Worshipped since the dawn of time, shea butter is a magical ingredient in cosmetics. What are its benefits? How do you use it? Let's talk about it. 

Mother Nature delivers everything we need on a platter to take care of ourselves. Shea butter is one of those 100% natural nuggets that we can't live without once tamed. Although it is often used in cooking, it is above all in cosmetics that it has conquered hearts... 

What exactly is shea butter? 

Shea butter is a natural fatty substance extracted from the nuts of the shea tree, which grows mainly in West Africa. It has been used for centuries in the regions where the tree is cultivated, both for food and for skin and hair care. The manufacturing process begins with the collection of the fruits of the shea tree. The fruit resembles a large plum containing a nut, which is used to extract the butter. How does it work? The nuts are first shelled to remove the outer shell. They are then lightly roasted, giving the shea butter its characteristic smoky aroma.

Shea butter has a creamy texture and a pale yellow color. It is very rich in fatty acids, notably oleic, stearic and linoleic acids. These fatty acids give it moisturizing, nourishing and protective properties for skin and hair. It's no secret that shea butter is used in many cosmetic products, including moisturizers, body lotions, lip balms and hair products. It is renowned for its skin-soothing properties, helping to moisturize and soften dry areas, reduce irritation and itching, and promote cell regeneration.

Shea butter, a (very) powerful moisturizer 

Shea butter is reputed to be particularly moisturizing, and is used in particular to deeply hydrate the skin. The reason? It's rich in fatty acids and vitamins, but that's not all: 

1. Essential fatty acids: Shea butter contains large quantities of essential fatty acids, such as oleic acid, stearic acid and linoleic acid. These fatty acids are essential for maintaining skin hydration by forming a protective barrier that prevents the evaporation of water from the skin. They help seal in moisture and keep skin hydrated.

2. Vitamins: Shea butter is rich in vitamins A and E. Vitamin A promotes cell regeneration, contributing to healthy, well-moisturized skin. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin against free radical damage and helps maintain its elasticity.

3. Emollient properties: Shea butter's emollient properties soften and smooth the skin. It penetrates easily into the upper layers of the epidermis, allowing fatty acids and vitamins to nourish the skin deep down.

4. Anti-inflammatory: Shea butter contains anti-inflammatory compounds such as triterpenes and cinnamates, which can help soothe and calm irritated skin. Particularly beneficial for sensitive or irritation-prone skin, shea butter really does have it all.

5. Water-free: Contrary to popular belief, a cosmetic product doesn't need water to be moisturizing. Shea butter is a 100% natural product and does not require the addition of water. This means it is more concentrated in moisturizing agents and offers longer-lasting hydration.

Shea butter, ideal for curly, dry hair

If it's particularly appreciated for skin care, shea butter is also a precious ally when it comes to caring for curly, dry hair! Its moisturizing, nourishing and repairing properties help restore dry, damaged hair to its former glory. Like a good keratin hair care product, shea butter can help seal hair cuticles, making them smoother and less prone to frizz. Not to mention that it can also help reduce the appearance of split ends and improve overall hair texture. Another of its great assets is the thermal protection it offers hair, forming a protective barrier over the strands to help prevent heat damage from styling tools such as hair dryers, straightening irons or curling irons. It can also protect hair from the sun's harmful UV rays, which is why it's so popular in hot climates. 

How to use shea butter 

This magical ingredient can be used in a variety of ways to enhance your beauty. Here are a few suggestions on how to use it to maximize its benefits.

As a moisturizing body balm 

Since it's self-sufficient, shea butter can be applied pure and directly to the skin for deep moisturizing. Take a small amount of shea butter and heat it in your hands to melt it like vegetable oil. Then apply it to your skin, massaging gently in circular motions until it is fully absorbed. It can be used all over the body, paying particular attention to dry areas such as elbows, knees and heels! To be applied summer and winter for baby-soft skin, it is particularly appreciated by dry skin.

As a lip balm 

Shea butter is an excellent natural lip balm. Simply take a dab of butter, melt it between your fingers and apply directly to the lips. It will help nourish, moisturize and soften dry, chapped lips. Ideally, apply shea butter as a "night mask" in the evening, after your skincare routine, brushing your teeth and before bedtime. Applied all night, it acts deep down to ensure a full, nourished mouth in the morning. 

As a massage butter 

Shea butter is also ideal for massages. In fact, its creamy texture and ability to melt on contact with the skin make it an excellent choice for moisturizing the skin while offering a soothing sensation and delicious scent during and after massage.

Miracle skin care 

Shea butter can also be used for specific skin care purposes, such as treating stretch marks, soothing skin irritations (like eczema, sunburn or psoriasis) or preventing scarring. In these cases, however, it's best to consult a healthcare professional for specific advice.

 To keep your butter at its best, store it at room temperature.