Shea Butter | Moisturizer with benefits

Shea butter has the benefit of hydration while also offering anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activity. Read more...

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Topics

• What are some benefits of shea butter?

• How does shea butter compare to other moisturizers?

• Does shea butter offer vitamins as well?

• How is it best to incorporate shea butter into your skincare routine?

• Are there any skin types that should avoid shea butter?

• Are there any ethical concerns about sourcing shea butter?

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Photo: Wix

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What are some benefits of shea butter?

Shea butter has the benefit of hydration while also offering anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activity.

How does shea butter compare to other moisturizers?

Overall, many moisturizers work by adding moisture to the skin while potentially offering a barrier-like effect to protect the skin from pollutants. Shea butter offers both of these benefits while having additional effects on the skin.

Does shea butter offer vitamins as well?

Vitamin E is found in shea butter. Vitamin E applied topically can penetrate the skin effectively since it is a fat-soluble product. When it penetrates the skin it can make the superficial skin layers more hydrated to prevent dry skin that can lead to eczema. It has also been used to manage scars and burns given its ability to help soothe the skin. Vitamin E applied to the skin does have an emollient or hydrating effect. Hydrating the superficial layers of skin, it can minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It is not necessarily ‘reversing’ the signs of aging. It is more likely to hydrate the skin effectively to minimize the appearance of aging.

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Vitamin A is also found in shea butter. Retinol is a form of vitamin A. Retinol is known for its wide range of skin benefits including:

• ​Boosting collagen production

• Increase hydration in the skin by increasing hyaluronic acid

• Treatment and management of photoaging of the skin

• Management of sun damage and precancerous skin lesions

• Improve discoloration of the skin

How is it best to incorporate shea butter into your skincare routine?

The texture of shea butter can make it challenging to use with other products. Ideally, it is used on its own overnight. If you are using other skincare products, it is best to use those first and layer the shea butter on top. It is challenging to use cosmetic or pigmented products on top of shea butter so it's better to use shea butter at night.

Are there any skin types that should avoid shea butter?

Shea butter is considered non-comedogenic so it is not unreasonable to even consider in the setting of acne for added hydration when using acne products that can be drying.

Are there any ethical concerns about sourcing shea butter?

Shea butter comes from seeds from the shea butter tree found in West Africa. The nuts from the shea tree are collected mostly by women. With the high demand for the products comes a risk. Seeking products that are ethically sourced can help reduce the chances of receiving a product sourced under questionable conditions.