Shea Butter: Potential Risks of Topical Application?

Are there any risks associated with using shea butter in cosmetics?

Originating in West Africa, shea butter is a plant-based fat extracted from the kernel of the seeds of the tree Vitellaria paradoxa. Often used in its unrefined form, it is also included in a wide range of skin and hair care products, valued for its anti-inflammatory and emollient properties. Despite its popularity, shea butter, like any cosmetic ingredient, can potentially cause adverse reactions in certain individuals. This is what we will explore in this article.

Published on January 11, 2023, updated on February 9, 2026, by Stéphanie, PhD, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences — 10 min of reading

Does the topical application of shea butter pose any risks?

Rich in various fatty acids, vitamins, phytosterols, and antioxidants beneficial to the skin, the shea butter has long been recognized for its emollient and soothing properties. The Expert Panel for Cosmetic Ingredient Safety (Panel) and current data indicate that shea butter is well tolerated and safe for topical use by most people, on intact or compromised skin. In the European Union, it is not subject to any usage restrictions under the applicable cosmetics regulations.

Additionally, a pilot study conducted in Niger using epicutaneous patch tests (n = 25) alongside a field survey (n = 500) was carried out to evaluate the skin tolerance of shea butter. Its application induced neither irritation nor sensitization in the 25 volunteers during the skin irritation or sensitization tests, even at high shea butter concentrations (45% and 75%). Self-reported data from the field survey also revealed no adverse skin effects, even after 12 years of continuous use.

On the other hand, clinical studies using shea butter as an emollient or in combination with other ingredients for skin conditions (e.g., atopic dermatitis) have reported no adverse events or side effects during the periods of use, even in sensitive populations such as children and patients with arthritis.

However, long-term safety data, especially for chronic or high-dose use, remain limited.

However, as with any cosmetic ingredient, some individuals may experience skin reactions to this natural ingredient. These isolated reactions may manifest as mild redness, itching, swelling, or hives. If you experience these adverse effects after using shea butter, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist for personalized advice and recommendations tailored to your skin’s needs.

The shea butter is renowned for its rich, emollient texture, which may feel overly occlusive for certain skin types, notably oily or blemish-prone skin. Most websites state that shea butter has a low comedogenic rating, but the origin of this assertion is unclear, as there are no studies to support it.

4 minutes to understand your skin. Our dermatological diagnostic guides you toward the ideal skincare for your specific needs. Simple, quick, personalized.

What about the latex that may be present in shea butter?

Raw (unrefined) shea butter contains an allergenic agent: latex. Some plants release it when injured. It acts as a defense against insects. However, this naturally produced milky substance from the shea tree can cause adverse effects in individuals with cutaneous allergies. The effects may vary according to tolerance level, the amount applied, and the duration of application. Often, latex intolerance presents as irritation of the skin and mucous membranes, leading to the appearance of redness, swelling, or itching. In severe cases, topical use of a product containing latex may result in irritant contact dermatitis.

Chez Typology, nous utilisons du beurre de karité raffiné, soit exempt de latex.

And for pregnant and lactating women, as well as children, is shea butter safe for topical application?

Limited data suggest it is well tolerated in children aged 2 to 18 years. Indeed, a Thai randomized controlled trial was identified, evaluating the efficacy of an emollient containing shea butter and ceramides compared to 1% hydrocortisone in children with mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis, aged 2 to 18 years (n = 26). The shea butter and ceramides cream did not lead to any adverse effects after 8 weeks of twice-daily application.

Pediatric safety data are limited to a single short-term trial in children with atopic dermatitis, with no supporting evidence for children under 2 years of age or for long-term use in healthy children.

However, no study has evaluated its safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding, leaving the question of safety in these populations unanswered. Nonetheless, shea butter is considered a safe cosmetic ingredient for these sensitive populations by the expert committee.

The shea olein present in our Nourishing Moisturizer L42 has also been evaluated as safe for cosmetic use.

What precautions should be taken when using shea butter?

Although shea butter is recognized as safe and well tolerated for topical use, certain precautions can help minimize the risk of adverse reactions.

Perform an epicutaneous (patch) test before first use.

As with any cosmetic ingredient, it is recommended toperform a skin patch test before applying shea butter to larger areas of the skin, especially in individuals with reactive skin or on sensitive areas such as the lips or eye contour. This test allows for the detection of any individual skin reaction, however rare. To conduct it, apply a small amount of the product on the inner wrist, the crook of the elbow, or behind the ear, then wait 24 to 48 hours without washing the area. In the absence of any reaction (redness, itching, swelling, etc.), use on larger areas may be considered.

Ensure optimal preservation of shea butter.

Raw shea butter requires appropriate storage conditions to preserve its properties and prevent contamination. As a natural product rich in fatty acids, it is especially susceptible to two degradation mechanisms that can compromise its quality and increase the risk of adverse skin reactions.

The microbiological contamination can occur when raw shea butter is exposed to moisture. Although fats contain very little water, any moisture introduction encourages the growth of bacteria, yeasts, or molds. Some of these yeasts and molds produce enzymes capable of hydrolyzing lipids, leading to an increase in the acid value and gradual degradation of the butter. Contaminated shea butter may then cause irritation or even skin infections, particularly when applied to damaged skin or to very sensitive areas such as the lips or around the eyes.
The oxidative rancidity, in turn, results from prolonged exposure to air, light, or heat. The oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids leads to the formation of peroxides, which upon reaching a certain critical threshold can generate volatile secondary compounds such as aldehydes and ketones responsible for the characteristic rancid odor. Beyond sensory deterioration, these compounds can reduce the cosmetic efficacy of shea butter and increase its potential to irritate the skin.

In order to minimize these risks and extend the shelf life of this vegetable fat, it is recommended to store shea butter in an airtight container, protected from light, heat, and moisture, in a cool, dry place. The use of clean, dry hands or a clean utensil for sampling is also essential to prevent any contamination. Finally, any significant change (rancid odor, altered color, abnormal granular texture) should result in the immediate discontinuation of its use, these signs indicating degradation that may trigger skin reactions.