Description

Hydrogenated Shea Oil is derived from the oil of the shea nut (Butyrospermum parkii), which belongs to the Sapotaceae family. This oil undergoes a hydrogenation process, which changes its structure and properties, making it widely used in the cosmetic and personal care industry for its emollient, moisturizing, and skin-conditioning properties.

Chemical Composition and Structure
Hydrogenated Shea Oil is composed of various fatty acids that have been hydrogenated to increase their stability:

Stearic Acid: Provides moisturizing and protective properties.
Oleic Acid: Offers excellent skin-conditioning benefits.
Palmitic Acid: Contributes to the creamy texture and emollient properties.
Physical Properties
Hydrogenated Shea Oil typically appears as a white to off-white solid or semi-solid with a smooth, creamy texture. It is insoluble in water but soluble in oils and alcohols, making it suitable for various cosmetic formulations. The oil has a mild, neutral scent.

Cosmetic and Personal Care Applications
Emollient: Provides a smooth and soft feel to the skin, improving its texture and appearance.

Moisturizing: Helps to retain moisture in the skin, preventing dryness and maintaining hydration.

Skin Conditioning: Enhances the overall condition of the skin, making it healthier and more resilient.

Film-forming: Creates a protective barrier on the skin's surface, helping to shield it from environmental stressors.

Stabilizing Agent: Used in formulations to improve texture and stability.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Hydrogenated Shea Oil is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic and personal care products when used within recommended concentrations. It is biodegradable and environmentally friendly. Sustainable sourcing practices are essential to ensure the preservation of shea trees and their natural habitats.

Cosmetics - INCI Functions


Skin conditioning agent - Emollient. Emollients have the characteristic of enhancing the skin barrier through a source of exogenous lipids that adhere to the skin, improving barrier properties by filling gaps in intercorneocyte clusters to improve hydration while protecting against inflammation. In practice, they have the ability to create a barrier that prevents transepidermal water loss. Emollients are described as degreasing or refreshing additives that improve the lipid content of the upper layers of the skin by preventing degreasing and drying of the skin. The problem with emollients is that many have a strong lipophilic character and are identified as occlusive ingredients; they are oily and fatty materials that remain on the skin surface and reduce transepidermal water loss. In cosmetics, emollients and moisturisers are often considered synonymous with humectants and occlusives.

Opacifying agent. It is useful into formulations that may be translucent or transparent to make them opaque and less permeable to light.

Skin conditioning agent. It is the mainstay of topical skin treatment as it has the function of restoring, increasing or improving skin tolerance to external factors, including melanocyte tolerance. The most important function of the conditioning agent is to prevent skin dehydration, but the subject is rather complex and involves emollients and humectants that can be added in the formulation.
Synonyms:

CAS: 93333-83-6 EC number 297-053-7