How to Make All Natural Shea Butter
Shea butter is derived from the nut of the karite tree, also referred to as the mangifolia tree, which is native to Central and Western Africa. Obtaining shea butter is a grueling process, and African women work long and hard to collect the karite nuts and to remove the inner, fleshy portion. This fruit is then squeezed to remove the shea butter. Considered an African beauty secret, shea butter is prized for its ability to moisturize, promote circulation and soften skin when added when added to cosmetics and facial products. Here's how to convert shea butter from the store into an all-natural beauty product. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- 1 lb. shea butter
- Saucepan
- 1 oz. grapeseed oil
- Spoon
- Mixing bowl
- Handheld electric mixer
- Refrigerator
- Air-tight storage container
- 1 tsp. essential oil (optional)
Instructions
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1
Place the shea butter into the saucepan and heat slowly on low heat until melted, stirring occasionally. Be careful not to burn the butter.
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2
Add the grapeseed oil and mix well.
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3
Pour the mixture into a bowl. Using a handheld mixer, whip the butter on high speed for four minutes. Let it sit for two minutes. Repeat this process for 20 minutes.
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4
Pour the finished product into an airtight storage container and refrigerate until it has completely cooled.
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5
Remove the container from the refrigerator and store in a cool, dry place.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Add essential oils to the mixture between Steps 3 and 4 for added fragrance. Blend the oil with the butter for 30 seconds.
Buying shea butter from a fair trade retailer ensures that the African women who make the product are fairly compensated.
Glass storage containers work best for shea butter because plastics tend to leech chemicals into the contents of the container.
Although the benefits to your skin will be the same, using an upright blender will not produce the same creamy, whipped result as using a handheld mixer.
Pure essential oils, such as peppermint or tea tree, can be highly irritating when applied to the skin. Dab a small amount of oil on your forearm to test for allergies prior to adding it to the shea butter.
