Shea Butter
Shea Butter
Product Description
Product overview
A 100% pure, hexane-free shea butter that delivers rich, deep moisture to condition and soften every skin type. Derived from the nuts of African karité trees, this single-ingredient emollient melts on contact to seal in hydration and protect dry, rough, or chapped skin from head to toe.
Deep Emollient Action
Pure shea butter penetrates skin to deliver long-lasting moisture and seal in hydration, especially on rough patches like elbows, knees, and heels.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDeep Emollient Action
Pure shea butter penetrates skin to deliver long-lasting moisture and seal in hydration, especially on rough patches like elbows, knees, and heels.
Protective Moisture Barrier
Rich in stearic and oleic fatty acids that mimic the skin’s natural lipids, forming a breathable barrier against moisture loss and environmental stressors.
Naturally Rich in Vitamins
Contains naturally occurring vitamins A, E, and F plus antioxidants like catechins that help protect and regenerate skin.
Multi-Purpose Use
Works as a body moisturizer, scalp treatment, lip balm, hand cream, hair mask, and base for DIY skincare formulations.
Safety & compatibility
SAFE100% pure shea butter contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Shea butter contains oleic acid (C18:1), stearic acid (C18:0), palmitic acid (C16:0), and linoleic acid (C18:2) — all fatty acids with C11-C24 chain lengths that can feed Malassezia yeast.
Generally considered non-comedogenic for most skin types. Despite its rich texture, it absorbs well and does not typically clog pores.
Single-ingredient formula with no fragrances, preservatives, dyes, or additives. Naturally hypoallergenic and suitable for reactive skin.
Shea butter is derived from the nuts of the karité tree. Those with tree nut allergies should consult a physician before use.
Can be used alongside retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Apply actives first and seal with shea butter to reduce irritation and lock in treatment.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSButyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter 100%Proven
The sole ingredient in this product. Shea butter is a plant lipid extracted from the fruit of the African Shea Tree (Vitellaria paradoxa). It is one of the most well-researched natural emollients, rich in fatty acids and bioactive compounds.
- Fatty Acid Profile: Oleic acid (40-60%), stearic acid (20-50%), linoleic acid (3-11%), palmitic acid (2-9%)
- Key Bioactives: Vitamins A, E, and F; cinnamic acid (anti-inflammatory); lupeol (skin softening); catechins (antioxidant)
- Clinical Evidence: Studies show shea butter has anti-inflammatory properties comparable to some OTC treatments and may support wound healing
- SPF Note: Provides minimal UV protection (SPF 3-4) but should never replace sunscreen
Oleic Acid (Omega-9) 40-60%Proven
The dominant fatty acid in shea butter. Oleic acid is highly moisturizing, helps repair the skin barrier, and enhances the penetration of other beneficial compounds into the skin.
- Function: Deep moisturizer that mimics the skin’s natural sebum composition
- Benefit: Reduces inflammation and supports wound healing in damaged skin
Stearic Acid 20-50%Proven
A saturated fatty acid that gives shea butter its solid texture at room temperature. It acts as a skin protectant and helps form a moisture-retaining barrier on the skin’s surface.
- Function: Occlusive agent that prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
- Benefit: Strengthens the skin’s lipid barrier and conditions rough, dry patches
1 ingredient
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter (tree nut)
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the last step before sunscreen (AM) or as a final occlusive seal (PM). Best used on slightly damp skin to lock in moisture.
How to use
HOW TO USEScoop & Warm
Take a small pea-sized amount and rub between your palms until it melts into a smooth, spreadable oil. If the butter is very firm, soften the jar in warm water for a few minutes first.
Apply to Skin
Gently massage the melted butter into dry or rough areas — elbows, knees, heels, hands, or anywhere that needs deep hydration. For best results, apply to slightly damp skin after bathing.
Allow to Absorb
Let the butter absorb for 2-5 minutes. It may feel slightly sticky initially but will sink in and leave skin feeling soft and smooth. A little goes a long way.
Optional: Hair & Scalp
Warm a small amount and work through dry ends or massage into scalp as a deep conditioning treatment. Can be used as an overnight hair mask under a silk cap.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have very dry, cracked, or chapped skin
- You need intense moisture for elbows, knees, and heels
- You want a single-ingredient, minimalist moisturizer
- You make DIY skincare products (lotions, balms, soaps)
- You need a natural scalp or hair moisturizer
- You live in a cold, dry climate
- You’re pregnant or nursing and want a safe body butter
- You have eczema-prone or sensitive skin
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You have very oily or acne-prone facial skin
- You prefer lightweight, fast-absorbing textures
- You have a tree nut allergy
- You want a product with added active ingredients
- You dislike the natural nutty scent of shea
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Delivers intense, long-lasting moisture that deeply conditions and heals cracked, flaky skin. Best used on body; can use sparingly on face.
Works well as a body moisturizer. May feel too rich for everyday facial use but excellent for targeted dry spots and cold-weather protection.
Best reserved for body use only. The rich, occlusive texture may add unwanted shine on oily facial skin. Use sparingly on targeted dry patches.
Single-ingredient, fragrance-free, and preservative-free formula is ideal for reactive skin. Contains natural anti-inflammatory compounds. Patch test first.
Low comedogenic rating (0-2) means it’s unlikely to clog pores, but the heavy texture may not suit all acne-prone individuals. Avoid on face if breakout-prone; great for body.
Results timeline
2-3 MONTHSInstant Softness & Protection
Skin feels immediately softer and smoother upon application. The rich butter creates a noticeable moisture barrier that seals in hydration right away.
95% noticed instant softeningVisible Improvement in Dry Patches
Rough, cracked, or flaky areas on elbows, knees, and heels begin to visibly smooth out. Skin texture feels more supple and nourished with consistent daily use.
85% noticed improved textureDeep Conditioning & Skin Repair
Chronic dry patches significantly improve. Skin barrier is strengthened, reducing sensitivity and irritation. Eczema-prone areas may show meaningful calming and healing.
78% noticed lasting hydrationLong-Term Skin Health
With continued use, overall skin elasticity and smoothness improve. Many users report a healthy glow and dramatically reduced dryness even in harsh winter conditions.
70% reported transformed skin conditionRatings by platform
11K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- 100% pure single ingredient with no fillers or additives
- Hexane-free extraction preserves natural benefits
- Extremely effective on dry, cracked, or chapped skin
- Versatile: works on body, lips, hair, scalp, and nails
- Excellent base for DIY skincare recipes and soaps
- Great value for money compared to premium brands
- Mild, natural scent that does not trigger sensitivities
- Trusted brand with GMP certification since 1968
Criticized
- Texture can become grainy or crumbly due to temperature changes
- Takes 2-5 minutes to fully absorb; can feel sticky initially
- Too heavy and occlusive for oily facial skin
- Not suitable for fungal acne (Malassezia) prone skin
- Refined version may lack some nutrients of raw/unrefined shea
- Solid at room temperature — requires warming before application
- Contains tree nut allergen
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESUSDA certified organic and unrefined for maximum nutrient retention. Larger 16oz size gives better value per ounce. Slightly grainier texture but richer in natural vitamins.
More affordable option with raw African shea butter. Contains added fragrance and vitamin E unlike the pure NOW formula. Melts into a non-greasy oil on contact for easier application.
Fair-trade certified organic shea from women’s cooperatives in Ghana. Blended with trace myrrh and frankincense extracts. Richer and thicker consistency; best for very dry or textured hair.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Sky Organics Organic Shea Butter
Storage & shelf life
24 MONTHS24 months after opening. Pure shea butter has an exceptionally long shelf life due to its natural stability and lack of water content.
Store in a cool, dry place after opening. Avoid direct sunlight and excessive heat. Product melts above body temperature and re-solidifies when cool — this is normal.
Screw-top jar with foil seal. Practical and easy to scoop from. Do not microwave the jar directly due to foil seal; transfer desired amount to a microwave-safe container first.
Yes — solid at room temperature so no risk of spilling. Available in 3 oz travel size. Note: may melt in hot checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. NOW Solutions Shea Butter is 100% pure Butyrospermum Parkii Butter with no additives. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is widely considered safe for use during pregnancy as a body moisturizer, stretch mark preventative, and overall skin conditioner.
No. Shea butter is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains oleic acid (C18:1), stearic acid (C18:0), palmitic acid (C16:0), and linoleic acid (C18:2) — all fatty acids with carbon chain lengths between C11 and C24 that Malassezia yeast can feed on. If you have fungal acne or are prone to pityrosporum folliculitis, consider alternatives like squalane oil or MCT oil (without lauric acid) instead.
Yes. Pure shea butter is compatible with all common actives including retinol, vitamin C, AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), and BHAs (salicylic acid). Apply your active treatments first and allow them to absorb, then seal with a thin layer of shea butter as an occlusive. This can actually help reduce irritation from strong actives by reinforcing the skin barrier. However, avoid mixing shea butter directly with water-based serums as they won’t blend well.
NOW Solutions Shea Butter is best suited for dry to very dry skin, sensitive skin, and eczema-prone skin. It excels as a body moisturizer for all skin types. Those with normal skin can use it on targeted dry areas. People with oily or very acne-prone facial skin should limit use to body only, as the heavy texture may feel too occlusive on the face. It is universally excellent for hands, feet, elbows, knees, and lips.
You will feel an immediate difference in skin softness and moisture after the first application. Visible improvement in dry, rough, or cracked skin typically occurs within 1-2 weeks of consistent daily use. Deeper skin conditioning and healing of chronic dry patches, eczema flares, or severely chapped areas may take 4-6 weeks. For long-term skin health benefits, consistent use over 2-3 months is recommended.
Shea butter is an occlusive and should be applied as one of the last steps in your skincare routine. In the morning, apply after your moisturizer and before sunscreen. At night, use it as a final sealing layer over your serums and moisturizer. For body care, apply right after showering on slightly damp skin to lock in maximum hydration. It can also be used as a standalone overnight treatment for extremely dry areas.
Shea butter has a comedogenic rating of 0-2 out of 5, making it generally non-comedogenic and unlikely to clog pores for most people. However, individual reactions vary. Some people with very oily or acne-prone facial skin may experience clogged pores due to its rich, occlusive texture. For facial use, it is recommended to patch test first. For body use, shea butter is considered safe for virtually all skin types.
NOW Solutions Shea Butter has a shelf life of approximately 24 months after opening when stored properly. Because it is 100% pure fat with no water content, it is naturally resistant to bacterial growth and spoilage. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The butter may change texture if exposed to temperature fluctuations (melting and re-solidifying can cause a grainy appearance), but this does not affect product quality or safety.
Verdict: NOW Solutions Shea Butter is a reliable, no-frills, single-ingredient moisturizer that delivers exactly what it promises — deep, lasting hydration for dry and rough skin. Its 100% pure, hexane-free formula backed by GMP certification makes it a trustworthy choice at an affordable price point. It excels as a body butter, lip balm, hair treatment, and DIY base. The main drawbacks are its heavy texture (not ideal for oily facial skin), susceptibility to grainy texture from temperature changes, and it is not fungal acne safe. For anyone seeking a pure, versatile, and budget-friendly shea butter from a trusted American brand, this is an excellent pick.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Butyrospermum Parkii Butter
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|