Can Shea Butter Be Used As Sunscreen?

Shea butter has some natural sun protection properties. Still, it is not strong enough to be used as a standalone sunscreen. The natural SPF of shea butter is estimated to be between 6 and 10, which is insufficient to protect the skin from the harmful effects of the sun. It is always essential to use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 when you are going to be exposed to the sun, especially during the peak hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is also a good idea to reapply sunscreen every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating. Shea butter is not waterproof, meaning it will wash off when exposed to water.

Sunscreen Application

Sunscreen Properties of Shea Butter

Studies suggest that shea butter possesses properties that may help protect the skin from sun damage when applied topically. It contains cinnamic acid, which acts as an ultraviolet radiation absorber with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 6 to 10. However, it is important to note that this rating is lower than what’s considered optimal for protecting skin from sunburns.

Risks of Using Shea Butter as Sunscreen

There are several risks associated with using shea butter as a sunscreen. First and foremost, it does not provide adequate protection against the sun’s UV rays, which can cause sunburn, skin aging, and skin cancer. Second, shea butter may not effectively block UVA rays, which are responsible for skin aging and can penetrate deep into the skin. Finally, shea butter may not be water-resistant, so it may not provide protection when swimming or sweating. read more

Will Shea Butter Cause Acne?

According to some sources, shea butter can lead to acne breakouts. Shea butter is a popular ingredient in many soaps and lotions because of its moisturizing properties. The fat in this natural remedy can block pores and trap bacteria and oils on the skin, which may cause oily acne breakouts.

Will shea butter cause acne?

Many people think that using shea butter on their skin is the best idea, but actually, it’s not. This natural skin cream is excellent for dry skin or sensitive skin. However, if you have oily skin or acne-prone skin, it’s best to use shea butter sparingly as too much of this ingredient could worsen your acne.

Nevertheless, shea butter has a high concentration of fatty acids and vitamins A & E. These shea butter components are beneficial in treating many different types of skin problems: eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, rosacea, sunburn, stretch marks, wrinkles, scars, burns, cuts, bruises, and insect bites. read more

What is Shea Butter?

Shea Butter and nuts
Shea butter and nuts

No doubt, you’ve heard about shea butter and its benefits (or maybe not, then read on).

But what is shea butter, exactly?

Shea Tree

Shea butter is a thick and chunky substance extracted from fruit nuts of a savannah-grown tree named Vitellaria paradoxa or shea tree.

Shea butter is a moisturizing and restorative agent derived from the nut of the shea tree. A robust and natural alternative to petroleum-based products, Shea butter, can be used in skin creams and lotions for all skin types. It is also an excellent emollient in soap making and is often used as an ingredient in shampoo and conditioner. It is also a good treatment for eczema and psoriasis. read more