WHY is it so awesome though? Shea butter, which comes from the nuts of the karite shea trees in Africa, is a rich moisturizer, packed with essential fatty acids and a healthy dose of vitamins A and E. It is extremely hydrating and works wonders on dry skin. Because of the fatty acids and vitamins, it is also anti-aging and even works great as an anti-inflammatory, helping to heal minor burns and skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis. It even helps to relieve sunburn! The American Shea Butter Institute (yes, it's a thing, you guys) actually lists 21 different conditions that shea butter will benefit, which you should definitely check out.
According to those shea lovers at Shea Butter Institute, it's super important to make sure you're purchasing raw, unrefined shea butter. "Raw shea butter maintains its therapeutic qualities and will keep your skin moist, whereas refined, processed shea butter loses almost all of its healing properties." Luckily, the shea butter that Cleopatra's Choice sent me is indeed 100% pure, unrefined, organic shea. So yeah, the real deal.
This shea butter came in a clear, 16 oz tub that was packed full with shea butter. I've never actually played too much with raw shea butter before, although I had heard about it for so long, I would just use skincare products that contained it... so, when I opened the tub to reveal rock-hard shea butter filled to the brim, I couldn't help but think "..... hmmmmmmmm, but how do I use it?!" But, that actually waasn't too difficult! Shea butter is similar to solid coconut oil. Since it's so stock full of fatty acids and oils, it melts really quickly. Like, to the touch. I guess that's why you see so many pictures of shea butter that look like this..
as well as this:
People like to use their knives and metal spatulas to spoon out as much shea butter as they need. It melts super quickly once it's in the palm of your hand, so don't worry, it's not as much of a pain in the butt as you may think. Alternatively, you can warm it up in the microwave for 15-25 seconds, depending on how intense your microwave is.
I should also mention that my tub of shea butter says that it is "ivory" color, as compared to "yellow." I had no idea what this meant, until I saw this cute little chart on Cleo's website that clarified this-- apparently, ivory shea butter is a bit softer than yellow shea butter. It also absorbs quicker and, therefore, is a much better option when it comes to using it as a hydrating tool. After doing a bit more research, I found that there really isn't much of a difference in the properties of ivory versus yellow shea butter (::sigh of relief), though apparently it can be processed a bit different. So, that's that, for you future shea butter fans.
I applied the shea butter after showering, when my skin was moist and my pores were nice and soft and ready to absorb this fatty acid hydrating madness. Since the bathroom was already hot and steamy, the shea butter melted quickly. It did take a little bit more effort than slathering on a bottle of alcohol / water / filler filled moisturizing lotion, but.. come on. This has no fillers whatsoever, so it almost makes it more worthwhile that you have to work for the good stuff. It was almost more satisfying, in some sick way.
After covering my body with the raw shea, I instantly felt butter. My legs had especially been suffering with some dryness since I came back from my Mexico trip, and nothing seemed to really do the trick. After applying, my legs instantly looked and felt better. I've been using it ever since, and I've certainly noticed positive results.
Some people use shea butter as a scalp treatment or as a facial moisturizer. I personally haven't tried either, but I can say that I would never personally use pure shea butter on my face. In my opinion, it's too heavy for most skin types, and you're likely to break out or have a reaction after putting it on your delicate face, where the skin is more sensitive and thin than other areas of the body. However, as a scalp treatment, I say go for it. I also use it as a lip treatment, and it works beautifully, and I am very picky about my lip moisturizers.
I'm really happy that I was finally introduced to the world of raw, pure shea butter. It would work lovely as an ingredient in DIY home beauty treatments or for those clever people who make their own soaps and things. Plus, this heavy tub is going to last me a long time. I love the way it feels and makes my skin glow. I'd definitely recommend this and it's now going to be an essential in my bathroom during the cold, dry winter months.
You can purchase your own 1 pound tub of Cleopatra's Choice 100% Pure African Ivory Shea Butter for $16 (+ free shipping!) right now on amazon. I say, go for it. Those winter months are right around the corner (ugh, gag me).
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I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers
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