The Winter months can be harsh on your skin, but your moisturizing products don't have to be! During the season of dry skin, the presence of harsh chemicals in soaps and moisturizers can exacerbate skin irritation, leading to further discomfort. We love to use Shea Butter as a natural ingredient in our bar soaps and lip balms to soothe your skin in the colder months.

Shea Butter, derived from the Shea tree, is a creamy fat used in various African recipes and medicinal practices. However, it is most commonly known for its presence in beauty and cosmetic products.

Shea butter is extracted from the Shea tree found in certain parts of Africa. Within the nut produced by the tree, there are two fatty kernels. These kernels are separated from the nut, crushed into a powder, and then boiled in water. During the boiling process, the shea butter naturally rises to the surface and solidifies.

Shea Butter, cherished for its emollient properties, is widely used in beauty and cosmetic products to soothe and soften the skin. Its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory qualities make it effective in addressing conditions like dandruff, eczema, and dry skin. Additionally, Shea Butter is abundant in fatty acids, as well as vitamins A and E, which promote healthy cell turnover and provide the skin with antioxidants.

Shea Butter is also known for providing natural sun protection. It has a sun protection factor (SPF) of three or four, and manufacturers can combine it with other protective ingredients like zinc oxide to reach SPF 15 and higher.

It is important to note that Shea Butter is safe for those with nut allergies, as although it comes from nuts, it is made entirely of fat. However, those with latex allergies should avoid raw Shea Butter and only use refined Shea Butter.

While natural moisturizers can help with dry skin when the weather is cold and brittle, the best way to keep your skin soft and moisturized all year round is to support your skin from within! Staying hydrated with lots of water, eating a healthy and nutrient-packed diet, and getting your full 8 hours of sleep is crucial to the health of your skin!

So why not give your skin some love by using natural moisturizers like Shea Butter? To experience the benefits of Shea Butter yourself, try out our MADE SAFE certified soap bars and lip balms that prioritize safety, non-toxicity, and moisturization. Your skin will thank you!

References:

Shea Butter - Uses, Side Effects, and More  - WebMD - (webmd.com)

What is Shea Butter? 22 Benefits, Uses, and Products to Try (healthline.com)

6 Shea Butter Benefits for Skin - Cleveland Clinic - (clevelandclinic.org)