In the beginning of my formulating journey, I knew that shea butter had to be part of the recipe due to its luxurious texture and deep moisturizing capabilities. There was no question about it. However, as my research progressed, I discovered that it had a plethora of amazing benefits. Since then, shea butter became an essential ingredient in some of our formulations as I learned it is one of nature's most powerful wonders for overall skin health.
What is Shea butter?
Shea butter is an incredibly versatile and beneficial natural product that has been used for centuries for its moisturizing and healing properties. But what is it? Shea butter is a natural fat that is extracted from the nuts of the African shea tree. It can vary in color from off-white to yellow and has a smooth, creamy consistency. From its use in cosmetics to its known ability to reduce inflammation, the benefits of shea butter are numerous. In this blog, we'll explore the a few ways in which shea butter can be used to help nourish and protect your skin.
Emollient properties
First, shea butter is an excellent moisturizer that can be used on all skin types, especially those with dry skin. It's rich in essential fatty acids and vitamins that help to hydrate the skin and seal in moisture. It is incredibly moisturizing, helping to soften and smooth dry skin. Furthermore, shea butter also promotes elasticity as it helps to restore the skin barrier, helping you maintain a healthy complexion.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Another benefit of shea butter is the powerful anti-inflammatory properties, making it an ideal remedy to soothe, moisturize and protect the skin. Rich in fatty acids, shea butter can help reduce itching, dryness and redness, making it beneficial for treating skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis and other skin irritations. Additionally, it can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and stretch marks too. Therefore, these properties make shea butter a wonderful choice for those with sensitive or irritated skin.
Anti-Oxidant Properties
Shea butter is an antioxidant powerhouse. These free radical fighters protect against common signs of aging like wrinkles, dark spots, and other skin issues. Polyphenols, a type of antioxidant that can be found in green tea, give shea butter its photoprotective properties. These are known to combat UV radiation, harmful bacteria, oxidative stress, and harsh environmental conditions. As such, shea butter can be used as a natural skincare solution to maintain youthful looking skin while protecting it from further damage.
Takeaway
Shea butter has incredible benefits for your skin. From moisturizing to reducing inflammation, shea butter is a great way to naturally nourish your skin. And with its creamy texture is no wonder that Shea Butter has become an essential part of any comprehensive skincare regimen!