Description

What Is Shea Butter?

Shea butter is extracted from the nuts of African karite trees (Vitellaria paradoxa), a species that grows from Guinea and Senegal to Uganda and South Sudan. It has long been used for health and cooking in Africa and is also an ingredient in a number of confections, especially chocolate; but its latest role is as the new darling of the beauty and body care world.

Rich in vitamins E and A, among others, this plant lipid has unique properties that make it a standout in the nut oil family. The presence of fatty acids and plant sterols, like oleic, stearic, palmitic and linolenic acids add to shea butter’s notably high non-saponifiable fraction—meaning, it doesn’t convert to soap when introduced to an alkali, which offers greater healing potential for the skin.

It is great for hydrating, moisturizing, and smoothing, as the skin absorbs it well.