CAS number  194043-92-0

INCI Name     Butyrospermum parkii

Shea butter is widely used in skincare, haircare, and cosmetics due to its deeply moisturizing and nourishing properties. Packed with vitamins A, E, and F, shea butter helps to soothe dry skin, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.

Purpose

Shea butter is primarily used as a natural moisturizer and skin protector. It deeply hydrates and nourishes the skin, helping to restore moisture and improve elasticity. Its rich composition of fatty acids and vitamins makes it effective for soothing dry, irritated, or sensitive skin.

Origin

Shea butter comes from the nuts of the shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa), which is native to the savannah regions of West and Central Africa. The tree grows in countries like Ghana, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, and Mali, where it thrives in dry climates.

Feature	Description
Name	Shea butter
Type	Emollient, moisturizer, skin protectant
Source	Derived from the nuts of the shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa), native to Africa
PH	Neutral (approximately 6–7)
Solubility	Insoluble in water, soluble in oils and organic solvents
Color	Off-white to ivory or pale yellow
Odor	Mild, nutty scent
Concentration	2–100%
Boiling point	>300°C
Physical state

High Unsaponifiable Content

Shea butter contains a significant amount of unsaponifiables (bioactive compounds), which give it powerful healing, anti-inflammatory, and skin-repairing properties. Unlike other plant oils that are mostly composed of fatty acids, shea butter retains a substantial portion of these beneficial compounds, making it an exceptional ingredient for skin nourishment.

Rich in Natural Vitamins

Loaded with vitamins A, E, and F, shea butter supports skin health by promoting cell regeneration, protecting against environmental damage, and enhancing elasticity. Vitamin A stimulates collagen production, while vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, preventing premature aging.

Exceptional Moisturizing Power

With its high concentration of oleic, stearic, and linoleic acids, shea butter deeply hydrates the skin and locks in moisture. It creates a protective barrier without leaving a greasy residue, making it ideal for dry and dehydrated skin.

Natural UV Protection

While not a substitute for sunscreen, shea butter provides mild UV protection with an estimated SPF of 3-4. This natural shield helps reduce the impact of sun exposure and supports the skin’s defense against UV damage.

Non-Comedogenic

Despite its rich texture, shea butter has a low comedogenic rating, meaning it won’t clog pores. This makes it suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone and oily skin.

Wound Healing & Skin Repair

The anti-inflammatory and cell-regenerating properties of shea butter help accelerate wound healing. It reduces the appearance of scars, stretch marks, and minor burns, making it a staple ingredient in restorative skincare formulations.

Anti-Inflammatory & Soothing

Shea butter contains compounds like cinnamic acid, which reduce redness, irritation, and inflammation. It is particularly beneficial for individuals with eczema, psoriasis, and sensitive skin conditions.

Temperature Adaptive Texture

At room temperature, shea butter remains solid but melts instantly upon skin contact. This unique characteristic allows for smooth application and quick absorption without an oily feel.

Sustainable & Renewable

Harvested from the nuts of the shea tree, shea butter is a sustainable and eco-friendly resource. Its production supports communities in Africa, where traditional methods are used to extract the butter without harming the environment.

Chemical-Free & Naturally Preservative-Rich

Shea butter is naturally resistant to rancidity due to its high antioxidant content. Unlike many skincare ingredients that require synthetic preservatives, shea butter maintains its freshness and potency without additives, making it a pure and safe choice for cosmetic use.

Applications of Shea Butter in Haircare and Skincare

Haircare Applications

Deep Conditioning Treatment
Shea butter is used in hair masks and conditioners to provide intense hydration, repair damaged strands, and enhance shine. It penetrates the hair shaft, strengthening and softening dry, brittle hair.

Scalp Treatment
Its anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties help soothe dry, flaky, and irritated scalps, making it beneficial for dandruff and scalp psoriasis.

Heat & UV Protection
Acts as a natural heat protectant by forming a lightweight barrier that shields hair from heat styling tools and sun exposure.

Frizz Control & Hair Sealant
Seals in moisture and smooths hair cuticles, reducing frizz and preventing split ends, especially for curly and coily hair types.

Hair Growth Stimulant
Rich in vitamins and fatty acids that nourish hair follicles, promoting healthy growth and reducing hair breakage.

Leave-In Moisturizer
Used in natural hair care routines to keep hair hydrated and manageable without feeling greasy.

Skincare Applications

Intensive Moisturizer
Hydrates and softens dry, rough skin, making it a key ingredient in body lotions, creams, and balms.

Anti-Aging & Skin Firming
Rich in antioxidants like vitamins A and E, which reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and improve skin elasticity.

Soothing Treatment for Sensitive Skin
Calms irritation, redness, and itching, making it effective for conditions like eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis.

Lip Balm & Chapped Skin Repair
Forms a protective barrier on lips and cracked skin, preventing moisture loss and healing damaged areas.

Wound Healing & Scar Reduction
Promotes cell regeneration, helping to fade scars, stretch marks, and minor wounds.

Sunburn Relief
Soothes sunburned skin by reducing inflammation and speeding up the healing process.

Makeup Base & Natural Primer
Used as a natural primer to create a smooth base for makeup while keeping the skin nourished.

Cuticle & Nail Care
Softens cuticles, strengthens nails, and prevents breakage by deeply hydrating the surrounding skin.