Shea to the Rescue! -
By: Elisa Dobbins -
 In honor of Black History Month, African Shea Butter is the ingredient to embrace this month! Shea butter has properties that benefit both hair and skin (and is commonly used in food preparation) and should be a “go to” ingredient in your hair repertoire.
Found in Africa, shea butter is the natural fat extracted from the seed or nut of the African shea tree, also known as Butyrospermum parkii, Vitellaria, or Karité. The color of shea butter varies depending on the color of the actual nut, but is usually between a slightly yellowish and ivory color, and has a nutty aroma. To extract the fat, the shea butter nut is boiled, crushed, and then left to set in its solid state.
There are three types of extractions…
Unrefined: Unrefined/raw shea butter is extracted using water, which was described previously.
Refined: Refined shea butter is processed and still contains most of its natural components and benefits.
Highly-refined: Highly refined shea butter is extracted with solvents, and not as desirable for skin and hair.
African shea butter is graded as well – A through E – and that corresponds to the types of extractions. To reap the benefits of the vitamins and natural properties of shea butter, aim to purchase the higher graded product, such as grade A or B.
As we know, the harsh cold winter weather really wreaks havoc on natural coils. Heavy products that promise to moisturize also weigh down hair, so African shea butter is a great alternative. Shea butter will repair damage as well as protect against the elements. In its solid form, shea butter can be used as a moisturizer for both hair and your skin. When you rub shea butter between your hands, it instantly softens and will easily melts into hair.
For a great shea butter treatment, apply shea butter generously to your hair and scalp and wrap your hair with a warm towel for 30 minutes, then style as usual. Your hair will instantly feel soft and moisturized and have a brilliant sheen!
For those of you who enjoy making oil concoctions, melt shea butter and mix with olive oil and your favorite essential oil (the mix should contain roughly ¼ shea butter). Pour the mix into a jar. Due to the addition of olive oil, the shea butter will be softer in its solid state.
Buyers beware! Companies are starting to catch on to the benefits of shea butter, but be careful before purchasing products. Highly refined shea butter or products containing many other ingredients will not be as effective. Try pure African shea butter or products in which shea butter is the prominent ingredient (closer to the beginning of the ingredient list).
February 1, 2010
|
