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.

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

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

The shea butter (INCI name: Butyrospermum Parkii Butter) used in our products is sourced from fruits harvested in Burkina Faso. The refining process is then carried out in Europe, following methods approved by organic certifications.

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

Here are the main fatty acids present in shea butter.

• 40 to 50% oleic acid or omega-9.

  This monounsaturated fatty acid is a lipid that is part of the composition of sebum, a substance naturally secreted by the body to counteract the dryness of the skin and hair. It stimulates the production of sebum by the sebaceous glands. Sweet almond vegetable oil is thusrelipidating, it is recommended for taking care ofdry and dehydrated skin and hair.

• 36 to 50% of 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 skincare, stearic acid is recognized for its emollient, nourishing, and protective (film-forming) properties.

• 4 to 8% of linoleic acid oromega-6.

  This category of fatty acids is referred to asessentialbecause they are not synthesized by the body. Omega-6 fatty acids contribute to the process of cell renewal. When applied topically, they help combat signs of aging and promote wound healing. They also soothe inflammatory reactions and are beneficial for sensitive skin, suffering from tightness and irritation.

• 3 to 8% of palmitic acid.

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

The unsaponifiable content is at a minimum of 4%. This remarkable content of unsaponifiables (tocopherols, phytosterols, triterpenes, kariten...) gives it great penetration properties. It is a natural thickener for oil phases.

• Tocopherols are natural antioxidants known for their action against cellular oxidation. Thanks to their free radical scavenging properties, Vitamin E protects the skin from environmental aggressors, such as UV rays and chemical pollution. Tocopherols are reputed to have anti-inflammatory properties and to reduce premature skin aging.

• Phytosterols and triterpenes (cinnamic acid, butyrospermol, lupeol, alpha and beta-amyrin) possess UV protection properties, making shea butter a good ingredient to enhance the SPF of sun care products.

• Sterols also have an anti-inflammatory effect by acting as free radical scavengers, much like tocopherols. They also enhance smoothness, increase hydration, and improve the skin's elasticity.

• YAMEOGO F. & al. The benefits of shea butter for rural populations, communities, and countries. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (2005).

• Pharmacy thesis by Marie AMOUGOU. Study on the hydrating effect of shea butter and Ergan oil (2009).

• POBEDA M. The Benefits of Vegetable Oils: Learning to Know and Use Them for Your Health and Beauty. Paperback (2011).