Leaderboard Banner

Shea Butter for Dry Skin

by Laura Beans

Winter woes extend beyond the cold and snow. Our skin takes a beating this time of year, ending up dry, cracked and uncomfortable. Shea butter is an age-old quick-fix we still reach for today.
Shea butter comes from the nut of the African karite tree. It is packed with vitamins, essential fatty acids and intensely hydrates and protects skin as a natural moisture barrier. The antioxidant-rich nut butter can even aid in reducing symptoms of acne, eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis. It’s our go-to year round, as a moisturizer that also helps to fight the signs of premature aging.

Tips:

Buy Raw
Raw, unrefined shea butter is extracted and produced without additives, preservatives or chemicals—the way West Africans have been sourcing this precious commodity for centuries. Buying your shea butter raw ensures that all of the natural healing and moisturizing properties are retained, and that it is healthy for your entire family to use.
Look for Organic Ingredients and Fair Trade
Because shea butter originates in West Africa, many companies implement fair-trade procedures, certifying their brands to meet specific developmental, socioeconomic and environmental standards. Also, look for brands that follow organic farming practices or source organic ingredients to guarantee the best of the best for both yourself and the environment.
Try Whipped Shea Butter
Unrefined shea butter can sometimes be difficult to apply to skin and hair—in its original state it’s texture is hard and not very malleable. Buying whipped shea butter products, or making your own, gives you the creamy texture of high-end, commercial skincare products without sacrificing shea’s chemical structure and all the benefits it brings.
Here are some of Organic Spa Magazine‘s favorite shea butter brands:
Nubian Heritage
Committed to alleviating poverty, Nubian Heritage invests communities; utilizing seven women’s shea butter cooperatives in Ghana and working with them to develop sustainable business plans. nubianheritage.com
Ojoba Collective
Raw, hand-crafted shea butter is extracted traditionally by the Ojoba Women’s Shea Cooperative in Ghana. The co-op secures workers rights by empowering women, providing high wages and extending living standards to family members. ojobacollective.com
Shea Yeleen
Specializing in organic and fair trade shea butter skin care, Shea Yeleen ethically sources their products from two different women’s cooperatives in Northern Ghana. sheayeleen.com
 
[divider]
 

OSM Homepage

Like what you see? This article was included as part of our eWellness Living newsletter. Subscribe for free today!

 

You may also like