Shea Butter: the beauty ingredient everyone is talking about
Shea butter is such an ingredient that everyone knows, or recognizes from the packaging on beauty products like skincare and hair products. But nowadays you also see it in the supermarket on a tub of butter, for example. But do you actually know what it really is? During lunch, the word suddenly came up because it was prominently displayed on the packaging and everyone looked at each other questioningly. Time to dive in, because shea butter is a real beauty wonder. This natural ingredient from the nuts of the African shea tree is not called ‘the tree of life’ for nothing. And once you know what it can do for your skin (and makeup), you won't want to be without it.
First things first: what is shea butter?
Shea butter comes from the nuts of the African shea tree. It is packed with vitamins A (important for the immune system and vision) and E (protects your cells), antioxidants, and essential fatty acids (these are fatty acids that the body needs but cannot produce itself), making it a kind of superfood for your skin. And that is exactly what makes us very happy. Sometimes there is a slightly more complicated name on the ingredient list on the back of your packaging: Butyrospermum parkii butter, named after the Latin name of the tree, but it is essentially the same. Now you know that too.
Shea butter hydrates your skin like a pro
It is no surprise that many beauty brands use shea butter in their products, because this is exactly the kind of ingredient that does exactly what we want. It retains moisture in the skin. And no, you can't apply moisture, it evaporates day and night, but a layer of shea butter ensures that what you have cannot go anywhere. This keeps your skin hydrated and elastic and prevents that dry, tight feeling. So if you suffer from dry and flaky skin: shea is what you want.
Sensitive skin? Shea butter to the rescue
Shea butter also works for sensitive or irritated skin. Thanks to its soothing properties it alleviates redness and helps with minor inflammations. You often find it in soothing toners, rich moisturizers, and even baby products for eczema or diaper rash—yes, really. Apply generously, your skin will love it.
Shea butter offers natural UV protection
You probably already know this, but just to be clear: shea butter does not replace your daily SPF, but it does provide natural protection against UV radiation thanks to the antioxidants. Think of it as an extra layer under your sun protection, with the added benefit that it also hydrates and soothes.
Shea butter is also in your makeup
Not only in skincare and hair products, but you also find shea butter in makeup. Its creamy texture allows for smooth application of lipstick and ensures that foundation stays evenly in place. So no plaster effect, just that healthy, natural glow. It also helps protect the skin under makeup and prevents it from feeling tight or dry at the end of the day.
Here's how to use shea butter in your routine
The great thing about shea butter is that it is super versatile. You can apply it as a night cream, use it as lip balm, as shampoo, conditioners, and masks, or even mix it with coconut oil to make homemade body butter or apply it to your dry cuticles and feet. Shea butter is part of cleansers, toners, masks, body lotions, and hair care. You can use it from head to toe, literally. What’s also nice: if you’re lying on the beach and your eyebrows are all over the place? Use it as ‘gel’ and your hairs will stay nicely styled. Because your eyebrows are very important in your face; once they are well-groomed, you immediately look a lot better.
Source: dr. Jetske Ultee | Image: @clairemjpark
