JUCA Ghananian shea Butter

1. It’s safe for most skin types

Shea butter is technically a tree nut product. But unlike most tree nut products, it’s very low in the proteins that can trigger allergies. Though unlikely, it could still trigger a reaction in some people with a tree nut allergy.

Shea butter is safe for most skin types. It has a low comedogenic rating, meaning it is not likely to clog pores for most people, but some people do say it makes them break out if they are prone to acne. Doing a patch test is the best way to see if it will work for your skin.

»MORE:What noncomedogenic means in skin care products

2. It’s moisturizing

Shea butter is typically used for its moisturizing effects. These benefits are tied to shea’s fatty acid content, including linoleic, oleic, stearic, and palmitic acids.

When you apply shea topically, these oils are rapidly absorbed into your skin. They act as a “refatting” agent, restoring lipids and rapidly creating moisture.

This restores the barrier between your skin and the outside environment, holding moisture.

3. It won’t make your skin oily

Shea butter contains high levels of linoleic acid and oleic acid. These two acids balance each other out. That means shea butter is easy for your skin to fully absorb and won’t make your skin look super oily after application.

That said, if you have very oily skin, it may be best to use an oil-free moisturizer.

»MORE:Best sunscreens for oily skin

4. It’s anti-inflammatory

The plant esters of shea butter have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties. When applied to the skin, shea triggers cytokines and other inflammatory cells to slow their production.

This may help minimize irritation caused by environmental factors, such as dry weather, and inflammatory skin conditions, such as eczema.

»MORE:Anti-inflammatory diet 101

5. It’s an antioxidant

Shea butter has significant levels of vitamins A and E, which means it promotes strong antioxidant activity.

Antioxidants are important because they protect skin cells from free radicals, which can lead to premature aging and dull-looking skin.

6. It’s antibacterial

A 2022 study suggests shea butter has antibacterial properties. Though more research is needed, topical application may decrease the amount of acne-causing bacteria on the skin.

7. It may help boost collagen production

Shea butter contains triterpenes. These naturally occurring chemical compounds are thought to deactivate collagen fiber destruction.

This may minimize the appearance of fine lines and result in plumper skin.

»LEARN:All about collagen