Shea Butter
Category: Emollient
Brief description: A rich, nourishing butter extracted from the nuts of the African shea tree; high in fatty acids and vitamins A, E, and F.
Benefits: Deeply moisturizes and nourishes the skin, supports skin barrier function, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Skin type suitability/concerns: Suitable for all skin types, particularly dry, sensitive, or mature skin.
Target audience: All age groups, those with dry or sensitive skin, and those concerned with maintaining healthy skin.
Chemical composition: Primarily composed of stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, and palmitic acid.
Physical aspect: Solid, off-white or ivory-colored butter with a mild, slightly nutty scent.
Compatibility: Mixes well with other oils, butters, and ingredients in cosmetic formulations.
Concentration: Typically used at 1-100% in formulations.
Side effects/adverse reactions: Generally well-tolerated; may cause an allergic reaction in rare cases.
Regulatory status: Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA; no major restrictions.
Sustainability/ethical considerations: Choose unrefined, organic, and fair-trade shea butter to support local communities and minimize environmental impact.
Brief description: A rich, nourishing butter extracted from the nuts of the African shea tree; high in fatty acids and vitamins A, E, and F.
Benefits: Deeply moisturizes and nourishes the skin, supports skin barrier function, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Skin type suitability/concerns: Suitable for all skin types, particularly dry, sensitive, or mature skin.
Target audience: All age groups, those with dry or sensitive skin, and those concerned with maintaining healthy skin.
Chemical composition: Primarily composed of stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, and palmitic acid.
Physical aspect: Solid, off-white or ivory-colored butter with a mild, slightly nutty scent.
Compatibility: Mixes well with other oils, butters, and ingredients in cosmetic formulations.
Concentration: Typically used at 1-100% in formulations.
Side effects/adverse reactions: Generally well-tolerated; may cause an allergic reaction in rare cases.
Regulatory status: Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA; no major restrictions.
Sustainability/ethical considerations: Choose unrefined, organic, and fair-trade shea butter to support local communities and minimize environmental impact.
