Cosmetic shea butter how to use. From ancient times to the present: shea butter properties and use in everyday life

Vitellaria amazing, which is otherwise called shea, shea, tallow, grows in Africa. Its fruits are oval in shape, reach 4 cm. Inside, under the skin and a layer of nutritious pulp, there is a large seed. It also serves as a raw material for the production of oil. The seeds are harvested during the rainy season. Local residents get oil by rendering. In European countries that import seeds, it is extracted mechanically - by pressing.

Shea butter is based on fats. Since oleic and stearic fatty acids predominate in the composition, the product has a thick consistency and belongs to the group of butters. At temperatures below 32°C, shea is similar to butter ghee, but melts on contact with the skin and is easily absorbed. It can be stored outside the refrigerator, but always in a shady place. At low temperatures, the oil may become grainy, which, however, does not affect its quality.

The color of fat depends on the shade of the feedstock and can be white, milky, light beige, pale yellow. On sale there is both refined and unrefined oil. The first is used in cooking. In cosmetology, crude oil is used, since it has a richer composition and a brighter smell. Shea has a “warm”, nutty flavor that is uplifting and makes you feel better.

Unique and medicinal properties of shea

Shea is very much in demand in the cosmetics industry. It suits all types of skin and hair. Especially useful for rough, dull, dry skin. The oil absorbs quickly and does not leave a greasy feeling. Shea perfectly interacts with other vegetable and essential oils, phytoextracts. At the same time, the oil is allergenic. It can not be used by people with individual intolerance to latex.

Useful cosmetic properties of shea butter:

  • Protects the skin from the negative effects of the sun's rays.
  • Saturates the skin with vitamins, improves complexion.
  • Neutralizes the action of free radicals (oxidants).
  • It has anti-inflammatory and anti-edema effect.
  • Increases the elasticity and tone of the skin.
  • Prevents photo- and early chronoaging.
  • Gives hair shine, makes them smooth and elastic.
  • Smoothes superficial wrinkles.
  • Softens rough areas.
  • Helps retain moisture in the skin.
  • Stimulates regeneration, eliminates redness on the skin.

With the help of shea butter, they accelerate the healing process of wounds, cracks, burns. It is used externally to relieve joint pain. Oil lubricates corns, calluses, roughened elbows, weathered areas of the face. With proper storage, shea butter retains its beneficial properties for two years.

Application in cosmetology shea

Most often, shea is found in shower gels, shampoos, hair balms. The oil can be found in hygienic lipsticks, liquid or solid soaps, sunscreens and regenerating creams, softening products for elbows and knees. It is added to moisturizing and regenerating body care products, to cosmetics to prevent stretch marks in pregnant women.

For facial skin. Shea, like all vegetable oils, helps to restore the lipid mantle of the skin - a barrier that prevents dehydration. That is why it is appropriate to use it for excessive dryness and sensitivity of the skin, in the area of ​​​​the eyes and lips. Being light, the fat does not clog pores, and therefore is suitable for oily, combination, problem skin. Shea butter is indicated for acne, redness, psoriasis, allergic dermatosis. In order to protect against frost, wind, sun, the product is applied to the skin half an hour before going outside.

For body skin. Shea butter is an ideal oil for both tonic and soothing massage. It quickly melts under the influence of heat, absorbed without residue. In combination with essential oils of orange, lavender, neroli, the oil fights stretch marks and cellulite. Applying shea before sunbathing allows you to get an even tan, prevents dehydration and redness of the skin. The oil can be used as an after-sun treatment as it soothes the skin. It is widely used in soap making.

For hair. Shea is present in conditioners, masks, waxes for curls. It softens and smoothes the hair, gives it a healthy glow, facilitates combing and styling. The course of oil therapy procedures allows you to restore weak, brittle, thinned, dry hair. Treatment with shea-based products is recommended for excessive hair thinning, dry dandruff, after dyeing, perm. Oil can be used to care for eyelashes, eyebrows.

For nails. Shea butter is used for cuticle care. The tool softens and nourishes the skin, prevents the appearance of burrs. Vitamins A and E, contained in shea butter in large quantities, contribute to the growth of healthy and strong nails. Shea butter baths restore youthfulness to the skin of the hands. To enhance the effect of applications and rubbing, shea can be supplemented with other, more liquid, oils: grape, apricot, almond.

So, shea butter is one of the most popular in cosmetology. The popularity of the product contributes to the rich composition, high penetrating properties, aroma. The oil is stored for a long time without loss of quality both in the refrigerator and without it, but it quickly oxidizes in the light. It is used to care for the scalp, face, body, to improve the condition of nails, hair, eyebrows, eyelashes. Shea butter is added to cosmetics, massage compositions, and regenerating ointments.

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Shea butter is the most effective natural cosmetic product with exceptional properties. With it, you can eliminate almost all problems of the skin, hair and nails. The greatest effect is manifested in the correction of age-related changes. at home without special efforts you can get rid of wrinkles, tighten the oval of the face, restore a healthy look to the hair.

The substance is obtained from the seeds of the fruit of a tree also called Vitellaria or Karite. It is a natural product with a dense texture that looks and feels like melted butter. Color can vary from white to light yellow or beige.

Shea butter contains a unique combination of complex compounds. The composition includes monobasic acids - linolenic, palmitic, linoleic and stearic, as well as fatty oleic. Approximately a tenth of the substance is represented by terpene alcohols and unsaponifiable substances - steroids, tocopherols, phenols. The action is enhanced by the presence of hyaluronic acid and vitamins K, F, A, E, C and PP.


The oil contains important vitamins

This combination of natural components determines the unique properties of shea butter.

Beneficial features

Shea, when applied to the skin, causes a number of changes in the tissues, leading to an improvement in the structure and appearance of the dermis. The most prominent processes include:

  • improvement of intracellular metabolism. Shea butter has the property of accelerating blood flow at the site of application. This leads to skin rejuvenation and an increase in the formation of collagen and elastin, which increases tissue elasticity;
  • strengthening of regeneration mechanisms, so damage heals very quickly;
  • elimination of inflammatory phenomena;
  • intense skin hydration. When using oil, increased dryness of the skin is eliminated, peeling phenomena disappear;
  • neutralization and removal of toxins and free radicals, leading to a deterioration in the condition of the skin;
  • bactericidal action;
  • removal of age spots;
  • strengthening hair follicles and improving the overall condition of the hair.

Fights microbes, age spots, moisturizes.

Shea can be eaten in small quantities, adding to various dishes. Regular use will restore the strength of cell membranes, increase the tone of the body, as well as normalize hormonal levels.

How to choose and store

Shea butter can be produced in five different types, differing in the degree of purification and, therefore, quality. Each group has its own distinctive features:

  • A is a natural unrefined product of the highest quality. For its manufacture, manual extraction is used. It is used not only in cosmetic products, but also in pharmacy for the manufacture of external preparations used in dermatology. This is a dense substance of light yellow color, which has a slight nutty smell;
  • B - substance that has undergone refining. A cleaner substance, but due to the lack of smell, it is difficult to distinguish from a fake;
  • C - purified product of white color, odorless;
  • D - practically unpurified substance, often causing, due to the presence of a large amount of impurities, allergic reactions;
  • E - a gray substance, almost devoid of all harmful components and consisting mainly of various impurities. This product has no value.

When buying, you must first of all pay attention to the packaging, which should indicate not only the manufacturer, but also the supplier of raw materials. The product is imported mainly from the countries of the African continent. Information about the expiration date when sealed and opened packaging is also required.


Shea butter has different categories

It is necessary to pay attention to the color and, if possible, the smell of the substance. A gray tint indicates a low quality raw material, and the absence of a nutty smell of an unrefined product indicates that it is a fake.

The product in its original sealed packaging can be stored for three years. Once opened, shea butter should be used within three months. The optimum temperature for preserving all the properties of the substance is 16 o -24 o C. If the oil is kept in a colder room, the product will acquire a granular, traumatic skin texture. Higher temperatures or direct sunlight will cause the fats to melt and become rancid, rendering the product unusable.

The use of shea butter in medicine

The properties of the natural components of shea butter are useful in the manufacture of drugs for the treatment of dermatological diseases. Natural substances not only act as a basis, but also have the following effect:

  • eliminate swelling;
  • reduce inflammation in tissues;
  • destroy pathogenic microflora;
  • enhance the healing process.

Shea butter is justifiably used in medicine

Also, the tool gives a good effect in the treatment of respiratory diseases of various etiologies and in adenovirus infections.

Wound healing ointment

Shea butter will help accelerate the regeneration of soft tissues in case of mechanical damage. Homemade mixture will help in cases of:

  • shallow cuts;
  • cracks in the skin of the body, heels or lips;
  • shallow ulcers;
  • wounds.

For treatment, it is necessary to mix shea butter and sea buckthorn butter melted in a water bath in equal parts. Apply to damaged skin 2-3 times a day.

For dermatitis and psoriasis

  • chamomile;
  • patchouli;
  • roses;
  • lavender;
  • tea tree.

To treat psoriasis or dermatitis, the affected areas of the skin should be applied twice a day at regular intervals. The course of treatment lasts no more than 10 days.

Before using the substance of shea it is necessary to consult with your doctor. It must be borne in mind that it is not advisable to use shea butter for the treatment of atopic and allergic dermatitis.

For joint pain

If you are concerned about joint pain, compresses will help. This home treatment method consists in applying oil warmed in the palms of your hands to the joint with light massaging movements. After that, the place of pain should be wrapped warmly and lie down quietly for at least two hours. If the procedure is carried out in the evening before going to bed, then such a warming compress can be kept all night.


Effective for joint pain

From hemorrhoids

In order for the swollen venous nodes to resolve as soon as possible and the cracks in the anus to heal, the therapy prescribed by the attending physician can be supplemented by applying shea butter to the bumps and cracks.

In this case, the beneficial effect will be as follows:
  • softening of tissues affected by pathology;
  • improvement of blood microcirculation;
  • removal of puffiness;
  • increased tone of the venous wall;
  • fast regeneration of damage;
  • accelerated healing of cracks.

Before use, the product must be melted in a water bath and a cotton swab should be used to apply to hemorrhoidal bumps.

Application in cosmetology

Thanks to their unique properties Shea butter has found wide application in cosmetology. The product can be used in its pure form or mixed with various components. This substance, better than other means, will help smooth wrinkles and tighten the oval of the face, eliminate the sensation of dryness and tightness of the skin, narrow pores and remove acne, restore strength and healthy shine to hair. When using shea butter as a cosmetic product, the skin becomes much younger and fresher in a short period of time.


Oil helps in rejuvenation

You can apply the drug to the skin almost anywhere, including the hardened soles of the feet, the outer surfaces of the joints.

Recipes for the face

Using shea butter for the face, you can quickly get rid of fine wrinkles, tighten the sagging face oval, restore freshness and radiance to tired or aged skin.

Before using the product, it is necessary to first cleanse the face of epithelial cells, dust and fat and sweat secreted by the skin glands.

In order to eliminate wrinkles and restore skin condition, you can use the following recipes:
  • take shea butter, jojoba and flower water melted in a water bath or with a hair dryer in a ratio of 3:2:1. The mixture is applied at night;
  • mix two teaspoons of melted shea butter and olive oil. Mix well and add 2 drops each of lavender and chamomile essential oils. Cream prepared in this way can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

You can also apply pure shea butter on your face. To do this, you need to warm it in your hands and lubricate the skin with gentle, light movements, moving in the direction from the midline of the face to the temples.

Hair Recipes

Using shea butter for hair, you can get rid of their dryness, loss and brittleness. Also, the structure of the rod, damaged by the influence of dyes, flats or sunlight, is restored. Regular hair treatments with shea butter will get rid of dandruff and split ends.

It is recommended to use the following recipes:
  • Add a teaspoon of jojoba oil to two tablespoons of melted shea butter. Half an hour before shampooing, apply the mask to slightly damp hair and wrap with a towel;
  • for enhanced restoration of damaged hair, you need to take two tablespoons of flaxseed oil and melted shea butter and add one tablespoon of burdock oil and tocopherol acetate (vitamin E). Keep for 3-4 hours, then wash your hair in the usual way.

Nourishes the hair and its roots

In the cold season, a mask with shea butter will protect the hair from the negative effects of low temperatures, and in the summer - from overdrying and ultraviolet radiation.

Recipes for hands

The skin of the hands experiences increased stress when using household chemicals and under the influence of adverse natural factors. Shea butter will help soften and moisturize rough skin and return the brushes to a well-groomed appearance.

Shea will help and protect your hands. To do this, before doing dirty work or going outside, you need to soften a small piece of the product in your hands and gently rub it into the skin for 2-3 minutes.

will also useful recipe containing taken in equal parts of oil:
  • calendula;
  • olives.

The composition should be gently rubbed into the skin of the hands.

For nail and cuticle care

Cosmetic care is also needed for the nail plate and the cuticle surrounding it. This will protect against the formation of burrs, cracks, prevent the development of panaritium or other diseases caused by pathogenic microflora, and also restore the normal structure and healthy shine to the nails.

To prepare the composition, you need to take oils:
  • shi - 2 parts;
  • cocoa - 2 parts;
  • beeswax - 2 parts.

Especially useful when used with other ingredients

The components should be melted, mixed and, while continuing to stir, add 10 drops of tea tree oil and sesame oil. Lubricate the nails and the adjacent cuticle with the mixture.

Recipes for lips, eyelids and eyelashes

Also in cosmetology, shea is used to tidy up the skin of the eyelids, lips and care for eyelashes. Experts recommend using the following recipes:

  • a special balm will help keep the skin of the lips soft and supple. It is necessary to prepare a mixture of shea and jojoba oils, taken in a ratio of 3: 2 and add a few drops essential oil roses. The mixture can be stored in the refrigerator;
  • for delicate skin of the eyelids and around the eyes, mix 2 parts shea butter and 1 part aloe juice. The composition is applied with very gentle gentle movements;
  • You can make eyelashes thicker if you lubricate them at night with a mixture of shea butter and grape seed with the addition of a few drops of vitamin A.

Eyelash mixture can also be used for eyebrow care. You can also apply shea butter on the eyebrows in its pure form.

For thighs and legs

To do this, two tablespoons of melted shea butter should take 15 drops of lavender, myrocarpus, rosemary and mint oils. Add a teaspoon of chestnut extract. The whole mixture must be beaten with a mixer.

The following recipe will help restore rough and cracked heels and feet to softness:
  • melt wax and shea butter, coconut and cocoa butter, taken in a ratio of 1: 7: 4: 2;
  • add 1 part each of jojoba and avocado oils;
  • with constant stirring, add 10 drops of essential oils of mint, tea tree and lavender.

Beat the mixture with a blender and refrigerate for a day. This composition will also reduce sweating of the feet, will have a disinfectant and tonic effect.


Makes heels soft

Shea butter for massage

The property of shea to normalize blood circulation in the vessels and increase the outflow of lymph is used for anti-cellulite and restorative massage. The substance will also help with stretch marks, small scars and the effects of burns.

The body before the procedure must be cleaned using scrubs and washed with warm water.

For massage, you can use shea both in its pure form, preheating it in your hand or with a hairdryer, and with the addition of various essential oils. Additives are selected depending on the problem to be solved. It is recommended to use the following esters:

  • to fight cellulite, you need to take an orange, grapefruit, bergamot, patchouli;
  • tea tree, lavender, rose will help eliminate scars;
  • basil, cloves, lemon have a general strengthening effect.

Massage is performed with both hands at a slow pace using stroking and rubbing techniques. The direction of movement is towards the inguinal and axillary lymph nodes. On the abdomen, massage should be done clockwise.

Contraindications and possible harm

There is practically no harm when using shea butter. Pathological manifestations on the part of the body are possible only when the substance is taken in food in large quantities.

When shea butter is applied to contaminated skin, blockage of the sebaceous glands is possible, which will lead to the appearance of acne.


A contraindication for the use of the product is only individual intolerance to the components. Also, undesirable effects can be caused by the use of an expired or spoiled product due to improper storage.

In general, shea butter is so harmless to the body that it can be safely used even during pregnancy.

Women's gold, shea butter or shea butter is a valuable product with therapeutic, preventive and cosmetic effects. A large area of ​​​​application and a truly effective result make shea butter an indispensable ingredient in many cosmetic products. But the most interesting thing is that you can use it on your own, as well as make do-it-yourself cosmetics for the face, body and hair based on it. If you have problematic, dry and dehydrated skin, irritations, you need protection from the sun or cold, or you decide to use all your strength to fight wrinkles, shea butter will help you with this!

What is shea butter

The inhabitants of Africa use it as butter, adding it to food, for medicinal purposes, protect the face from dryness and the scorching sun. The Karite tree, from the fruits of which shea butter is obtained, grows in Sudan, Senegal, Mali and New Guinea. Its first fruits are obtained only at the age of 50 years. The seeds, rich in fats, become the source of shea butter, which has become famous in the beauty industry for its properties. Skin rejuvenation and hydration, hair restoration - these are just a small part of its benefits.

The oil itself has a solid texture with a slight nutty flavor, but if the temperature rises to 35 C, it begins to melt.

Useful properties of shea butter

  • intensively nourishes, moisturizes, heals the skin;
  • protects the skin from adverse environmental factors;
  • eliminates peeling and irritation of the skin;
  • improves complexion;
  • improves skin tone and elasticity;
  • smoothes fine wrinkles;
  • reduces scars and scars;
  • relieves inflammation and swelling;
  • has an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effect, has a high bactericidal effect;
  • relieves muscle pain during sprains and after heavy physical exertion;
  • is part of therapeutic ointments and gels used for dermatitis and psoriasis;
  • moisturizes and soothes the skin after a sunburn, heals burns;
  • eliminates stretch marks;
  • protects against SPF rays;
  • fights acne;
  • gives a matte finish to the skin.

Shea butter, rich in vitamins E, F and A, saturates the skin, absorbs quickly, leaves no greasy residue and keeps the effect of moisture up to 8 hours.

Shea butter contraindications

Shea butter has practically no contraindications. It is allowed for pregnant, lactating women, suitable for all ages and all skin types. Do not use it only for people with allergies to nuts and latex. Use with caution on oily skin, as the oil can clog pores with prolonged use.

Shea butter in cosmetology

Shea butter is used in cosmetology for skin and hair care. Softening, moisturizing, protective and regenerating properties have a beneficial effect. For maximum effect, follow these simple instructions:

  • if you are making homemade masks with shea butter, then before adding it you need to melt it in a water bath, with direct application this procedure is not required;
  • night cream with shea butter must be applied 2 hours before bedtime, otherwise swelling cannot be avoided;
  • products with shea butter should be washed off with warm water or soaked with a napkin after 30 minutes.

Shea butter for face

Shea butter can stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, which means the restoration and rejuvenation of facial skin. To achieve this effect, you need to apply shea butter 2 times a week.

Shea butter allows you to get rid of fine wrinkles, prevents skin aging, protects from wind, cold and sunlight.

The bactericidal effect helps in the fight against acne and irritation, shea butter is effective for acne prevention.

It is worth knowing that shea butter makes the color of cosmetics brighter, so you should use it as a base. This is a great base for blush and shadows.


Shea butter for body

Shea butter is indispensable for dry skin, especially areas such as rough feet, elbows and knees. Especially well it soothes the skin after a depilation session.

Shea butter is also used in massage, it allows you to tone the skin and prevent cellulite.

Keep in mind that itching after an insect bite can also be treated with shea butter.


Shea butter for hair

Shampoo, balm, homemade mask - shea butter can be added to any hair product, regardless of their type. Get rid of dandruff, give hair shine and shine, restore it along its entire length, allowing you to forget about split ends, replenish water balance, protect against temperature extremes, wind, ultraviolet radiation - all this can be done by a couple of drops of shea butter.


Shea butter for lips, eyelashes and eyelids

Balms with shea butter will protect the delicate skin of the lips and eyelids from the sun and frosty wind, so this is a must-have in your bag at the beach and ski resort.

A little shea butter will make your lashes thicker and longer if used regularly.


Shea butter during pregnancy

Heard about stretch marks during pregnancy? You may not see them on your body if you apply shea butter on the abdomen, chest and thighs. The skin will be elastic and will not get tears that occur with dryness and lack of tone. If you already have stretch marks, you can minimize them by using shea butter as soon as they appear.


Recipes for homemade cosmetics with shea butter

Revitalizing body cream

Melt in a water bath 2 tbsp. shea butter and add the same amount of almond oil, 1 tbsp. aloe juice and a couple of drops of lavender and chamomile extracts. Mix until smooth and refrigerate. Apply every day as a regular cream. Store in refrigerator.


Strengthening hair mask

In 2 tbsp. shea butter and the same amount of burdock add 1 tbsp. cedar oils. Apply to dry hair for 40 minutes.

Hair & Eyebrow Growth Tool

Mix 30 g of shea butter with 30 g of castor oil, add a couple of drops of rosemary extract and thyme oil. Apply regularly only to hair roots or eyebrows for at least 10 treatments.

Nourishing lip balm

The perfect winter protector for your lips. Take 15 g of shea butter, 10 g of jojoba oil, 2 drops of lemon oil, put in a water bath and melt, stirring with a wooden spatula. Pour the mixture into a container and place in the refrigerator to set.


Eye emulsion

All you need is shea butter, melted in a water bath. Apply with gentle movements to the area of ​​mimic wrinkles. If you do not forget to carry out this simple procedure, you can see how swelling and dark circles under the eyes have disappeared.

Anti-acne mask

Mix 1 tbsp. shea butter and honey, a few drops of walnut oil and a crushed salicylic acid tablet. Apply the mask at night for 20 minutes, you can only on problem areas, then remove it with a dry cloth. After that, you do not need to wash and apply other products.


Shea butter is an amazing substance, the properties of its composition are unique, they justify its use for the face in its pure form and as part of masks. The presence of minerals and vitamins makes it a healing remedy for restoring the health of a person with any type of skin.

Shea butter is extracted from a plant called Shea butter, which grows on the African continent. Karite lives for more than one century and during this time reaches a height of 20 meters. At 20, it blooms, and at 50 it begins to bear fruit. Interestingly, only the fair sex is allowed to remove shea fruits, due to the fact that their hands will cope with this work carefully and accurately.

It is the fruits that are used to extract the healing oil.

Shea butter has a fragrant nut-like smell.

It is classified into several types:

  1. A - raw;
  2. B - refined;
  3. C - has a high degree of purification;
  4. D - has a minimum amount of impurities;
  5. E - contains impurities.

The oil contains more than 80% triglycerides and only 20% unsaponifiable fats.

Unsaponifiable fats are:

  • caristerols;
  • carbohydrates.

Triglycerides contain different types of acids:

  • oleic and linoleic;
  • stearic and palmitic;
  • arachidic, linolenic and myristic.

The composition of the oil contains a huge number of vitamins that have the most beneficial effect on the condition of the skin.

The effect of shea butter on the skin

Shea has a general softening effect on the skin, allowing you to achieve such goals:


Are there any contraindications?

Shea butter properties and use for the face in its pure form is almost completely safe, it can be used even in newborns.

However, it is important to pay attention to such features of its application:

  • individual intolerance to the components of the product can provoke the development of an allergic reaction, so the first use should be minimal;
  • the oil has many properties, some of which have not been fully explored, so people with sensitive skin types should use it carefully;
  • if stored incorrectly (at room temperature or under the influence of sunlight), the product may deteriorate and not only be of no use, but also be harmful. The same applies to substances that have already expired.

In order not to harm your own health, it is recommended to test for an allergic reaction during the first use. It is necessary to apply a small part of the composition to the inside of the arm and wait half an hour, in the absence of burning, redness and itching, the oil can be safely used for its intended purpose.

An important point: the oil in its pure form is not stored for more than 2 years, and in the composition of creams - 3 months.

How to choose a quality product?

In order for the remedy to actually benefit, it is important to choose a product in the store that will be of high quality.

For this, it is important to adhere to the following rules:

  • purchase of the product only at specialized points of sale;
  • the qualitative composition has only a slight aroma of a nut, without the admixture of other strong odors;
  • If the oil is warmed to room temperature, it will look like butter, will become just as soft and pliable;
  • upon contact with the body, high-quality shea begins to melt.

Facial application according to skin type

If you use shea butter, in accordance with the characteristics of the skin of the face, on a regular basis, you can achieve an improvement in its condition, both external and internal.

Masks should be applied to previously cleansed skin for 15-20 minutes:


Shea has a dense texture, so it is better to use it as part of a cream applied in the evening, rather than in the morning. It is best to apply it a couple of hours before going to bed, otherwise there is a high probability of puffiness. It is important to apply the composition to the face and neck area only after cleansing, and then remove the excess with a paper towel.

For normal skin type: mix a teaspoon of shea butter with a drop of essential oil (any: verbena has a rejuvenating effect, cloves will tone, almonds whiten, jasmine moisturizes, rosewood soothes);

For fatty type: mix 2 tsp. olive oil, jojoba and shea, add a drop of mint and lemon oils. This composition must be preheated with a water bath and applied to the skin: the texture of the cream will be airy, it will perfectly whiten, remove shine and relieve inflammation.

Proper application in its purest form

The properties of shea butter allow its active use for the face as creams and in its pure form:


Application of shea butter for the eye area

The properties and possibilities of using shea butter in its pure form for the face can significantly moisturize and nourish the skin. Shea butter has a special effect on the delicate skin of the eyelids, which requires mandatory and delicate protection. You can use this substance both independently and by combining it with other means. For example, with jojoba oil.

Application: you need to take a pea of ​​the product, melt it with the warmth of your hands and gently drive it into the skin of the eyelids (you need to act very carefully so as not to overstretch the skin). Especially carefully you need to apply oil to the area where mimic wrinkles form during squinting.

Shea butter for lips

In order to prevent overdrying and cracking of the delicate skin of the lips, you need to timely and regularly use this tool to protect and moisturize them.

The healing properties of the oil will quickly restore the natural beauty of the lips, restore their shine, rich color and moisturize, protecting them from moisture loss.

You can make this cream:

  • melt the wax by using a bowl that is in a pot of water;
  • pour pre-melted shea butter into it;
  • add the following oils to this mixture: oil, mint, chamomile;
  • now it is enough to mix honey into the cinnamon oil.

The finished balm should be poured into a glass container, allowed to thicken and used daily, especially before going outside in frosty weather.

All ingredients will help improve the appearance of the lips:

  • cinnamon gives a rush of blood, due to which the color improves;
  • mint cools the skin, relieving irritation;
  • chamomile with lemon balm heal microcracks and wounds.

In addition to this recipe, there is another, no less effective:

  • mix caride with jojoba;
  • dilute the mixture with lemon oil and rose water (each ingredient should be taken 10-15 gr.);
  • after cooling, the balm can be applied to the lips.

Shea butter for aging skin

In order to stop the process of withering of the skin of the face and restore its lost elasticity, you need to use shea butter. The main condition: the frequency of applying the product.

To increase the elasticity of the skin, you can use this mask:

  • mix starch (18 gr.) With 5-7 gr. shea butter;
  • stir them to a viscous state;
  • add dill oil;
  • if necessary, you can add a little distilled water.

It is necessary to apply such a mask only after preliminary steaming of the skin.. During application, you need to distribute the mass over the massage points, gently driving it into the pores. Keep this mask for no more than 20 minutes, and wash off with infusion of chamomile.

Shea butter for acne

This substance gives a good effect when used on skin damaged by acne, pimples or acne. The natural properties of the oil not only soothe inflammation, but also reduce itching and also improve complexion. To prepare such a mask, you need to mix shea butter in an amount of 5 g. with 7 gr. honey melted in a steam bath.

Then add 12 drops of nut butter (ideally cashew nuts) and no more than 5 drops of salicylate to this composition. It is better to apply the mask in the evening, the skin must first be cleaned of impurities and residues of decorative cosmetics. After half an hour, the mass is washed off, using a pre-prepared decoction of calendula for this.

Using Shea Butter for Peeling

In order to soften the skin, which is prone to peeling, you can use this recipe:

  • 2 tsp mix shea butter with a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil (it can be replaced with almond, grape, sesame or corn);
  • add 3 drops of chamomile oil, or lemon balm, or rosewood;
  • mash half a banana with a fork and add the oil mixture to it;
  • You need to apply this mask twice a week, its effect time is half an hour.

Application for sensitive skin care

Shea butter is actively used for face care in its pure form, its properties and application allow you to soothe such skin and prevent irritation. This type of skin is characterized by increased sensitivity to environmental changes and cosmetic products.

Shea butter is not capable of causing such reactions and is therefore often used in masks:

  • you need to mix a tablespoon of this oil with 2 tablespoons of almond oil;
  • add a few drops of lavender or chamomile oil;
  • You can apply this mask in the morning and in the evening, using it instead of another nutrient.

Valuable components contained in shea butter can raise the level of skin elasticity and increase its resistance to external factors.

Application for tanning

Shea can be used to get an even tan. An important feature of this tool is to protect the skin from the harmful effects of harmful ultraviolet rays.

Shea Butter Functions:


Pre-sun application:

  1. Be sure to exfoliate the body to exfoliate dead skin particles.
  2. Apply the product in an even layer over the entire surface of the body.
  3. After being in the sun, you need to take a shower and again apply oil to the body, which will soothe the skin and moisturize it.

Shea butter for wrinkles

To compensate for the lack of nutrients in the skin of the face responsible for its elasticity, the use of shea butter helps a lot, the properties of which perform this function both in pure form and in creams. Shea perfectly smoothes wrinkles that have already appeared and prevents the formation of new ones.

For this purpose, you can use the following mask:

  • grind 20 gr. cottage cheese with 2 quail eggs;
  • enter into the resulting mass 3 gr. shea butter;
  • steam out the skin of the face;
  • apply a dense layer of the mask and hold it for 20 minutes;
  • wash off with a damp cloth.

Wound healing ointment for chapped lips

In order to heal the smallest, but very painful wounds that form on the delicate skin of the lips, you can use this ointment:


Shea butter for oily skin

Experts advise to use shea butter for every type of skin care.

However, in the case of oily skin, it is important to follow 2 rules:

  1. Oil can be used occasionally, its regular use can adversely affect the condition of the skin.
  2. You should not use shea butter unchanged, so as not to clog pores.

Owners of oily skin type can make themselves such a mask:

  • mix a teaspoon of shea with white clay powder;
  • drip tea tree oil and pour 2 tbsp. boiled water;
  • after thorough mixing, apply to the skin and hold for 15 minutes.

Shea butter for skin hydration

To solve the problem of rough skin in the heels or knees, you can also use shea butter. The best effect is provided by a moisturizer that will eliminate dryness, peeling and soften the skin.

You can prepare it this way:

  • melt shea butter (50 gr.), Then add lemon, ylang-ylang, geranium and taman oils to it (3 drops each);
  • remove from the stove;
  • cool and pour into a glass container;
  • apply 2 times a day (but not more often) to damaged areas of the skin, slowly rubbing it with massage movements.

Shea butter (karite) is widely used in African countries. It is used in cooking and body and hair care. The firm, smooth skin and thick, strong hair of local women have taken the interest of Western cosmetic companies, and shea butter is now found in skin creams, balms, and hair shampoos around the world. You can read about the benefits in our previous article. What is the secret of the "African miracle" for the face? Can it be used to prolong the youth and beauty of the skin?

Shea butter properties for facial skin

Thanks to the triglycerides and unsaponifiable fats that make up shea butter, it:

  • moisturizes and nourishes the skin,
  • smoothes wrinkles
  • tightens the oval of the face,
  • fights inflammation
  • eliminates peeling, irritation and itching,
  • evens out complexion
  • protects the skin from exposure to the sun, wind, cold,
  • accelerates the healing of minor cuts, wounds,
  • contributes to the treatment of psoriasis, eczema, dermatosis.

If you do not know, then the choice depends on the purpose for which it will be used. In general, these two types of shea butter are equally useful.

How to use shea butter for face?

The product can be used both in its pure form, and as part of various face masks, and in the form of a homemade soufflé cream, and adding it to your favorite cream.

Can you use shea butter on your face instead of cream?

When getting acquainted with oil skin care, many people wonder if it is possible to replace face cream with oil (some do not ask at all, but thoughtlessly replace it). No, by no means!

All industrial cosmetics for moisturizing and nourishing include water. You may have noticed that Aqua (Latin for “water”) is the first ingredient listed in any creams. It is water that is responsible for moisturizing the skin. Therefore, before using shea butter as a mask, massage oil, or as a homemade cream, apply a moisturizer to your face. It can be a moisturizer, hydrolate, tonic, lotion, herbal decoction, or plain water. You can not use additional funds only by mixing shea butter with a daily face cream.

Using Shea Butter Face Cream

Cosmetic shea butter is used in its pure form or as a base for creating massage mixtures, oil applications, masks. Facial massage using shea increases the permeability of the skin for better absorption of the beneficial substances of the product.

In addition, it is also popular, because shea butter is the main component of homemade face cream.

For intensive skin nutrition (especially in the autumn-winter period), you can prepare a cream with shea butter and. To do this, equal proportions of the two products are mixed in a clean bowl, then the composition is brought to a homogeneous state in a water bath and allowed to cool slightly. After that, the mixture is whipped for a long time with a mixer until a light, airy mass is obtained. Nourishing cream is ready to use!

As you can see, there is no aqueous phase in its composition, so it should only be applied to wet skin. When used correctly, homemade cream will saturate the dermis with useful elements, increase its tone and protect it from the negative effects of the environment.

Shea butter for oily skin

Shea butter is quite heavy and even in the form of such a soufflé can clog pores on oily or breakout-prone skin. If the use of soufflé cream causes the appearance of comedones and blackheads, then it should be applied no more than 1-2 times a week or completely abandoned. The same applies to the use of shea butter for the face in its pure form and as part of oil mixtures and masks.

Does shea butter help acne?

With anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, the natural remedy successfully fights acne and skin rashes. To reduce inflammation, apply oil directly to the pimple at night and wash off with plain water in the morning.

Shea butter for the skin around the eyes

If there is a risk of clogging pores and acne on the cheeks, chin and forehead from using shea, then the skin around the eyes will only “thank you” for its use.

Shea butter applied to the pre-moistened area under the eyes perfectly copes with crow's feet, tightens the skin of the eyelids, reduces their swelling, eliminates dark circles under the eyes and signs of fatigue.

Use shea butter around the eyes every day at night for a fresh, radiant look.

How does shea butter for eyelashes work?

Shea butter is a great moisturizer for dry eyelashes. It is enough to regularly apply it to the ciliary strands before going to bed so that they become shiny and elastic.

From the loss of eyelashes, a mixture of shea butter, burdock oil and cedar ether, taken in proportions of 2: 3: 1 ml, is effective. The composition should be applied for half an hour, then washed off.

Shea butter for lips

Shea Butter repairs dry and chapped lips. It can traditionally be applied at night in its pure form or prepared as a lip balm from the following ingredients:

  • 3 tsp melted shea,
  • 2 tsp jojoba oil,
  • 2 tsp rose water,
  • a couple of drops of lemon ether.

All components must be thoroughly mixed in a clean bowl. The finished balm can be poured into an opaque gloss tube so that it is always at hand.

Shea butter face masks

Shea butter is the champion among oils in terms of its ability to increase skin permeability. So, being part of various face masks, shea butter allows the beneficial substances of the components of each of them to penetrate deep into the dermis, due to which not only the outer layer of the skin, the epidermis, but also the inner layers receive nutrition.

Consider the recipes for the most useful masks using shea butter.

Nourishing Shea Butter Facial Mask

Ingredients:

  • 1/3 banana
  • 1 st. l. shea,
  • 1 tsp natural honey.

Banana must be mashed with a fork, mixed with melted shea butter and honey. Apply to a clean face for half an hour, rinse. Apply a mask with shea butter for the face 1-2 times in 7-10 days. If you are allergic to honey, it is better to refuse it and find a more suitable recipe.

Mask with shea butter against wrinkles

Ingredients:

  • 15 ml shea,
  • 7 ml rosehip oil,
  • yolk of one egg,
  • dried lemon peel.

Grind the lemon peel into flour using a coffee grinder and mix it with melted shea butter and egg yolk. The mass should be homogeneous, without lumps. Lastly, add rosehip oil and mix thoroughly.

The finished mask should be applied to clean skin with a thin layer for half an hour, rinse with warm water. The procedure can be repeated 1-2 times a week. Expected result: even and healthy complexion, reduction of fine wrinkles, elastic skin.

Shea butter mask for oily skin

Ingredients:

  • 5 ml melted shea butter
  • 1 drop of tea tree essential oil,
  • 1 tsp white clay,
  • 2 tbsp. l. water.

Thoroughly mix all components to a homogeneous mass without lumps in a clean non-metallic container. Apply the resulting mixture on a clean face, avoiding the area around the eyes, for a quarter of an hour, rinse with running water. Frequency of application - 1 time per week.

Do not wait until the clay is completely dry, so as not to dehydrate the skin. The procedure is best done lying down, so that under the weight of heavy clay the skin straightens and tightens, and not, on the contrary, sags, pulled down by the clay when you are sitting or standing.

So, shea butter is a good facial treatment. It suits all skin types and enhances the benefits of any ingredients used with it. This allows every woman to experiment with the product until the perfect recipe is found that suits her.

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