Saponified Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
What is Saponified Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter?
Saponified Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter refers to shea butter that has undergone saponification, a process where it is chemically reacted with a base (typically sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide) to convert its fatty acids into soap salts, resulting in a gentle, natural cleanser. The '5' likely denotes a specific formulation variant, such as a 5% concentration or a standardized grade used in skincare products. This ingredient is valued in rinse-off cleansers and soaps for its mild surfactant properties and moisturizing after-feel derived from retained shea emollients.
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.