Benefits of Shea Butter
Shea butter has many potential benefits for hair and skin including moisturising, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging effects. Shea butter is also very moisturising for the hair and scalp. People with curly and coarse hair textures benefit from using shea butter as a sealant to keep moisture in their hair and increase softness. Shea butter contains the chemical compound amyrin, which has well-documented anti-inflammatory properties. Shea butter helps cell regeneration, minimises signs of aging, and boosts collagen. Many of these benefits are also attributed to amyrin. Shea butter also has a lot of potential in the hair care world. While shea butter hasn’t been extensively studied or reported on in scientific journals, related butters and oils have been researched with animal and human subjects.
Filled with Vitamins A and E along with essential fatty acids, shea butter has both emollient and healing properties for the skin. Some of these ingredients, such as the high content of fatty acids in shea butter, are also thought to help add moisture to your hair. This might possibly reduce dryness and prevent split ends. Fatty acids also help increase shine and reduce the frizz of your hair. It may also help protect hair from heat damage caused by flat irons and blow drying.
Shea butter’s anti-inflammatory properties might also help reduce redness and scalp irritation by providing healing effects without clogging the pores. Additionally, as a natural product, it’s safe to use on all types of hair, even hair that’s damaged, dry, or colour treated. Raw shea butter isn’t the only hair care solution available. Certain over-the-counter hair care products (especially conditioners) also contain shea butter. The role of conditioners in overall hair health includes strengthening hair fibers, lubricating cuticles, and reducing frizz.
