6 Benefits Of Using Shea Butter For Skin And Hair

Shea butter is an ivory or cream color fat derived from the nut of the African Shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa). Shea butter is an edible fat rich in vitamins A, D, E, and F and its numerous benefits date back to ancient times. In fact, the healing properties of shea butter are so powerful that in the Wolof language of Senegal, the Shea tree is called the karite tree, meaning “The Tree of Life.”

Shea butter has taken off in a big way in recent years due to its remarkable moisturizing and healing properties. This also makes it a favorite with the cosmetics industry. Shea butter is proven to have antioxidant properties due to its tocopherol content. It has anti-inflammatory properties as well thanks to the triterpene alcohols in it.

# Moisturizes Dry Skin

Shea butter is a highly effective moisturizer for all-over body care. Its biochemical properties mimic the characteristics found in the moisturizers released by our very own sebaceous glands. And, since it’s a naturally occurring lipid, it has natural emollient properties. That’s why shea butter is such a staple today in body lotions, body butters, lip balms, hand lotions, soaps, ointments, face creams, and eye creams.

Organic shea butter, 100 percent pure, is readily available today and you can slather it on anywhere on your body (after a shower works best) that needs extra moisturizing. It also works wonders for generally dry skin that is prone to flaking or roughness. In fact, The American Academy of Dermatology recommends shea butter for treating dry skin.

# Prevents Stretch Marks

Due to its vitamin E content, shea butter is excellent for preventing and/or diminishing pregnancy-related stretch marks. Applying shea butter all over your belly and hips liberally throughout your pregnancy (not just once you start showing) and post-delivery will keep your skin supple and increase its elasticity, thereby minimizing the appearance of stretch marks. It has been traditionally used for centuries by African women.

# Treats Acne And Blemishes, And Reduces Scars

Shea butter is good at preventing as well as treating acne, including adult acne. It also helps lighten and reduce the appearance of redness and scarring associated with acne. If you use acne-related skincare products, chances are they contain retinol (vitamin A). Well, shea butter is naturally rich in vitamin A, so if it bothers you to use harsh chemicals for getting rid of your acne, shea butter offers a natural alternative with the same retinol-rich properties.

# Promotes Healthy Hair Growth

Incorporating shea butter into your regular hair care routine will leave you with soft, shiny, and thick locks thanks to its moisturizing quality.

How to: Try mixing a little coconut oil with shea butter and apply liberally to your hair, focusing on your scalp and ends. Wrap your hair with a damp, warm towel for 15–30 minutes and wash with a mild shampoo.

# Repairs Damaged Hair

Shea butter also works like a much-needed repair and rescue tonic for parched and damaged hair that’s been over-processed by hair color, salon treatments, and heat damage. Due to its fatty acid content, shea butter helps rejuvenate and replenish damaged hair to give you lustrous new locks.

How to: Make a quick mask by scooping a little shea butter into a small bowl, add pureed avocado, a little water, and a few drops of your favorite essential oil (lavender, peppermint etc.) to create a creamy paste. Apply all over your hair, leave on for 30 minutes to an hour, and wash thoroughly with warm water before using a shampoo.

# Prevents Hair Loss

Shea butter can help promote hair growth and even prevent hair breakage and loss because it contains plant-derived phytonutrients. These nutrients protect your hair from harmful UV rays, harmful pollutants in the air, and even chlorine in swimming pools. Using shea butter masks regularly on your hair, in conjunction with other good-for-hair ingredients like coconut oil, castor oil, egg yolk, and honey will strengthen your hair and reduce breakage/loss.