Shea Butter 20% Body Moisturizer

• Skin Type: Dry, very dry, sensitive, and normal skin
• Concerns: Dryness, flakiness, rough texture, tightness, compromised skin barrier
• Suitable for: Individuals needing intense moisturization to alleviate dry, flaky skin and improve skin softness and comfort

• Size: 50 ml
• Fragrance-free
• Dermatologically tested
• Hypoallergenic
• Non-comedogenic
• Suitable for daily use, morning and night
• pH-balanced formula

• Shea Butter (20%): Deeply nourishes and hydrates dry skin.
• Jojoba Oil (5%): Moisturizes without clogging pores.
• Glycerin (10%): Retains moisture and softens skin.
• Vitamin E (2%): Protects skin from free radicals.
• Aloe Vera (3%): Soothes and calms the skin.

The Shea Butter Moisturizer is meticulously formulated to deliver intense hydration and nourishment to dry, flaky skin through a synergistic blend of emollients, humectants, and antioxidants. This section provides a detailed scientific explanation of how each ingredient contributes to skin health at a molecular level.

Shea Butter (20%): Extracted from the nuts of the Vitellaria paradoxa tree, Shea Butter is rich in triglycerides composed primarily of stearic acid and oleic acid, along with unsaponifiable fractions containing triterpenes, phenolic compounds, and tocopherols. The high concentration of fatty acids replenishes the lipid content of the stratum corneum, enhancing barrier function and reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL). The triglycerides fill the intercellular spaces between corneocytes, providing occlusive properties that trap moisture within the skin. Unsaponifiable components like lupeol and karitenes exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities by inhibiting the cyclooxygenase (COX) pathway and scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS), respectively. This reduces inflammation and protects skin cells from oxidative stress.

Jojoba Oil (5%): Derived from the seeds of the Simmondsia chinensis plant, Jojoba Oil is technically a liquid wax ester composed of long-chain monounsaturated fatty acids and alcohols. Its molecular structure closely resembles human sebum, allowing it to integrate seamlessly into the skin's lipid matrix without clogging pores (non-comedogenic). Jojoba Oil enhances barrier function by replenishing lipids and providing emollient properties. It also contains tocopherols and phenolic compounds that contribute antioxidant benefits, protecting skin lipids from peroxidation.

Glycerin (10%): A trihydroxy alcohol, Glycerin is a potent humectant due to its ability to form hydrogen bonds with water molecules. It facilitates water transport from the dermis to the epidermis via aquaporin-3 (AQP3) channels in keratinocyte membranes. By increasing hydration in the stratum corneum, Glycerin enhances skin elasticity and barrier function. It also stabilizes lipid bilayers within the intercellular matrix, further reducing TEWL and preventing dryness.

Vitamin E (2%): Tocopherol, the most biologically active form of Vitamin E, is a lipid-soluble antioxidant that localizes within cell membranes. It neutralizes lipid peroxyl radicals by donating a hydrogen atom from its hydroxyl group, terminating lipid peroxidation chain reactions. This protects membrane lipids from oxidative degradation, preserving cellular integrity. Vitamin E also has anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory mediators like prostaglandin E2 (PGE2).

Aloe Vera (3%): Aloe barbadensis leaf extract contains over 75 active constituents, including polysaccharides (e.g., acemannan), glycoproteins, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Acemannan exhibits immunomodulatory effects by stimulating macrophage activity and promoting the release of growth factors such as transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β). This enhances fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis, aiding in skin repair. Aloe Vera also inhibits the bradykinin pathway, reducing pain and inflammation, and provides soothing effects to irritated skin.

By combining these scientifically validated ingredients, the Shea Butter Moisturizer addresses skin dryness and flakiness through multiple mechanisms:

• Intense Hydration: High concentrations of Shea Butter and Glycerin provide both occlusive and humectant properties, trapping moisture within the skin and attracting water to the stratum corneum.
• Barrier Repair: The replenishment of lipids by Shea Butter and Jojoba Oil restores the integrity of the skin barrier, reducing TEWL and protecting against environmental aggressors.
• Antioxidant Protection: Vitamin E and the antioxidant components of Shea Butter and Jojoba Oil protect skin cells from oxidative stress, preventing premature aging and promoting overall skin health.
• Soothing and Calming: Aloe Vera provides anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, reducing redness and irritation associated with dry, flaky skin.

This comprehensive approach results in improved skin hydration, reduced dryness and flakiness, and a softer, smoother skin texture.

• Aqua (Water): Base solvent; hydrates and dissolves other ingredients.
• Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter (20%): Rich in triglycerides and unsaponifiable compounds; provides occlusive and emollient properties, deeply nourishes the skin, and reduces TEWL.
• Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil (5%): Liquid wax ester; moisturizes without clogging pores, replenishes skin lipids, and enhances barrier function.
• Glycerin (10%): Humectant; attracts moisture to the skin, enhancing hydration and softness.
• Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract (3%): Contains acemannan; soothes irritation, hydrates, and promotes skin healing.
• Tocopherol (Vitamin E) (2%): Lipid-soluble antioxidant; neutralizes free radicals and protects the skin from oxidative stress.
• Cetearyl Alcohol: Fatty alcohol; acts as an emulsifier and emollient, providing creamy texture and stabilizing the formulation.
• Glyceryl Stearate SE: Emulsifying agent; helps blend oil and water phases and enhances skin softness.
• Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride: Emollient derived from coconut oil and glycerin; provides a lightweight feel and improves skin barrier.
• Sodium Hyaluronate: Salt form of Hyaluronic Acid; hydrates and plumps the skin by retaining moisture.
• Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5): Converts to pantothenic acid in the skin; moisturizes, soothes, and aids in barrier repair.
• Allantoin: Diureide of glyoxylic acid; promotes cell proliferation, soothes irritation, and improves skin smoothness.
• Phenoxyethanol: Broad-spectrum preservative; ensures product safety by preventing microbial growth.
• Ethylhexylglycerin: Preservative enhancer and skin conditioning agent; boosts the efficacy of phenoxyethanol and improves skin feel.
• Carbomer: High molecular weight polymer; acts as a thickening agent to achieve the desired texture.
• Triethanolamine (TEA): pH adjuster; neutralizes carbomer and stabilizes the formulation.
• Disodium EDTA: Chelating agent; binds metal ions to improve product stability and efficacy.
• Fragrance-Free: No added fragrances to reduce the risk of irritation, suitable for sensitive skin.

After cleansing and toning, apply a generous amount of the moisturizer to the face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Gently massage in upward, circular motions until fully absorbed. Use twice daily, morning and night. For extremely dry areas, reapply as needed throughout the day.

Is the Shea Butter Moisturizer suitable for extremely dry skin?

Yes, the high concentration of Shea Butter and Glycerin provides intense hydration and nourishment, making it ideal for extremely dry and flaky skin.

Can I use this moisturizer if I have sensitive skin?

Absolutely. The moisturizer is formulated to be gentle, fragrance-free, and contains soothing ingredients like Aloe Vera and Allantoin, suitable for sensitive skin types.

Will this moisturizer leave a greasy residue?

While the moisturizer is rich, it is designed to absorb effectively into the skin without leaving a heavy or greasy feel. Jojoba Oil and Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride help ensure a pleasant skin feel.

Can I use this moisturizer under makeup?

Yes, the moisturizer provides a smooth base for makeup application and helps keep the skin hydrated throughout the day.

Is this product safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

The moisturizer contains gentle, skin-friendly ingredients. However, it's advisable to consult your healthcare provider before introducing new skincare products during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Does this moisturizer help with fine lines caused by dryness?

By deeply hydrating the skin and improving elasticity, the moisturizer can help reduce the appearance of fine lines associated with dryness.

Is the Shea Butter Moisturizer vegan and cruelty-free?

Yes, the product is formulated without animal-derived ingredients and is not tested on animals.

How should I store the moisturizer to maintain its effectiveness?

Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve the stability of the active ingredients.

Can men use this moisturizer?

Absolutely. The moisturizer is suitable for all genders and is especially beneficial for anyone experiencing dry or flaky skin.

Does the product contain parabens, sulfates, or phthalates?

No, the Shea Butter Moisturizer is free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and artificial fragrances, reducing the risk of irritation.