vitamin C Serum:
What is the most authentic and best African exfoliating net to buy?
We chose the Sapor brand because they have a superior and authentic product made with native African plant fibers.
Sapor participates in a fair-trade purchasing process and buys directly from the people who weave these beautiful exfoliating nets in Ghana.
SAPOR Natural African Exfoliating Net Bath
5 minutes showing how to use this African exfoliating net, and how to care for it.
Recommended soaps to use with an African exfoliating net:
Any soap will do, though for the healthiest lather, we recommend one that is handmade with natural moisturizers like goat’s milk, olive oil, or yogurt and one that has fragrances from essential oils like this soap:
Yogurt Glamour-French Lavender Fields-Natural Handmade Yogurt Bar Soap
Why do we love Yogurt Glamour Natural Handmade Soap?
We personally use Yogurt Glamour homemade soap over here at TheWellthieOne.com. We have been buying Yogurt Glamour soap in Orange County, CA, where it is made, for years. It is a small business and their attention to detail and ingredients are exceptional. The fragrances are divine, and the bars are long-lasting.
If you prefer a body wash, we recommend using one where the ingredients are short with safe and natural ingredients for your skin, like this one:
Native Body Wash Natural Body Wash for Women, Men
Why we love Native Body Wash:
- Natural, clean and short ingredient list
- Free of phthalates and sodium lauryl sulfate
- Dye free
- Natural fragrances
- Leaves skin feeling soft
- Vegan and cruelty free
Concluding thoughts on the African Exfoliating Net
If you are like a lot of people, you are taking a look at the food you eat and the products you use, and one by one, you’re picking them off and replacing them with more healthful choices.
Using a plant-based African exfoliating net with natural soaps is one of those changes that when people make it, they wonder why they didn’t do it years ago.
Since meeting Ayana, and adopting her skincare regime wisdom, I have been using the net regularly, and I have noticed a significant improvement in the texture and appearance of my skin. It’s become one of my favorite skincare rituals and something I look forward to every week.
So, if you’re looking for a natural and effective way to exfoliate your skin, take a cue from Ayana!
We wish you well in your continuing journey to optimum health!
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