Butyrospermum Parkii Oil, commonly known as Shea Oil, is derived from the seeds of the shea tree (Butyrospermum parkii), which belongs to the Sapotaceae family. This oil is widely used in the cosmetic and personal care industry for its moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and skin-conditioning properties.

Chemical Composition and Structure
Butyrospermum Parkii Oil contains a variety of bioactive compounds that contribute to its beneficial properties:

Fatty Acids: Including stearic acid, oleic acid, and linoleic acid, which provide moisturizing and skin-conditioning benefits.
Vitamins: Such as Vitamin A and Vitamin E, which are beneficial for skin health.
Phytosterols: Contribute to the anti-inflammatory and healing properties of the oil.
Triterpenes: Known for their anti-inflammatory and skin-healing properties.
Physical Properties
Butyrospermum Parkii Oil typically appears as a yellow to light green liquid with a mild, nutty scent. It is soluble in oils and alcohols but not in water, making it suitable for various cosmetic formulations such as lotions, creams, and balms.

Cosmetic and Personal Care Applications
Moisturizing: Helps to maintain skin hydration, preventing dryness and promoting softness.

Skin Conditioning: Improves the texture and appearance of the skin, making it smoother and healthier.

Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness, swelling, and irritation associated with various skin conditions.

Healing: Promotes the healing of minor cuts, wounds, and other skin injuries.

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

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Butyrospermum Parkii Oil is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic and personal care products when used within recommended concentrations. Sustainable harvesting practices are essential to ensure the preservation of shea trees and their natural habitats. Proper formulation and testing ensure its safety and efficacy in end products.

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.

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.
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CAS: 91080-23-8 EC number 293-515-7