Shea butter is rich in nutrients which are good for itchy and flaky scalp. Also, the moisturising properties of shea butter help in getting silky, smooth and frizz free hair. However, it will not grow new hair but make the quality of existing hair good and strong.
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African Shea Butter
Will you believe me when I say there is a natural product out there that has a solution to all your hair-related issues? I’m talking about creamy, buttery shea butter- the best friend to your hair.
Exceptionally rich in fatty acid content, shea butter is everything you need to give your hair a new life. Be it scalp irritation, hair fall, frizziness, split ends, and dry hair this pale and soft textured jewel can cut down all your concerns to a greater extent.
To give you a better idea about what shea butter does to your hair I have compiled all the necessary information in this article.
Just sit back, read and enjoy!
Best Shea Hair Products
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Shea Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner Set, Curly Hair Products with Coconut Oil, Vitamin E & Neem Oil |
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 | Shea Moisture Curly Hair Product Bundle Shampoo & Conditioner Jamaican Black Castor Oil for Healthy Hair Growth, Strengthen & Restore |
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 | Shea Moisture Manuka Honey & Yogurt Hydrate + Repair Combo Kit,. |
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 | SheaMoisture SilconeFree Shampoo for Wavy Hair and Hibiscus ParabenFree Shampoo |
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6 Wonders of shea butter for hair
If you are not familiar with what shea butter is capable of then this article is for you.
Read further because I can bet, you will be surprised at how much you are missing out.
1. Hair growth and volume
Hair thinning and falling is the first concern people share when we ask them. It happens due to various reasons like aging, poor diet, and heredity. Baldness or hair fall is an extremely traumatizing episode for any reason.
Shea butter on the other hand promotes regeneration, strengthens follicles, boosts collagen, and brings back hair volume. Using shea butter oils or direct application may help minimize these issues instantly.
2. Smoothing and moisturizing
Once upon a time, there was a phase when nothing helped my dry, dull, and frizzy hair. But then shea butter came to the rescue.
Shea butter not only lessens frizz but its high content of fatty acid also locks hair moisture and keeps the hair hydrated and shiny for up to 8-12 hours.
With its ultra-moisturizing properties, shea is also beneficial for people with curly and dense hair as it provides nourishment and texture upon regular use.
Fun fact: studies show that shea butter is great for people struggling with eczema.
3. UV protection
The result of global warming is extreme weather, which is not healthy for our skin and hair at all.
Shea butter has damage protection properties that help our hair regain its healthy state. It forms a shielding coat on hair and resists environmental damage actively.
4. Bye-bye split ends
Imagine your outfit is top-notch and makeup on fleek but your hair… dead and dry. Ughh it hurts alot!
To save you from this horrible situation I got you covered. When nothing works for split ends, move towards shea butter. Trust me it works. This creamy magical blend will cut down the chances of split ends to a greater extent.
Fun fact: shea butter is user-friendly and it works great on all hair types be it dry, flaky, colored, straight or curly.
5. Fights dandruff
Dandruff and flaky hair got you down? Reach to shea butter.
Its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties will help you get rid of flaky scalp. An expert suggests the use of shea oil as it aids antioxidant properties that protect the scalp from direct sunlight and dandruff.
6. Reduces scalp irritation
If you are dealing with scalp irritation and redness, inflammation might be a reason. I’ve been a victim of constant scalp itching. It becomes worse when people think it’s due to poor hygiene. But shea butter saved me from this awkwardness as its anti-inflammatory benefit gives relief instantly and heals the scalp without clogging pores.
It is advised to part your hair in small sections and then apply some shea butter on the roots. This method helps in absorbing shea butter to the scalp without disturbing hair follicles and pores.
Know your hair type when using shea hair products
The raw and unrefined shea butter is everything you need for your hair. There are various over-the-counter products available be it conditioner or hair marks that have a rich amount of shea butter in them. Before jumping to the products make sure you are aware of your hair type.
Mainly, shea butter products come in 2 forms (oil and butter).
People with thin and greasy hair are advised to utilize butter-formulated products.
Whereas,people with damaged and dead hair are suggested to go for oil-based styling products.
How to use shea butter for hair
As now you are well aware of shea butter’s magic and hair considerations let’s move forward with its application.
Let me tell you straight, rinse-out products are better than leave-in products.This is the reason you are given free hand when it comes to using natural products.
Shea butter products
Start with the products that have a rich amount of shea butter in them. There are endless options when it comes to choosing between the brand of shampoos, conditioners, oils, and hair protectant sprays.
Hop on and fill your carts with shea butter-formulated products without giving it a second thought.
Go great with oils
Shea butter combined with oils (coconut, jojoba) gives excellent results. Mixing it with conditioners, shampoos, and hair masks can eliminate unwanted dryness, frizz, and hair fall.
Whip it, whip it, and whip it
For extra moist, soft, and manageable hair go for whipped shea butter. As the consistency of shea butter is somewhat firm, blending it with coconut or jojoba oil gives 2X results. This whipped mixture is significant for people fighting with super tangly and rough hair.
Here is a quick and easy recipe of whipped shea butter for you. Make sure to follow the step-by-step procedure.
Through the double boiling method, melt shea butter. Once it is melted, add an equal amount of coconut oil to it. Whip whip and whip it until it is doubled or tripled.
Directly apply it to your hair as a moisturing and smoothing mask.
DIY hair masks got your back
Lastly, DIY hair hacks! Trust me adding DIY masks in your hair care routine is a must. What’s better than a quick, easy, less chaotic spa day that too at your home comfort and hygiene?
These hacks are safe as they include all-natural products, are easy to make and apply, and the best part is they are budget-friendly.
Don’t wait any further read the DIYs explained below and give yourself a pampering day.
DIY 1 ( for deep hair conditioning)
Requirements
- Shea butter-1 tbsp
- Coconut oil-2 tbsp
- Argan oil- 1 tbsp
- Essential oils ( any of your choice)
Procedure
Take 1 tsp of shea butter and 2 tsp of coconut oil in a bowl. Melt it a bit then set aside for cooling. After cooling, at 1 tsp of argan oil and introduce a few drops of essential oil (lavender, rosemary etc).
Once everything is combined, use a hand mixer and whip the mixture until it takes the form of creamy paste.
And TADAA your deep hair conditioning mask is ready.
Apply it 30 minutes before shower and then rinse it with a shampoo. Use it twice a week for better results.
DIY 2 (for extreme hair growth)
Requirements
- Shea butter-1.2tbsp
- Castor oil-1.2tbsp
Procedure
Take 1-2tbsp of shea butter and melt it by double boiling method. Once melted, add it in a bowl and then mix it with an equal amount of castor oil. Mix until fully combined. You have your hair growth mask ready.
Apply at least 3 times a week to see results.
Pro tip: Castor oil is a bit heavy in texture. Use mild to heavy shampoo to completely get rid of the hair mask.
DIY 3 (for smoothing and shining)
Requirement
- Shea butter- 2 tbsp
- Vitamin E- few drops
- Aloe vera- 1.2tbps
Procedure
Take 1-2tbps of shea butter and melt it down through a double boiling method. Set aside until warm to touch. Add aloe vera to it with a few drops of vitamin E.
Combine together until a firm paste is formed. Apply from roots to tips for better application.
Finally rinse it with lukewarm water and slight shampoo. Use it twice a week.
Frequently asked questions
What is a healthy estimated time to leave shea butter in my hair?
It has been a most asked question regarding shea butter application. Ideally it is adivced to leave shea butter in hair for around 20-30 mints. If you are appling a hair mask, go from root to tips. For better results, repeat it 2-3 times a week.
Does shea butter work on dry scalp?
The good news here is yes! Shea butter works significantly at dry and flaky scalp. With its anti-inflammatory and protective properties it heals the irritation and redness of scalp. The best part is, it also moistens and softens your hair and give them a new life.
Can I replace my current conditioner with raw shea butter?
Let me tell you straight pure shea butter is far better than these styling products. The purpose of conditioner is to restore moisture, softness, and shine of your hair the good thing is shea butter can do it all. It is advice to treat your hair shea oils prior to shower and conditioner after shampoo for more protection and hydration.
How long does it take for shea butter to show results on hair?
When high content of fatty acids and vitamin E comes together they create a favorable environment for hair. Shea butter is rich in fatty acids and its antioxidant properties help repair hair to a significant extent. With the regular use of shea butter one can see efficient results in less time.
Does shea butter work on thin, fine hair?
Combine other natural products and oils with raw shea butter to treat thin hair. In the case of shea butter, less is more. That is why experts suggest to use a minimum quantity of shea butter because too much product can weigh down thin hair.
Now, it’s your turn!
Although shea butter doesn’t have any side effects be it your scalps or skin. Before jumping on bandwagon do proper research regarding your hair type because sometimes oily hair becomes extremely greasy and worsens your hair condition. Play safe and use oil-based products instead of butter to gain 100% benefits from shea butter.
Lastly, in the case of shea butter, less is more. I repeat less is more. The overall texture of raw and unrefined shea butter is heavy and creamy thus it gives full coverage even if applied in a minimum amount. Good luck, have a good hair day!
Also Read:
- Does Shea Butter Expire?
- Does Shea Butter Grow Hair?
- Does Shea Butter Darken Skin?
- How Long Does Shea Butter Last?
- What Does Shea Butter Smell Like?
- Does Shea Butter Help With Scars?
- Where Does Shea Butter Come From?
- Does Shea Butter Help with Stretch Marks?
- Does Shea Butter Lighten Skin: What I Wish I Knew!
- Cocoa Butter for Skin Lightening: What I Wish I Knew!
- Shea Butter vs Cocoa Butter: The Ultimate Comparison Guide!
