Moisturising, nourishing, regenerating and even anti-inflammatory, shea butter possesses numerous properties. For skin and hair application, it can be used alone or mixed with other compounds. Here are the active ingredients to combine it with to make the most of its benefits.
What should shea butter be mixed with?
Summary
Published on October 4, 2024, by Manon, Scientific Editor — 6 min of reading
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Which vegetable oils should be combined with shea butter?
Raw shea butter , unscented, can be added as an ingredient in the oil phase of a cosmetic preparation. Mixed with other vegetable oils, it can be used in proportions of 1 to 80% in a balm and 1 to 5% in an emulsion. For instance, combine it with sweet almond oil or olive oil to achieve a creamy and easy-to-use texture.
Due to their properties, the following vegetable oils are among those recommended:
Coconut Oil
Rawcoconut oil is recognised for its targeted effects against bacteria. It alleviates skin tightness. Combine it with shea butter and olive oil to benefit from a targeted action against inflammation.
Moringa Oil
Moringa oil nourishes and hydrates the hair fibre, in addition to revitalising mature skin. Rich in vitamins A, C and E, it provides skin protection against free radicals and limits the appearance of brown spots. Its combination with shea butter is known to soothe skin tightness. To reduce hair loss and strengthen the scalp, mix it with castor oil.
Sweet Almond Oil
Rich in Vitamin E and squalene, potent natural antioxidants, this vegetable oil helps to neutralise free radicals. It makes an excellent base as it easily penetrates the epidermis and does not leave a greasy film on the skin's surface. In synergy with shea butter, it nourishes the skin and protects it from external aggressions.
Shea Butter and Essential Oils: The Combinations.
Shea butter can also be combined with essential oils to enhance their effects. Here are some interesting combinations:
In the event of cellulite
The action of shea butter can be complemented by essential oils of Lemon or Rock Samphire , which are beneficial essential oils against cellulite. They are highly concentrated in limonene, a hypolipidemic molecule, which promotes lipolysis, that is, the breakdown and destruction of fats. Apply by massaging onto the most affected areas, morning and evening. Take a week's break after 3 weeks of use and repeat if necessary.
Caution: The essential oil of Lemon should not be applied to the skin prior to sun exposure.
In the event of stretch marks
The shea butter can be used to prevent and reduce stretch marks. Its effect can be enhanced by the rose geranium essential oil. Apply a few drops of the mixture by massaging and pinching the skin. Repeat this 3 times a day.
In the event of irritation on sensitive or dry skin
The efficacy of shea butter can be significantly enhanced by the tea tree essential oil. As a highly effective antibacterial, tea tree oil is ideal for combating itchiness and bacteria. Due to its concentration of vitamins and fatty acids, this type of combination is a friend to dry, weakened or sensitive skin. It also helps to regulate the sebum of the scalp and fight against dandruff. Use it to alleviate irritations and redness.
In the event of cracks or chapping
In order to enhance the effects of shea butter on skin cracks, it is possible to combine it with rose geranium essential oil, spike lavender essential oil or cistus essential oil. These mixtures are rich in unsaturated fatty acids, giving them softening, soothing and protective properties. Thanks to their content of vitamins A, D and E, they deeply nourish the skin and accelerate its healing. Massage a small amount of the mixture onto the affected area.
In the event of sunburn
Both preventive and curative, shea butter shields the skin from sunburn and soothes it after prolonged exposure. Rich in vitamins and karitene, it absorbs some of the UVB rays, but it does not replace sunscreen. To enhance its effect, combine it with theessential oil of Spike Lavender which calms the skin and gradually reduces burns. For topical application, gently massage your skin with the mixture depending on the extent of the sunburn. Repeat the process 3 times a day until the sunburn is soothed and disappears.
Note: The essential oils mentioned in this article are contraindicated for pregnant and breastfeeding women, children under 6 years old, and infants. These essential oils may contain allergenic components. Generally, it is important to dilute these oils to 20% before any skin application and to test them before use (two drops in the crook of the elbow for at least 24 hours to check for any reaction).
