Shea Butter

A natural history

Shea butter comes from the nut of the African shea tree, which grows across the dry savanna belt south of the Sahara. For centuries it has been pressed and whipped by hand to protect skin and hair against a climate of relentless sun and wind, and because that work is traditionally done by women, shea has long been called women's gold.

It reached the wider world as a treasured emollient, the rich base of countless balms and creams.

What it does for your skin

Shea butter is a classic emollient that softens skin and helps it hold moisture. A review of plant oils notes that shea butter is rich in an unsaponifiable fraction of antioxidant and soothing compounds and helps support the skin barrier through an occlusive, moisture sealing effect.^[1] In a formula it gives a cushioning, deeply softening feel that helps dry skin look smooth and comfortable.

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