A substance native to West Africa thatβs transformed into a beauty elixir.Β For many individuals, shea butter is the beauty superfood.
What is shea butter?
Shea butter comes from the shea nuts of the shea tree (Shea karite tree). The tree grows naturally in West Africa from west Senegal to east Sudan before ending by the Ethiopian highlands. The butter is created when the shea nuts are crushed and slowly roasted into a butter. This process is then followed by the kneading and cooling of the butter before it hardens.
In regards to its nutritional value, this butter is extremely rich in fatty acids, phenolics, and vitamins A, C and E. The combination of these ingredients has led to its prevalent use in hair and skincare products. In fact, studies have highlighted their anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties (1).
Benefits of shea butter
As itβs so rich in compounds that encourage skin and hair health, it is thus a great all-natural beauty product.Β
Anti-aging
Its fatty acid content can fight off free radicals, thus preventing oxidative stress. In regards to skincare, oxidative stress causes premature aging which then leads to wrinkles, fine lines and age spots.
The presence of vitamin A and C inside shea butter encourages the production of collagen, and a study published in the American Journal of Life SciencesΒ revealed how it can also promote cell regeneration. One particular product that contains shea butter and is perfect for anti-aging isΒ Respected Roots Natural Body Butter.
Anti-inflammatory
Dermatitis, psoriasis, and eczema are skin conditions that occur as a result of inflammation. These skin concerns cause dry, flaky, and itchy skin.
Shea butter has been revealed to contain anti-inflammatory properties, and applying it over the irritated skin can soothe the skin and alleviate any sort of discomfort (2).
Haircare
While shea butter is great for skincare, itβs just as effective in regards to hair care.
The vitamins E and A elements can help to prevent split ends. It is also extremely moisturizing thus it is able to rehydrate the hair after it has lost water due to over-styling and heat damage.
Moreover, as it contains anti-inflammatory properties, it can also help to relieve a dry and itchy scalp. In ensuring a healthy scalp, shea butter promotes healthy hair growth. Try theΒ Shea Moisture 100% Extra Virgin Coconut Oil for healthy and restorative hair growth.
Moisturizing
Dry skin is not only uncomfortable, but it can also lead to painful skin cracks.
Shea butter contains emollient and humectant properties. This then means that it not only hydrates the skin, but it locks in moisture thus keeping the skin hydrated for longer periods of time by penetrating deep into the skin.
Prevents diaper rash
When it comes to baby skincare, itβs important to use products that are free of chemicals and any other potential irritants.
As shea butter encourages both cell regeneration and collagen production,Β it helps to heal diaper rashes. Refer to this lab test study guide when picking the best diapers.
Purchasing shea butter
When it comes to buying high-quality shea butter, itβs important to choose the purest, unrefined form as these are the highest in quality.
Raw unrefined shea butter is void of fragrances, additives, and any other added ingredients. This then makes it much more effective as additives can lessen the butterβs effects. It is also important to smell the butter before you purchase it as any refined version will have a chemical smell as opposed to a nutty scent.
Once youβve purchased your unrefined butter, be sure to store it in a cool place where the temperature doesnβt change as shea butter can easily melt into a liquid when exposed to warm temperatures.Β
Aside from its skincare use, shea butter is also edible. The inclusion of it in your diet can provide a healthy dose of antioxidants and fatty acids. When used in moderation, it can be used in the place of olive oil or even substituted for real butter in sandwiches.
Want to Know More?
Like shea butter, olive oil is rich in fatty acids and antioxidants. In fact, aside from being a staple in your kitchen, olive oil can be just as effective in your beauty cupboard. Click here for more.
