Shea Butter - Unrefined
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Unrefined shea butter, often referred to as raw or natural shea butter, is a fatty substance extracted from the nuts of the African shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa). It's a popular ingredient in skincare and haircare products due to its many potential benefits for the skin and hair.
Unrefined shea butter is produced through a traditional process that involves collecting the shea nuts, drying them in the sun, cracking them open, and then grinding and kneading the nuts to extract the fat. This fat is then boiled or melted and allowed to cool, resulting in shea butter in its raw form.
One of the key characteristics of unrefined shea butter is that it retains its natural colour, scent, and nutritional properties. It typically has a creamy, ivory or pale yellow colour and a nutty, earthy aroma. This type of shea butter is minimally processed, which means it maintains its natural vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, including vitamins A and E.
Traditionally, unrefined Shea butter has been used in the treatment of the following:
- Treatment of very dry skin
- Psoriasis and eczema
- Blemishes
- Skin discolouration
- Scars, stretch marks and wrinkles
It is also used as massage oil for babies and adults alike, and also a relaxer for stiff muscles due to it containing anti-inflammatory, emollient and humectant properties.
Melting Shea Butter: Shea butter has a high melting point, so it may be solid at room temperature. To incorporate it into formulations, melt it gently using a double boiler or a microwave at a low setting. Avoid overheating to preserve its beneficial properties.
Blending with Other Ingredients: Shea butter blends well with oils, waxes, and other butter-like substances. Ensure thorough mixing to create a homogeneous product. Consider using a hand mixer or blender for consistent texture.
Temperature Control: Maintain controlled temperatures during the formulation process. Rapid cooling after melting may cause shea butter to crystallise, resulting in a gritty texture. Slow cooling allows for a smoother consistency.
Preserving Antioxidant Properties: Shea butter contains antioxidants that can degrade over time when exposed to light and air. Store shea butter in airtight, opaque containers in a cool, dark place to preserve its beneficial properties.
Using Unrefined vs. Refined Shea Butter: Unrefined shea butter retains more of its natural colour, aroma, and nutrients. Refined shea butter has a neutral scent and colour. Choose the type based on the desired characteristics for your cosmetic product.
Incorporating Fragrances: Shea butter has a distinctive, nutty aroma. If you prefer to mask or enhance the scent, consider using essential oils or fragrance oils. However, be cautious with the amount to avoid overpowering the natural aroma.
Customising Consistency: Adjust the consistency of your cosmetic product by experimenting with the ratio of shea butter to other ingredients. For a softer product, increase the proportion of liquid oils, and for a firmer product, increase the proportion of shea butter.
CAS 91080-23-8
INCI Organic Butyrospermum parkii (shea) butter
Composition Organic Butyrospermum parkii (shea) butter
Appearance Off-white to grey-green solid fat, no or faint odor
Solubility Soluble in alcohol or oils, insoluble in water
Preservation Preservative-free
Storage Store in a closed container at a dry place at room temperature
Country of Origin West Africa
Raw Material Source Shea nuts of the African Karite tree
Manufacture Shea butter is made by cold-pressing shea nuts. It is then further refined using hexane and citric acid.
Animal Testing Not animal tested
GMO Certified GMO-free
Vegan Does not contain animal-derived components