A Rich History for a Rich Ingredient

Shea butter comes from a wild-growing tree in Africa that can be found across several different countries. It became a hot commodity around 4,000 years ago in Ancient Egypt, where it was a popular item to trade. As stated before, Queen Cleopatra kept containers of shea butter on hand which she used for both her skin and hair. It’s also believed that Queen Sheba, the biblical figure, used shea butter for similar reasons. 

The shea tree that this ingredient comes from was also seen as sacred, which is why it was used to make coffins for early African kings. People in Nigeria used shea butter mixed with palm oil to cook their food, which means shea butter can also be consumed.

According to University of Oregon Anthropologist Daphne Gallagher, there is a long history of people nurturing and cherishing shea trees. Gallagher published a paper in the Journal of Ethnobiology that stated this practice goes back nearly 1,000 years earlier than many researchers previously thought.

After Gallagher and her team examined layers of households built one on top of the other for around 1,500 years, the team claimed locals have been processing the nuts since 100 A.D.

Throughout the years, its popularity in trade didn’t cease and it found its way to all parts of the world where it is still a sought-after ingredient for skincare and cosmetic products.

How It’s Made

The processing of shea butter is much simpler than one might assume. It comes from the seed of the fruit a shea tree produces. Oily kernels from the seeds are removed, ground into a powder, then boiled in water. As it’s boiled, the butter rises to the top and solidifies giving us this rich product.

Nearly Endless Benefits

We can’t talk enough about the benefits that come with using shea butter. It's no wonder why it's such a popular product and ingredient. Here are just some of the ways it can help you get the glowing skin you're looking for:

• Is an effective moisturizer

• Has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and redness

• Filled with vitamins A, E, F plus fatty acids that give your skin that amazing deep moisturizing feel

• Forms a protective barrier on the skin

• Is seen as safe for most people

• Reduces itchiness

• Enhances collagen production in the skin

• Lasts up to 2 years when properly stored

Shea butter is also known for treating several skin conditions including:

• Eczema

• Psoriasis

• Dry skin

• Dermatitis

• Hives

• Acne

• Stretch marks

• Wrinkles

• Scars

• Cracked heels

• Rashes

• Burns

How It Interacts with the Skin

The moment you apply it to your skin, shea butter becomes an almost oil-like texture that your skin will instantly absorb. Since it is absorbed so fast, your skin will feel moisturized almost instantly.

It is important to note that not all shea butter is created equally and won’t necessarily give you this ideal interaction. You should always opt for pure, raw, unrefined shea butter so you can reap all the benefits of this ingredient.

Many cosmetic and skincare products may use shea butter, but more often than not it’s a processed version. This version is altered chemically and reduces the properties found in unrefined shea butter.

To know if shea butter is pure, raw, and unrefined, it will have a beige color and a nutty scent.

Will it Irritate Your Skin?

If you’re worried you may not be able to use this great product, fret not. Shea butter is generally seen as a very safe ingredient, but those with a tree nut allergy should be cautious. While it’s uncommon, there is a possibility of experiencing an allergic reaction.

Aside from the possibility of an adverse reaction for those with tree nut allergies, Healthline states that there is no current evidence of any topical shea butter allergies. If you want to test it out without committing to the product entirely, you can apply a small amount to a patch of skin and see if there’s a reaction.

Doctor’s Advice

The results are in. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel, an accredited group that evaluates the safety of skincare and cosmetic ingredients, has determined that shea butter is indeed safe to use.

That being said, if you are worried shea butter might not be for you, you can always ask your dermatologist, do an allergy test, or read the ingredients list of a product that uses shea butter to make sure another ingredient won’t cause you any problems.

The Takeaway

So, what do you get when you use shea butter? An all-natural product, packed with essential nutrients, plus near-endless benefits and uses. That’s why we and Cleopatra agree, it’s worth the hype.