A couple of years ago I began to use all natural products (meaning no chemical alterations) as I noticed many of the over the counter products did nothing for my and my hubby's skin or it just made it worse. Through research I discovered Raw Shea Butter and it has now become a huge staple in my home. I would like to share with you the history and benefits of Raw Shea Butter and hopefully you will decide to take the same route as well.
Shea is found in the tropics of Africa and extracted from the Shea Karite tree. It's fatty acids are what give it it's unique healing properties. Shea Butter is naturally solid at room temperature but immediately liquefies at body temperature. This type of butter is called raw or unrefined shea butter.
I have listed different types of Shea Butter below:
Raw/Unrefined- Extracted using water and ranges in yellow color from the color of whipped butter to a grayish yellow.
Refined- Highly Processed but has some of it's natural components within. Meaning, if Shea Butter is the first ingredient on the list then it has most of it's natural components but with chemicals added.
Highly Refined or Processed- Many components have been extracted and the shea is now at more of a chemical state. This is usually white in color with a creamy consistency.
When shea butter is highly processed it takes away from the benefits that it can provide and usually irritates the skin more by clogging the pores. The highly processed kind will be the type you find in many big name chain stores. You will want to gear towards small beauty supply stores, health food stores or online when looking for raw shea butter.
Below is a list of the benefits of Raw Shea Butter and I have included a star next to the ones that I have experienced.
Benefits:
Daily Skin Moisturizer *
Dry Skin Relief *
Treats and Heals Eczema *
Heals Dry Scalp*
Heals Skin Rash, Including Diaper Rash
Heals Skin Peeling after Tanning
Clears Blemishes *
Minimizes Wrinkles
Soothes and Heals Sunburn
Can be used as a Shaving Creaming to avoid irritation
Softens tough skin on feet *
Heals small skin wounds *
Stretch Mark Prevention During Pregnancy
Heals Minor Burns *
Sunscreen/Wind Protection *
Help to develop an even skin tone *
Eliminates scalp irritation due to dryness of chemical processing *
Reduces Acne *
Absorbs quickly with no greasy aftermath *
Restores elasticity to skin
Restores luster to hair *
Heals Arthritis
As you can see I have benefited from Raw Shea Butter in many different ways. I constantly receive compliments on my skin and it's great knowing that I can receive these excellent results without having to have chemicals involved. Raw Shea butter is a great alternative to your regular skincare program and believe me when I say your body and skin will thank you for it.
Stay Fab!
