Sheabutter is a 100% natural product which is derived from the seeds of the shea tree. The shoetree is also called Butyrospermum parkii. This tree grows only in the center of Africa from Guinea in the west to Kenya in the east.
The shea tree produces nut that ripens during the summer months and thereafter dropping on ground. Local population, mostly women, gather this nuts and prepare them, very often in the same manner since it is done for houndredes of years already.
Each nut of the shea tree contains 1 to 3 seeds, which are containing the valuable shea butter. It takes around 4 pounds of seeds to produce 1 pound of raw shea.
Skin moisturizing
The natural Shea of the Shea-tree provide a great nutritious treat for the body, and the nuts produces a perfect skin care. Shea Butter has been used locally already for centuries to moisturise the skin, which is necessary in Africa especially during the dry season.
UVB Protection
Beside of skin moisturizing, locally the Sheabutter is very popular to put it on the the skin and hair for protection against the harsh exposure of the African climate especially the sun. Many of us are aware of the skin damaging effects of the ultraviolet light (UVB component of the sun). So we take appropriate care to minimize the harm by avoiding to much direct sun exposure during the intense hours of the day. This is done by wearing hats, sunglasses and sunscreen.
In Africa they use Sheabutter for this. Natural Shea contains cinnamic acid esters, which are of the most common organic UVB filters used in sunscreen products. The reduction of this UVB light reduce sun damage and prevents skin aging.
Skin healing
Beside of skin moisturizing and UVB protection it is perfect to treat minor scrapes and wounds because of its healing characteristics. Shea butter is also extremely rich in naturally occurring antioxidants,. Substances like tocopherols, which have a well-documented beneficial effects for the skin.
The combination of UVB protecting compounds and antioxidants makes shea butter a great ingredient to heal and protect your skin. Sheabutter stimulates the cellular regeneration and repairs minor wounds and skin abrasions. The anti-elastase activity of shea butter helps to maintain a firm, healthy skin.
Even the development of stretch marks du to the good anti-elastase activity of the oil are confirmed by many woman which have seen good results with this.
This all makes Sheabutter a wonderful choice when looking for a natural skin care product that moisturise, nourish, sooth and protect your skin.