How to Properly Use Shea Butter on Your Skin for Glowing Results

Shea butter is derived from the nut of the African shea tree and has been used for centuries as a moisturizer and skin healing agent. It contains vitamins A and E, as well as essential fatty acids that provide numerous benefits when applied topically. To reap the full benefits of shea butter, it's important to select a high-quality, unprocessed version.

What to Look for in High-Quality Shea Butter

Look for shea butter labeled as 100% pure and unrefined with no chemical additives. Shea butter from fair trade certified sources, like that provided by African Fair-Trade Society, ensures the product is ethically sourced. High quality shea butter will be a creamy off-white color and have a mild, nutty scent. It should be rich and dense in texture. Examine the nutritional label and confirm the content of vitamin A and E is high. This indicates a superior grade shea butter ideal for skin application.

Patch Testing for Allergies

• Apply small amount to inner arm and wait 24-48 hours
• Check for redness, itching, swelling or other reactions
• If no reaction, shea butter use can be expanded

Before applying shea butter to large areas of skin, it's advisable to do a patch test for possible allergies. Scoop out a dime sized amount of shea butter and rub it gently into the inner arm. Do not wash off the area. Wait 24-48 hours and check the area for any signs of irritation, redness, itching, swelling or other reactions. If no reaction occurs, the shea butter can be safely used. If any concerning reaction develops, discontinue use.

Shea butter allergies are very rare but it's always best to exercise caution before wider application. This helps avoid adverse reactions. Once the patch test confirms shea butter tolerance, more liberal use can begin.

Smoothing on Clean Skin

• Apply to cleansed skin in circular motions
• Focus on dry areas like knees, elbows, heels
• Use sparingly on oily areas like the face
• massage in thoroughly until absorbed

The best time to apply shea butter is immediately after bathing when skin is clean and slightly damp. Scoop out a nickel to quarter sized amount into your palm and rub your hands together to melt the butter. Smooth it onto skin in a circular motion, concentrating on extra dry areas like knees, elbows and heels. Use a lighter application on the face or oily areas.

Continue massaging and rubbing the shea butter into skin until it's thoroughly absorbed. The soothing circular motion enhances circulation while the emollient compounds hydrate and nourish skin. Shea butter is rapidly absorbed by the skin without leaving an oily residue or clogging pores. Reapply as needed to maintain soft, supple skin all over.

Using Shea Butter for Specific Skin Conditions

• Reduces appearance of scars and stretch marks
• Soothes burns, cuts, rashes and insect bites
• Helps minimize acne breakouts and fade marks
• Anti-aging properties reduce wrinkles and fine lines

In addition to overall moisturizing, shea butter can also help address many specific skin care concerns. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties make it beneficial for:

Reducing the appearance of scars and stretch marks: The vitamins A and E in shea butter help repair scar tissue and improve elasticity. Apply shea butter liberally to old and new scars to lessen their look over time.

Soothing burns, cuts, rashes and insect bites: The fatty acids in shea butter create a protective barrier that seals in moisture and speeds healing of damaged skin. Gently rub shea butter on affected areas for relief.

Minimizing acne and fading residual acne marks: Shea butter has anti-inflammatory properties that calm breakouts and anti-microbial action to kill acne-causing bacteria. The vitamins help fade any lingering marks.

Anti-aging properties to reduce wrinkles and fine lines: Shea butter boosts collagen production which plumps skin and smooths fine lines. The antioxidants neutralize free radicals to prevent premature aging.

Shea butter is highly versatile for addressing various skin care needs beyond just moisturizing. It should be a staple in every skin care routine.

Storing Shea Butter Properly

• Keep in an airtight container away from heat and sun
• It can last 2-3 years if stored properly
• Melt gently before use if hardened

To retain its beneficial properties, shea butter needs to be stored properly. Keep it in an airtight plastic or glass container in a cool, dark place like a kitchen cabinet or pantry. Avoid areas with direct heat or sunlight exposure. When stored properly, shea butter can last 2-3 years before going rancid.

If your shea butter becomes hard and grainy, place the closed container in a bowl of tepid water. Allow it to soften and melt gently for 5-10 minutes before use. Avoid overheating it. With proper storage, shea butter can be a long lasting, economical skin care product.

Conclusion

• Shea butter is an excellent moisturizer and healing agent for skin
• Select high quality, unrefined shea butter and patch test before use
• Apply to clean, damp skin and massage in thoroughly
• Can help address various skin conditions beyond just moisturizing
• Store properly in an airtight container to prolong shelf life

Shea butter is a proven skin care product that can moisturize, heal, and rejuvenate skin when used properly. Choose a high quality grade and apply it routinely after bathing and cleansing skin for optimal absorption. Shea butter works double duty by both hydrating and treating various skin problems like scars, acne, and aging. When this African beauty secret is incorporated into a regular skin care regimen, the benefits are visibly transformative.

For the highest quality, ethically sourced shea butter, look no further than African Fair-Trade Society. Their line of 100% pure, unrefined shea butter retains all the nourishing vitamins and fatty acids needed to reveal radiant, healthy looking skin.