Review (5/5): Incredible stuff.
I'm not going to be able to write enough good things to truly highlight the wonders of this product.
I bought it, frankly, on a whim. I've largely stuck to a narrow variety of men's body wash products over the last 15 years or so. But in recent years I'd been gradually trying to incorporate more natural, chemical-free products into my household, and happened to run across this on Amazon.
Surely many have wondered, just as surely as I did upon opening this package, what on earth Mr. Postman had just delivered to my house. Wow. It was this huge, chunky mass of...stuff...with a very earthy smell.
I took about 1/2 cup of it and made a small bar of soap. It lathers very richly and has a very creamy texture. I use it also to shampoo and shaving cream.
I've been using it for about six months now and this is what I can say:
After the first few times I used it, it seemed to leave my skin dry. After about four days, that abated entirely. Within about 8 days, I thought I noticed something different about my skin quality, but I wasn't sure. After two weeks, the improvements could not be denied.
I've since given several away as gifts to friends and family. I can't imagine that I'll ever use any brand-name soaps ever again. I don't know why I would. This product cleans your skin. The cocoa pod and plantain skin ashes act as natural exfoliators, gradually revealing an evened skin tone and healthier skin. All these months later, my skin continues to improve.
Some complain about the smell of it, but I think it smells great. And 10 minutes after your shower, even what little scent remains quickly fades away. You can add essential oils if you'd like to get creative.
This is some really good soap. Get some for yourself and a few friends or to give as gifts. It lasts forever (between uses, put your bar someplace where it doesn't get water splashed on it or it will "melt").
I've since started using the raw shea butter as well, and using the products in tandem, man, I'll tell you! Unbelievable the results!
I bought the 1 pound package the first time. This is my second order. I recommend highly.