We can’t help it: We all want healthier, younger-looking skin! One popular skincare ingredient that claims to help you look more youthful is shea butter. Here, we dive into what shea butter is and its potential benefits.
What Is Shea Butter?
Shea butter is manufactured from the nuts of karité (shea) trees, which are native to West Africa. Shea butter is often called “women’s gold,” not only for its golden hue but because it has generated many jobs for women across the continent.
Treating Your Skin With Shea Butter
Shea nuts are rich in oil and have been used in cosmetic ingredients for centuries thanks to their high concentration of vitamins and fatty acids.
If you have dry skin, you know how flakey and irritated it can get. To help soothe your skin, the American Academy of Dermatology Association advises using shea butter ointment or creams your skin over lotions, which could irritate the skin further.
She butter is also rich in antioxidants, which may help reduce the appearance of aging and wrinkles. It is also used as an analgesic, and studies have shown it has anti-inflammatory effects. Shea butter may also help soften the appearance of scars.
Shea Butter Must-Haves
If you already love shea butter, keep using it, and if you aren’t, try some of these well-reviewed shea butter products:
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream Intense Hydration ($36, shop here)
Youth to the People Adaptogen Deep Moisture Cream ($58, shop here)
Honest Deep Hydration Face Cream ($27.99, shop here)
Cocokind Skin Butter ($15, shop here)
Do you use shea butter? Tell us what products you’ve tried and if you recommend them!