Shea Butter
Also known as: Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, Vitellaria Paradoxa Butter, Karite Butter
What is Shea Butter?
A fat extracted from the nuts of the African shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa), rich in stearic and oleic acids and vitamins A and E.
Why is it used in products?
It's one of the most popular natural moisturizers, used for its deeply hydrating, soothing, and skin-barrier-repairing properties.
Why does it clog pores?
Shea butter has a moderately comedogenic oleic acid content that can disrupt the lipid balance inside pores. Its thick, rich consistency creates a strong occlusive seal over the skin that traps sebum and dead cells. While some acne-prone people tolerate it, many experience breakouts from its heavy pore-coating texture.
Commonly found in
- moisturizers
- body butters
- lip balms
- hair products
- soaps