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Shea butter has been used for centuries in Africa as a moisturizer, sunscreen, and skin healer, and is now becoming increasingly popular in Western skin care. We use it at Be Mavic as one of our favorite moisturizing ingredients in our products.

What is Shea Butter?

Also referred to as Karité Butter, Shea butter is a luxurious emollient originating from the nuts of the Karité tree, which is natively found in Africa's Sehel area stretching from East to West. Shea Butter is an ivory-colored fat extracted from the nut of the African Shea tree. It has been used for centuries by people around the world to protect the skin and hair from harsh weather conditions, as well as for medicinal purposes.

Grades of Shea Butter: Quality Matters

There are different grades of Shea Butter, and some of them are used in cosmetics and skincare products, and others are used in the food industry. Cosmetic grade Shea Butter is the one that is safe to use on the skin, as it's been refined and processed to remove impurities. When choosing a shea butter product, it's important to look for one that is 100% pure and natural, as some commercial products may contain additives or chemicals that can be harmful to the skin.

What are the Benefits of Shea Butter?

Moisturizer

One of the main benefits of shea butter is its high concentration of fatty acids and vitamins, which make it an excellent moisturizer and emollient (softener) for the skin. The fatty acids in shea butter, such as stearic acid, linoleic acid, and oleic acid, help to protect and nourish the skin, keeping it soft and supple. Vitamins A and E, which are also found in shea butter, have antioxidant properties that help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, and promote a youthful appearance.

Skin Soothing

Another benefit of shea butter is its ability to soothe and heal the skin. The anti-inflammatory properties of shea butter can help to reduce redness and irritation, making it ideal for people with sensitive skin or skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. Shea butter can also be used to help heal minor cuts and burns, as it helps to promote cell regeneration and can act as a natural barrier to protect the skin from further damage.

Shea butter can be beneficial for skin that is prone to breakouts, as it has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce redness and irritation. Additionally, its moisturizing properties can help to balance the skin's natural oils, which can help to prevent clogged pores and breakouts caused by dry skin.

However, it's important to note that while shea butter can be beneficial for some people with acne-prone skin, it may not be the best option for everyone. Some people may find that shea butter is too heavy or oily for their skin, which can actually exacerbate breakouts. It's always best to patch test before applying to the entire face.

Skin Barrier Protection

Shea Butter also helps protect against harmful UV rays, making it a great choice for sun protection. Shea butter also has a sunscreen property that helps to protect the skin from UV rays. It has an SPF of about 6, which is not as high as chemical sunscreen, but it's always safe to use, since it does not contain any chemical that can harm the skin. Additionally, Shea Butter can be used as a barrier against environmental damage.

Shea Butter Products

In addition to being used as a standalone product, shea butter is also commonly found in a variety of other skin care products, such as lotions, creams, and soaps. When used in conjunction with other natural ingredients, such as essential oils or aloe vera, shea butter can provide even more benefits for the skin.

In conclusion, shea butter is a natural and versatile ingredient that can provide a wide range of benefits for the skin. Its moisturizing, healing, and protective properties make it an excellent addition to any skin care routine, and it can be used alone or in conjunction with other natural ingredients to provide even more benefits for the skin. Overall, with its many benefits, shea butter can be used as part of an effective everyday beauty routine or as a remedy for specific skin issues.