Shea butter benefits
Shea butter is fat extracted from the nuts of the Shea tree native to Africa. Used cosmetically for centuries; it is beneficial because it is great at softening skin. It is naturally rich with a high concentration of vitamins (A, E & F) and fatty acids. In this blog, we will discuss the benefits of Shea butter and why it is a must-have in your skincare routine.
Moisturising and nourishing:
It heals cracked and dry lips quickly. The extra nutrients and the lightweight texture does not feel sticky at all, hence it makes for an especially effective lip balm for cold winter months. When I was younger petroleum jelly was put on my lips everyday before leaving the house to keep them moisturised, but they still got cracked. Only as I got older and started doing research did I find that Shea butter was more beneficial and had a greater impact on my skin. Since it has a high fat content which makes it an excellent natural emollient and humectant, locking in moisture and keeping skin hydrated. Moreover, it ensures that the skin’s natural oils are preserved. This means healthier, smoother skin for longer.
Fatty acids:
Shea is composed of fatty acids which are long-chain molecules of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms. The most abundant fatty acids found in Shea butter are oleic acid, stearic acid, and palmitic acid. Other fatty acids present in smaller amounts include linoleic acid, arachidic acid, and behenic acid.
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Oleic acid is a monounsaturated fatty acid and makes up about 40-60%. It is known for its moisturising and anti-inflammatory properties.
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Stearic acid is a saturated fatty acid and comprises about 20-50%. It helps to thicken and stabilise the butter as well as being known for its emollient properties. It also removes dirt and excess sebum from the skin and hair.
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Palmitic acid is another saturated fatty acid and makes up about 3-15%. It is known for its cleansing and moisturising properties.
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Linoleic acid is a polyunsaturated fatty acid and is present in small amounts. It is important for maintaining healthy skin and has anti-inflammatory properties.
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Arachidic acid and behenic acid are both saturated fatty acids and are also present in small amounts. They help to provide a protective barrier on the skin and contribute to the butter's emollient properties.
Healing properties:
The anti-inflammatory properties of Shea butter can help soothe the irritation caused by skin issues, such as rashes, dermatitis and eczema. Research shows that it has anti-fungal properties. It can help fight fungus on the skin, predominantly ringworm and athlete’s foot. It can help to heal scars, bruises, and burns The anti-bacterial properties can help with acne or prevent its occurrence. The fatty composition of Shea butter allows it to sink in and balance out the skin’s natural oil, by reducing the overproduction of sebum that can often lead to hyperpigmentation, scars, stretch marks, dark patches and skin blemishes. Such blemishes can destroy the evenness of the skin tone.
Sun protection:
I have often heard it said that prevention is better than cure, so when it comes to protection against sun damage an effective natural sunscreen is beneficial. Shea butter contains a small amount of Sun Protection Factor (SPF) in the form of cinnamic acid, which means it can be used to protect the skin from harmful Ultra Violet (UV) rays, which can cause premature aging and skin damage. Additional protection from sun hats, clothing and dedicated sun creams are always worth considering. If skin has started peeling as a result of exposure to sun, Shea butter can then help minimise the unpleasant effects and soothe sunburn.
Premature aging:
Another of the many benefits of Shea butter is that it makes skin appear younger. It promotes collagen production which helps to keep skin plump, youthful and firm (stopping it from sagging). Research has shown that it can treat minor cuts, burns, and insect bites. It also eliminates fine lines and wrinkles and makes the skin look firm and hydrated; thus maintaining its elasticity.
In conclusion, Shea butter is an incredibly versatile natural product that has many benefits for the skin. It is a great moisturizer, soothes irritated skin, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, protects the skin from sun damage, promotes healing, and reduces skin discoloration. If you're looking for an all-natural, multi-purpose skincare.