One brand that uses this natural ingredient is Serenitree! Why did we choose this ingredient? Let’s learn the benefits and unique facts of Shea Butter first!

Despite the name “Butter”, This Ingredient is Not a Dairy Product!

Despite the word “Butter” in its name, Shea butter is not derived from dairy products. Shea butter is made by extracting oil from the seeds of the Shea fruit that grows in several countries in West Africa such as Ghana, Burkina Faso, and Nigeria. The process begins with the collection of Shea fruit which is then broken down, dried, and extracted from the oil through grinding and squeezing.

So why does it have the word “Butter” in the name? That’s because its texture resembles butter, is soft, rich in fat, and melts at body temperature. Similar to butter when we apply it to our skin!

Non-Comedogenic

One important thing we should also remember is that while the texture of Shea Butter is very moisturising, it is non-comedogenic. This means that it doesn’t clog pores, making it safe for all skin types. However, if you use too much at the same time, your skin may feel greasy and sticky. To avoid this, we can:

• Use in small amounts or in moderation
• Only use on areas that are completely dry and in need
• Use as a moisturiser at night

Simple right? No need to worry about feeling uncomfortable after using Shea Butter! 

Beneficial for Relieving Nasal Congestion

Who says Shea Butter is only for the skin? It’s so multi-functional that it often appears in traditional medicine, especially in Nigeria. Nigerians have long used Shea Butter to help relieve respiratory problems such as sinusitis. The way it is used can vary, some people apply Shea Butter thinly around the nostrils to moisturise and relieve irritation in the nasal passages.

The nutrients in Shea Butter such as fatty acids, vitamins A and E, along with its natural anti-inflammatory properties, are thought to help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and clear mucus that blocks airflow. Is anyone interested in trying this traditional remedy?

Has Natural UV Protection

Not only is it rich in nutrients that are good for the skin, Shea Butter also has natural SPF! Although Shea Butter has a relatively low natural sun protection factor, estimated to be around SPF (Sun Protection Factor) 6, it can still provide additional protection against UVB rays in small amounts. 

But we must remember that the SPF 6 contained in Shea Butter is not sufficient to fully protect the skin from the ill effects of intense sun exposure. So, you should still use sunscreen!

Similar to Animal Fats

Shea Butter is similar to animal fat because of its main content of stearic acid, which is around 30-50%. Stearic acid has emollient properties that can improve skin texture and maintain the skin’s natural moisture. 

This acidic content also allows Shea Butter to have a soft and dense texture at room temperature, but can melt and be easily absorbed when we apply it to the skin due to body temperature. Perfect for eczema sufferers and people with sensitive skin!

Safe for people with nut allergies

It comes from the nut family, so can we use it if we have a nut allergy? Generally, Shea Butter is a topical ingredient with a low allergy risk. This means that even if we are allergic to nuts, using this ingredient on the skin is still relatively safe/less likely to trigger allergies. But then again, minimal doesn’t mean impossible! Therefore, for Sereni-Trees who are interested in trying it, make sure to do a patch test and stop immediately if inflammation occurs.

Multifunctional Natural Ingredients

This magical natural ingredient is indeed one of the saviours of skin problems, from reducing wrinkles, stretch marks, acne scars, insect bites, psoriasis, inflammation, age spots, and other skin problems. Additionally, nail and hair/scalp health is also assured with Shea Butter. In fact, we previously discussed how this ingredient is often used as a traditional Nigerian medicine!

In addition to medical use, Shea Butter can also be used for cooking (only food grade), lamp fuel, and ingredients for making candles. Isn’t it cool how multifunctional this ingredient is!

Cleopatra’s Favourite Skincare

There’s a reason why this ingredient is still top of the line today. Even since ancient times in Egypt, Shea Butter has been a favourite. Egyptian ruler Cleopatra, known for her intelligence and beauty, used this ingredient in her skincare routine (known from historical records). It is highly prized for its protective capabilities against intense sun exposure and dry desert winds.

Queen Sheba and Queen Nefertiti were known to be big fans of Shea Butter. Indeed, we don’t need to doubt its quality anymore!

Has More Than One Name

The name Shea Butter is probably the best known of the bunch. But actually, this natural ingredient has other names such as Mangifolia, Karite Nut, Galam Butter and Bambuk Butter. The use of these various names depends on the geographical region and culture where the Shea tree grows. 

This is because the Shea Tree grows in 19 African countries, in the grasslands of western and central Africa.

So, there you have it, the unique facts about this natural ingredient! No wonder why Serenitree decided to use it in our moisturiser! For those who want to keep their skin moisturised, nourished and protected, you can definitely try Serenitree’s Hand Cream and Body Lotion!

The post 7 Unique Facts About Shea Butter Skincare Ingredients! appeared first on Serenitree Indonesia.

Why is this natural ingredient one of the skincare secrets?

Get to know the natural skincare ingredient, Shea Butter

The world of skincare is vast and constantly evolving. There are many products, techniques and ingredients to choose from. But sometimes, the best solutions can be found in nature and one ingredient that has been gaining popularity lately is shea butter.

Shea butter itself is the natural fat from the nuts of the shea tree, which originally comes from Africa. For centuries, shea butter has been used by African women for its moisturizing and healing properties. It was in the 1990s that the beauty industry started to take notice of this amazing ingredient. Since then, it has become a staple in many skincare products.

So, what makes shea butter so special? First of all, it is a natural ingredient free from synthetic chemicals and preservatives. This means that it is gentle on the skin without fear of irritation or allergic reactions. Shea butter is also rich in vitamins A and E, as well as fatty acids. These nutrients can then help us nourish and protect our skin safely.

To be more precise, here are the benefits of each nutrient in shea butter:

• Oleic acid: Helps to retain moisture and improve skin texture.
• Stearic acid: Retains moisture and strengthens the skin’s protective layer.
• Vitamin A: Stimulates collagen production in the skin.
• Vitamin E: Is a powerful antioxidant and prevents and repairs free radical skin damage.
• Carotenoids: Protects skin from UV rays and prevents premature aging.
• Allantoin: Reduces inflammation and relieves skin irritation.

Wow, there are so many benefits! Serenitree squad can find this natural ingredient in products such as lotion, moisturizer, soap, body butter, and even hair conditioner. Serenitree Body Lotion also uses shea butter! 

Shea Butter Myths and Facts

Behind its benefits, shea butter also has its myths. Well, so that we don’t fall for these myths, let’s investigate the facts!

• Only suitable for people with dry skin

This is not true Serenitree Squad! This natural ingredient can provide solutions and benefits for ALL skin types, both acne-prone and sensitive skin (eczema, psoriasis). Therefore, you should not hesitate to buy skincare with this ingredient, regardless of your skin type.

• Causes more oily skin

This is also a myth! In fact, this content can reduce excess oil production on the skin. Besides, oily skin still needs moisture. With this content, skin moisture will certainly be well maintained.

• Causes of acne

This is not true, in fact, to prevent acne, this ingredient is very powerful! We can see the function of shea butter which can reduce oil production on our skin. If the oil level on the skin is well controlled and the skin is always moisturized, acne will be afraid to drop by!

• Works only as a moisturizer

As we’ve learned before, shea butter has tons of benefits! That includes: Helps with skin cell regeneration, soothes skin, prevents acne, moisturizes and much more! 

It would be nice as consumers we must always be up to date with information like this! Serenitree does not want you to believe the wrong myths that end up harming yourself. Let’s be wise consumers!

Is Shea Butter Safe for Kids?

It’s not just adults who need skincare. Children also need to have a skincare routine to stay healthy! Usually, skincare with natural ingredients is safer and gentler on the skin. As it turns out, besides being safe for all skin types, shea butter is one of the natural alternative treatments for children! This ingredient can moisturize children’s skin, prevent diaper rash, and relieve skin irritation and inflammation. We also don’t need to worry because natural ingredients generally do not cause negative side effects. Your child’s skin will be healthier and more awake with regular use!

But one thing we need to pay attention to, the selection of skin care should still not be arbitrary! Before buying, check the content on the label for ingredients other than shea butter. Patch tests must be done on children as a form of prevention. To be on the safe side, choose products according to age restrictions.

For example, Serenitree body lotion contains shea butter. Serenitree lotion products brightening variant is suitable for children aged 6 years and above and calming variant for children aged 3 years and above. This can be the initial skin care for the baby. Try to familiarize your children with skin care from an early age to build good habits in the future!

Are Natural Ingredients More Effective?

Natural ingredients like shea butter, plant extracts, and other natural ingredients tend to be slower in delivering visible results on the skin. Especially when compared to skincare products that contain active chemicals. This is because natural ingredients work naturally and gently on the skin, while active chemicals usually give faster results because the effect is stronger and absorbs faster into the skin.

However, while natural ingredients may take longer to deliver visible results, using skincare products that contain natural ingredients can provide long-term benefits. Natural ingredients tend to be gentler on the skin and can help reduce the risk of irritation or allergic reactions, which can occur in sensitive skin that is susceptible to active chemicals. In addition, natural ingredients also tend to be more eco-friendly and sustainable as they do not contain synthetic chemicals that can damage the environment. 

Do you want to get long-term benefits and participate in protecting the health of the environment? Let’s start from now with Serenitree!

The post Shea Butter: The Secret of Natural Skin Care appeared first on Serenitree Indonesia.