Shea & Mafura Butter for Hair & Skin: Benefits & How to Use
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Rich plant butters like shea and mafura are among the best natural moisturisers for dry skin and hair. Here's why people love them, what the research shows, and how to use them.
Why do people use shea & mafura butter?
- Deep, lasting moisture: rich in fatty acids that soften skin and condition hair.
- Barrier support: helps seal in hydration and protect against dryness.
- Soothing: popular for dry, flaky or sensitive skin and for taming frizzy ends.
- Versatile: body butter, hair mask, beard balm, cuticle and heel care.
What the research says
Shea butter in particular is well studied (general information, not medical advice):
- Shea is rich in triterpenes (such as lupeol and amyrins) that lab and cell studies link to anti-inflammatory activity — one reason it feels soothing on irritated skin.
- Clinical work shows shea butter measurably improves skin hydration and reduces water loss, supporting the skin barrier.
- Mafura butter (from the mafura tree) is a traditional Southern African moisturiser, prized for its rich, deeply conditioning feel on hair and skin; it's used much like shea.
How to use them
- Skin: warm a little between fingers and massage into dry areas — elbows, heels, hands.
- Hair: smooth a small amount through damp ends, or use as a pre-wash mask.
- A little goes a long way — these are rich butters.
Our butters
- NaturalLife Refined Shea Butter — smooth, easy to apply.
- Natural Stuff Refined Shea Butter (500ml–1L) — value sizes.
- NaturalLife Organic Mafura Butter — deeply moisturising for hair & skin.
FAQ
Refined or raw? Refined is smoother and milder in scent; both moisturise well.
Will it feel greasy? Use small amounts; they absorb as you massage in.
Shea or mafura? Shea is a versatile all-rounder; mafura is extra-rich for very dry hair and skin.
References & further reading
- Akihisa T. et al. Anti-inflammatory and chemopreventive effects of triterpene cinnamates and acetates from shea fat. 2010. Read
- Shea Butter Extract for Bioactive Skin Care. Cosmetics & Toiletries. Read
This article is for general information only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. For external use.