Unrefined Shea Butter

Unrefined shea butter is rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals, and is widely known as an effective skin moisturizer and healer. My family has used shea butter for years with excellent results. Some shea I’ve used was worthless, so make sure you buy fresh, unrefined shea from a reputable company. Unrefined shea butter has a shelf life of 12 to 24 months, but it should be stored in a cool place away from direct sunlight.

Reduce redness and calm irritated skin

Melt a small amount of unrefined shea in the microwave for a few seconds (it should be warm, not hot). Gently apply the oil to the affected areas every four to six hours until the redness and irritation subsides. This works great for razor and sun burn, eczema, diaper rash, contact dermatitis, and other painful, irritating skin conditions.

Clear up pimples and reduce acne scarring

My daughter decided to give unrefined shea butter a try because most over-the-counter acne medications dried her face out. Within a few weeks her face cleared up dramatically. Start by washing your face with a mild soap (like Dove) then melt a small amount of shea butter in the palms of your hands. Gently rub the warmed shea into your skin, covering the entire face and neck. Dab off any excess with a tissue.

Fade brown age spots and freckles

Not only is unrefined shea butter a great moisturizer, it also fades brown spots and heals sun damage. Apply a thin layer of shea in the morning under your makeup and at night before bed. It may take a month or so to fade the spots, but they will become lighter in time. Also, leathery skin from sun damage will become softer and smoother with continued use.

Use unrefined shea butter as a massage oil

The texture of melted shea makes it perfect for a massage. Its lubricating action lasts longer than most massage oils, and it absorbs quickly leaving skin soft and smooth. Also, the strong anti-inflammatory agents in unrefined shea help relieve sore muscles and ease joint pain. Melt a few tablespoons of shea butter in the microwave for a few seconds (never overheat shea because it will lose some of its healing properties), and if desired add a drop or two of your favorite essential oil. Use the mixture as you would a commercial massage oil.

Get rid of callouses and cracked, dry feet

Unrefined shea butter is great for softening callouses and dry cracked skin on your feet. Melt a tablespoon of shea butter in a bowl of warm water then soak your feet in the water for ten minutes or so. Dry your feet, then rub a generous amount of shea butter on them paying close attention to the heels and other calloused, dry areas. Put on a pair of clean cotton socks and sleep in them overnight. Do this at least once each week to keep your feet soft and supple.

Sources:
Agbanga Karite: Unrefined Shea Butter Storage