"Now with added Shea!" 

"Includes Hydrating Shea Butter!"

"Infused with Shea oil"

"Rich in shea butter"

Just reading a few labels from some well-known brands of soaps and lotions. The skincare industry loves to remind us that they're using it, but what exactly IS shea butter? And why is it so great?

Shea butter (which isn't really a butter at all) is a fat extracted from the nut of the shea tree. It is often considered a must in beauty and skincare products. 

I've read that shea's natural properties  - high levels of linoleic and oleic acid - mean fatty acids, which your skin actually needs. Shea butter also has significant levels of vitamins A and E, as well as triterpenes, for those skin-obsessed folks worried about wrinkles and aging lines.

Safe for all skin types (unless, of course, you are allergic to it), shea butter has been traditionally used in West Africa not only for skin and hair growth, care and maintenance, but also to soothe insect bites and stings. It's even used in food. (If you're curious, here are some tips on how to use unrefined shea butter when cooking.)

 If you're curious to learn more about shea butter and how it fits into your skincare and cleansing routine, talk to your dermatologist or health-care professional.

*Statements do not constitute medical advice and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or illness. Consult your doctor or healthcare provider for benefits of all products.