Shea oil and shea butter are popular ingredients in the skincare industry due to their moisturizing properties. But how are these two shea products similar and how do they differ?
The main difference between shea oil and shea butter is that shea oil is a by-product of shea butter extraction. Shea butter is made from the kernels of shea tree seeds, and when the butter is melted the oil is removed to produce shea oil as a separate product and prevent the shea butter from being too oily. While shea butter and shea oil come from the same source, they are different in texture and the benefits they provide to the skin.
Want to know more about shea butter and shea oil? Great, because I’ve got all the details below!
Similarities and differences between shea oil and shea butter
I’ve broken down the similarities and differences between shea oil and shea butter in the following table, as well as explained these in some more depth in the below section. Take a look!
Similarities | Differences |
Moisturizing benefits | Shea oil is higher in linoleic acid which helps the skin to better retain moisture |
Both offer anti-inflammatory benefits | Shea butter has a nutty scent, while shea oil is generally unscented |
Usable on sensitive skin | Shea butter can be hard in texture particularly when temperatures are lower, which can make it more tricky to apply than shea oil |
Similarities
Shea butter and shea oil share many properties as they are both derived from the seeds of the shea tree. This makes them similar in a number of ways, predominantly in their moisturizing properties.
Both these products are particularly good for soothing dry skin, and can even be used to soothe skin conditions such as eczema, cracked heels, or damaged skin.
They are both suitable for sensitive skin types, while also providing anti-inflammatory benefits.
Differences
The key differences between shea oil and shea butter are in their texture. As one is an oil and one is a butter, they provide different benefits and may lead to you preferring one to the other.
For example, shea oil tends to be more moisturizing and better for dry skin types as it contains higher levels of linoleic acid. This allows the skin to retain moisture better, and instantly sinks into the skin without leaving a greasy residue.
While shea butter is still very moisturizing, it won’t be as effective at allowing the skin to retain moisture. It can also be a little more tricky to apply in cooler climates, as it can go hard in consistency when the temperature is lower.
Another main difference between the two is that shea butter has a pungent nutty scent, while shea oil is generally unscented. While some people like the aroma of shea butter, it’s not for everyone, so shea oil may be a good alternative is you prefer your skincare products to be unscented.
Best skin types for shea oil and shea butter
I’ve detailed below some information on which skin types are best suited to shea oil and shea butter. This should help you to decide which product is best for your skin!
Shea oil
Shea oil is fantastic for dryer skin types (mine included), helping to add moisture to the skin and encouraging the skin to retain moisture better.
Surprisingly, it’s also very beneficial for oily skin as it can help to balance sebum production thereby preventing excess oil building up in the skin. This can lead to a clearer complexion by reducing the chance of clogged pores and break-outs.
Shea butter
Shea butter is also beneficial for oily skin types as it helps to balance sebum production, as with shea oil.
It can be used to soothe dry skin; however, shea oil is more effective at providing longer-term benefits to dry skin by helping it to retain moisture. One of my favorite ways to soothe dry skin is using shea butter in this homemade body butter.
Shea butter can be both white or yellow in color – here’s a helpful guide on the differences between white shea butter and yellow shea butter.
FAQ
Here are a few quick-fire frequently asked questions to help you better understand the differences between shea oil and shea butter.
The primary use of shea oil is to provide moisturizing benefits to the skin. It is naturally high in fatty acids which helps it to moisturize the skin, and it also contains high levels of linoleic acid which allows the skin to retain moisture.
Shea butter can be used in the hair as well as on the skin, however, it is a very heavy product and can cause product build-up in the hair if over-used. It can also cause a barrier between your hair shaft and water, which can cause your hair to be greasy.
Another use for shea butter is as an ingredient in natural deodorant. Do your bit for the environment and try making this homemade deodorant recipe!
The best way of using shea oil is to warm up the product in your fingers and apply it directly to the skin or hair. It can be used all over the body, including on the face and lips, plus it’s beneficial for dry skin on your feet, elbows, and knees.
Shea butter and shea oil are suitable for practically all skin types, however, you should avoid using either of these products if you have a tree nut allergy. I’d also recommend avoiding shea butter if you have a latex allergy, as raw shea butter does generally contain latex.
Shea is a key ingredient in many anti-aging products as it contains high levels of antioxidants. These are vital anti-aging ingredients as they help to protect skin cells and prevent dull-looking skin. Shea also helps to stimulate collagen production to help add plumpness to the skin and reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles.
If you’re concerned about aging and are looking for a new body butter, try making this whipped body butter recipe at home – one of the key ingredients is shea butter which will help to improve the appearance of your skin!
Leave a Comment