Shea butter is the ivory-coloured fat extracted from the nut of the vitellaria tree (Vitellaria Paradoxa or Butyrospermum parkii), which is native to Africa, and more specifically the Sahel region. To obtain the butter, the nuts are dried and crushed before being roasted and pressed into a silky liquor. This is then whipped and kneaded in large pans until fat forms on top.

- Moisturising and emollient, it helps soften the skin.
- Conditions the hair and skin, making them feel smooth to the touch.
- Contains oleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid that is compatible with the skin’s natural sebum and allows the butter to be easily absorbed into the skin.

The butter contains stearic acid, a skin-softening fatty acid that acts as an emulsifier. This means that it helps bind oil and water together, preventing products from separating. Combined with the solid nature of the butter, this emulsifying property helps create stable emulsions, supporting product stability and helping them remain fresh for longer, which may reduce the need for additional preservatives.