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What Is Shea Butter… and its amazing Benefits?
Shea butter is an off-white fatty substance obtained from the nuts of the shea tree, which grows in West Africa. African shea butter benefits both skin and hair, because it is a superb natural moisturiser. In this post, we explain what shea butter is, what it does and which kind is best.

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Deep Moisturizing Rooibos Infused African Shea Body Butter 250ml
Rich African shea butter infused with rooibos, for very dry skin and hair.
Shea butter is packed with vitamins A, E and F. It helps combat dryness, moisturise a dry scalp and soften the look of wrinkles. In addition, many people use it to help fade the look of scars and stretch marks. Shea butter melts easily at body temperature, so the skin and scalp absorb it quickly. As a result, it does not leave a greasy layer on the surface.
African Shea Butter Benefits for Your Skin
- Moisturising: Shea butter is rich in natural vitamins and fatty acids. That is why it feels so nourishing on the skin. It is often used for dry skin and to help protect the skin’s natural oils.
- Soothing: Research suggests that shea butter has anti-inflammatory properties, thanks to compounds such as cinnamic acid. For example, one compound, lupeol cinnamate, has been studied for calming the skin. The American Academy of Dermatology also shares tips for relieving dry skin.
- Skin smoothing: Shea butter contains oleic, stearic, palmitic and linolenic acids. These help protect and nourish the skin to prevent dryness. Also, with long-term use, many people report softer, smoother skin.
Shea Butter for Hair and Scalp
Shea butter is not only for the skin. It also works well as a sealant for natural hair. For example, you can warm a small amount between your palms and smooth it over the ends of your hair. Then, massage a little into a dry scalp to help it feel comfortable. Because it locks in moisture, it is a favourite for coily and kinky hair.
What Does Shea Butter Feel and Smell Like?
Shea butter is a creamy beige butter. It is hard at room temperature, but it melts quickly in your hands. Unrefined shea butter has no added perfume. In fact, it has a nutty smell that can seem odd at first. However, the smell fades quickly once you apply the butter to your skin.
What Kind of Shea Butter is Best?
Black African Organics only stocks and uses raw, unrefined, Grade A shea butter. All our products contain the best grade of unrefined shea butter. Many butters claim to be organic, yet they add flavours and colours. Unfortunately, these extras reduce the quality.
Black African Organics delivers shea butter straight to your door in small packages and in bulk to suit your needs. Want to learn more? Read how shea butter transforms dry African hair and skin.
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