Shea butter

Also known as Butyrospermum parkii

AEVIDENCE

A meal for skin, not a beverage. Dense on purpose.

The honest take

The opposite of a gimmick. Shea is dense, boring, and works — for elbows, knees, tattoos, and every zone that takes friction, a little raw shea outperforms most engineered lotions.

What it is

Raw, unrefined fat pressed from the African shea tree nut — a heavyweight emollient that's been conditioning skin for centuries.

How it works

A blend of fatty acids and vitamins forms an occlusive, softening layer that slows water loss and leaves skin supple.

What it does

Deeply softens and conditions dry, high-friction skin and helps the surface hold moisture.

Who it's for

Dry, hard-used body skin; anyone with tattoos or high-friction zones to keep supple.

How to use it

Warm a small amount between the palms and press into dry zones nightly, or after mask and scrub days. A little covers a lot.

What to expect

Immediately softer, more supple skin; over time, dry patches that behave.

The research

Shea is well-documented as an occlusive emollient rich in fatty acids; strong evidence for softening and moisture retention.

Read the labelTree-nut derived — skip it if nuts are a problem. External use only. Rich; a little is plenty.

Evidence grades describe how well an ingredient is studied — A well-supported, C emerging — not a promise of results. Educational, not medical advice. Doses are typical ranges; follow the label on the product.