Shea Butter
August 17, 2009 by Jo
Shea butter is commonly used in mosturisers and is classed as an emollient, that is it has moisturising properties.
Often it is the active ingredients that have been tested in a moisturiser and not the emollients. However, Swedish company has tested the moisturising power of Shea Butter and mineral oil.
AAK’s researchers simulated daily washing by treating the skin of volunteers with ethanol. This caused an increase in trans epidermal water loss, Daily washing can remove skin lipids and therefore disturb functionality and stress the skin.
Researchers found that the application of Shea Butter saw the moisture levels return to basement levels two hours after application. After three to four hours the barrier properties of the skin were found to be better than pre treatment levels.
The mineral oil was unable to match the Shea Butter with starting values not being regained and slower recovery.
Shea Butter is derived from shea kernels found on a Shea tree and so is also called Shea Nut Butter. The fruit resemble large plums and although it takes 20 years for the fruit to appear, a Shea tree can go on producing fruit for 200 years! Shea is a natural emollient and edible as well.
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