emollientsRaw Unrefined Butter

Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter

Shea Butter

emollientskin protectantviscosity modifier

INCI Name

Butyrospermum Parkii...

Functions

3 Roles

Sustainability

8/10

Category

emollients

What It Does

Butyrospermum Parkii Butter is a natural fat extracted from the nuts of the African shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa), traditionally harvested in West Africa. Rich in stearic and oleic acids along with unsaponifiable compounds including triterpenes and tocopherols, refined shea butter provides exceptional skin barrier repair and long-lasting moisturization with a characteristic smooth, non-greasy feel. Formulators prize it for its ability to add luxurious texture to creams and balms while delivering both immediate slip and sustained occlusive protection, with the refined variant offering neutral color and minimal odor for versatile formulation applications.

Softens and smooths skin texture
Creates protective moisture barrier
Improves product feel and glide
Reduces transepidermal water loss

Technical Properties

Ionic Charge

nonionic

Molecular charge type

Viscosity Effect

thickening

Impact on formula thickness

Ingredient Compatibility

Works Well With

nonionic emulsifiersoils and waxessiliconesmost emollientshumectantslipophilic actives

Avoid Combining

strong oxidizershighly acidic ingredients below pH 3
Compatibility analysis powered by OpenMix — open-source formulation science

Sustainability Profile

Sustainability Score

8/10

Biodegradability

readily biodegradable

Source

plant-derived

Feedstock

Vitellaria paradoxa tree nuts from West African savannas

Available Variants

7 forms available

Raw Unrefined Butter

Refined Butter

Refined Butter, Cosmetic Grade

Refined Butter, White

Refined, White to Off-White Solid

Soft Solid/Butter

Standard

Quick Reference

Full INCI Name
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Common Name
Shea Butter
Category
emollients

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