Best For Skin Types
All, Dry, Sensitive, Mature
Addresses
Usage Frequency
Daily
What Is Butyrospermum Parkii Oil?
Butyrospermum parkii oil is extracted from the shea tree, native to West Africa. It's a rich, natural oil composed of fatty acids and other lipids that work to condition and soften the skin.
In skincare formulations, it functions primarily as an emollient—a substance that helps fill gaps in the skin barrier and seal in moisture. It's typically used in small concentrations and is found in roughly 0.3% of skincare products on the market.
Benefits for Your Skin
How It Works
Shea oil works by depositing fatty acids and lipids onto the skin's surface. These molecules sit within the stratum corneum (the outermost layer) and fill spaces between skin cells, reducing water loss and creating a protective seal.
Unlike humectants—which draw water into the skin—shea oil is an occlusive ingredient. This means it prevents existing moisture from evaporating rather than adding new hydration.
Clinical Evidence & References
Research supports the safety of shea-derived ingredients when used at standard concentrations and formulated to minimise sensitisation. An expert panel review concluded these ingredients are safe in current cosmetic practices.
Limited evidence suggests shea oil may support skin barrier function and wound healing when combined with other active ingredients, though most available studies assess it as part of multi-ingredient formulations rather than in isolation. Its effectiveness is best understood within the context of a complete skincare routine.
Published Research
How to Use
Shea oil is most effective when applied to damp skin, as this helps lock in moisture. In lightweight formulations it can be used daily; in richer products, frequency may depend on your skin's tolerance and the season. Layer it under a hydrating serum for added benefit, or use it as the final step in your routine if your skin needs extra nourishment.
Safety & Precautions
Frequently Asked Questions
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Butyrospermum Parkii Oil is a variant of Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Extract, the form you will most often see on an ingredients list.
Butyrosperum parkii butter extract is a skin care ingredient
Related Ingredients
Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Extract
Butyrosperum parkii butter extract is a skin care ingredient
Butyrospermum Parkii Nut Extract
A plant-derived emollient that helps support skin's moisture barrier
Butyloctyl Palmitate
A lightweight ester that softens and conditions without heaviness
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Unsaponifiables
Helps prevent moisture loss Visibly repairs dry, compromised skin and lips
C10-18 Triglycerides
A plant-derived emollient that softens and conditions the skin barrier
C10-30 Cholesterol/Lanosterol Esters
A complex mixture of fatty acids from lanolin and cholesterol Conditions skin
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