Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Unsaponifiables

Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Unsaponifiables

Rating: Best
Benefits: Soothing
Categories: Emollient, Antioxidant

 

 

What Are Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Unsaponifiables?

Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Unsaponifiables are the concentrated fatty acid and sterol-rich portion derived from shea butter (Butyrospermum parkii), a natural emollient known for its skin-soothing and antioxidant properties. Unlike the saponifiable portion of shea butter used in soap-making, these unsaponifiable compounds are left behind during the refinement process. They include bioactive compounds such as tocopherol (vitamin E) and phytosterols, which are crucial for repairing and protecting the skin.

 

 

Chemical Composition and Functionality

The unsaponifiables of shea butter consist mainly of:

Tocopherol (C29H50O2): A powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from oxidative stress.

Sterols: Plant-derived compounds that soothe and repair damaged skin.

Fatty Acids: Including oleic acid (C18H34O2) and linoleic acid (C18H32O2), which play a vital role in reinforcing the skin's lipid barrier.

These elements make shea butter unsaponifiables particularly effective in treating dry, sensitive, or compromised skin, as they help lock in moisture and promote healing.

 

 

How Are They Used in Cosmetics?

Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Unsaponifiables are commonly used in products aimed at soothing and repairing the skin, such as:

Lip Balms: They protect and heal cracked lips by creating a barrier to prevent moisture loss.

Moisturizers: Especially in products targeting very dry or sensitive skin.

Hand Creams: To repair chapped and compromised skin.

Leave-On Skincare Products: The unsaponifiable fraction remains on the skin, delivering extended moisturizing and soothing effects.

This ingredient is highly regarded in cosmetics for its ability to restore the skin's barrier and smooth rough, dry skin textures.

 

 

Source and Regulatory Information

Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Unsaponifiables are derived from shea nuts harvested from the Vitellaria paradoxa tree, native to West Africa. According to CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review) assessments, shea butter and its fractions are deemed safe for use in cosmetics.

 

 

FDA and Regulatory Notes

The FDA includes shea butter and its derivatives in their list of approved ingredients under GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe), making it a reliable choice for various cosmetic formulations. Manufacturers must ensure accurate labeling, particularly when using different shea butter components.

 

 

Usage in Cosmetics

The typical usage level of Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) Unsaponifiables in skincare products ranges between 1-5%, depending on the product's desired benefits. In intensive repair products, concentrations may reach the higher end of this range to maximize the soothing and antioxidant effects.