The Biochemical Composition of Shea Butter

Shea butter is a natural fat obtained from the fruit of the shea tree (Butyrospermum parkii), which belongs to the Sapotaceae family. This wild tree begins to produce fruit after 20 years and reaches its maximum production capacity after 50 years.

The fruit is harvested in the African bush exclusively by women between May and August. Once the fruit is brought home, the women process it in several steps to obtain the shea kernels: the fruit is stripped of its flesh, then the nuts are boiled, sun-dried and shelled. The kernels obtained are again dried in the sun before being transformed into butter.

Thus, "women's gold" is an additional source of income for millions of women in Burkina Faso.

The shea butter (INCI name: Butyrospermum Parkii Butter) in our care products comes from these fruits harvested in Burkina Faso. It is then refined in Europe using methods approved by organic certifications.  

In its raw state, shea butter is a solid butter with a waxy appearance. When exposed to room temperature, it melts and becomes oily in texture. Shea butter is light yellow to beige in color and has a slight odor of sweet almond.

Here are the main fatty acids present in shea butter.

• 40 to 50 % of oleic acid or omega-9.

This monounsaturated fatty acid is a lipid that enters the composition of sebum, a substance naturally secreted by the body to alleviate the dryness of the skin and hair. It stimulates the production of sebum by the sebaceous glands. The vegetable oil of sweet almond is thus remoisturizing. It is recommended to treat dry and dehydrated skin and hair.

• 36 to 50% stearic acid.

The National Library of Medicine (NLM) defines stearic acid as a long chain saturated fatty acid. The long chain is composed of 18 carbon atoms. In skin care, stearic acid is known for its emollient, nourishing and protective (film forming) properties.

• 4 to 8% linoleic acid or omega-6.

This category of fatty acids is said to be essential because it is not synthesized by the body. Omega 6 contributes to the process of cellular renewal. In cutaneous application, they thus make it possible to fight against the signs of age and support cicatrization. They also soothe inflammatory reactions and are beneficial for sensitive skin, suffering from tightness and irritation.

• 3 to 8% palmitic acid.

Saturated fatty acids, such as palmitic acid, have emollient properties, which means that they promote the hydration of skin and hair cells. They thus provide suppleness and softness.