Shea butter is nutrient-rich cosmetic butter that contains significant amounts of vitamins and antioxidants. The multiple benefits of shea butter for hair and its ability to address key hair issues make it a popular ingredient in both hair care products and DIY treatments.

Recommended Video Read on to see why you need shea butter in your life, how to whip it, and what other ingredients to add in for ultimate TLC for your locks.

What is Shea Butter?

Shea butter is extracted from the nuts of the Shea tree or Karite tree (a.k.a Tree of Life), which are native to West Africa. Most of the world’s shea butter still comes from this region and the butter is therefore sometimes referred to as African shea butter.

Although it first gained popularity in the western world as an ingredient for natural hair products, shea butter has quickly become a popular ingredient for all segments of the beauty industry. It is now used in products for hair regardless of hair texture and is also extensively found in skincare products.

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Shea butter is semi-soft in warm temperatures and firm in cooler climates. It readily melts upon contact with the skin, is vegan and safe. Shea butter doesn’t contain chemical irritants that dry out the skin and won’t clog pores. Its fatty acid content strengthens the skin’s natural barrier and in so doing protects hair and scalp from the sun and other environmental damage. This amazing butter also doesn’t make hair oily but rather sinks into the scalp without leaving any greasy residue behind.

Benefits of Shea Butter for Hair

Shea butter is intensely nourishing and moisturizing to the hair and scalp. Its benefits for hair also include stimulating hair growth, taming frizz and sealing in moisture. This is why it is often used to restore heat damaged hair and keep curly and coily hair healthy.