We’ll come out and say it: raw shea butter is one of the best moisturizers on the planet. And that’s not just our ego talking! Maybe we’re biased, but does it really count as bias when it’s backed by science and real life, tangible results? Here’s the thing: there are a lot of fantastic lipid based plant moisturizers out there. Oils like coconut and Jojoba, butters like cocoa and even certain hydrating essential oils like rose. If you use any of these on your skin, you’re doing the right thing, and no doubt you can see the results. But shea butter is unique when it comes to plant based moisturizers. Here’s why:
Shea butter does more than just moisturize the skin. It protects it. And by protect we don’t mean via antioxidants- although it does that too. We’re talking about the very thin and light layer it leaves on the skin that protects it from harsh environmental elements like whipping winds and biting cold. While other moisturizers deliver necessary fatty acids to the skin cells, shea butter does that and protects the skin from further environmental factors that would damage and dry out the skin.
Shea butter is also rich in the ultra hydrating essential fatty acid known as Oleic Acid. This fatty acid is not only extremely hydrating to the skin, it also helps the skin to hold onto moisture instead of losing it- a critical component for delaying the onset of premature aging and issues like leathery skin and sagging. Shea butter also contains Stearic acid, an EFA that helps to support the skin’s natural protective barrier by protecting and helping to build it. This is important because if your skin’s protective barrier, known as the acid mantle, isn’t functioning correctly, the quality of your skin will suffer. This might look like anything from acne to extra dryness, but with shea butter, those things are in the past.
As you can see, shea butter is a fantastic moisturizer. Not only does it moisturize and lubricate, it also protects, holds in moisture and keeps the skin’s natural immune system healthy and intact. A little goes a long way, it’s completely natural, and best of all, it works.