SAPONIFIED BUTYROSPERMUM PARKII (SHEA) BUTTER
What is SAPONIFIED BUTYROSPERMUM PARKII (SHEA) BUTTER?
Saponi Ed Butyrospermum Parkii Shea Butter 1 refers to the saponified form of shea butter derived from the nuts of the Butyrospermum parkii tree, where the natural fats are chemically converted into a soap-like substance through saponification with a base such as sodium hydroxide. This process results in a gentle, moisturizing cleanser that retains some of shea butter's emollient properties while providing cleansing action via fatty acid salts. It is commonly used in natural and solid skincare formulations like soaps and cleansing bars for its mild surfactant properties.
Roles in Formulation
This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:
Emollient
Softens and smooths skin by filling in surface roughness and improving slip; can also help reduce moisture loss when paired with occlusives and film formers.
Moisturising
Improves skin hydration and comfort by combining water-binding (humectant) and barrier-supporting (emollient/occlusive) mechanisms to reduce dryness.
Refatting
Replenishes lipids removed during cleansing to improve mildness and reduce tightness, leaving skin or hair feeling less stripped after rinse-off use.
Skin protecting
Forms a barrier to protect skin from external irritants.
Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.