A dozen African countries have that special something. Shea trees grow there, from which beneficial Shea butter, also known as karité butter, is made. It is the nuts of this tree, more specifically the large seed inside, that is rich in fats appreciated since the times of Cleopatra and Nefertiti.
In Europe, this tree was discovered only in the 18th century, but products made from it arrived here towards the end of the 19th century. Research on the properties of the butter, which is why this ingredient is so often present in cosmetics, started in the 20th century. Early or late, what's important is that we also have Shea butter.
Lovers of natural cosmetics know Shea butter very well. The name Shea means “holy,” and karité means “life.” These two names perfectly reflect the properties of this product. It is revered in its countries of origin for its unlimited medicinal—and virtually life-giving—properties. It is most appreciated by people struggling with dry skin and hair or chapped lips.
The butter is richly supplied with saturated and unsaturated fatty acids as well as vitamins A, E, and F. Thanks to this, it exceptionally nourishes and moisturizes the body, providing the skin with elasticity and smoothness. It moisturizes even the deepest layers of the skin. Moreover, the effects of its use are long-lasting, and we can enjoy softness, hydration, and the scent for a long time. Cosmetologists claim that this natural ingredient is a remedy for all skin ailments. Irritations, scars, or stretch marks are no match for it.
It is impossible to list all the types of cosmetics Shea butter has been used in. What do the hair say about it? They can count on serum or masks for dry ends, smoothing the hair structure, and increasing elasticity. Shea butter deeply moisturizes and nourishes dry hair, giving it shine in the process. The scalp itself can benefit from soothing all irritations and strengthening hair follicles.
Dry skin will also appreciate the properties of Shea butter, which will grease, moisturize, and smooth it. It will also serve as an effective weapon against free radicals that accelerate skin aging. The delicate skin under the eyes has also experienced its exceptional effects. This product will reduce puffiness, increase elasticity, and minimize dark circles under the eyes. How to use Shea butter for it to be effective?
The real one means without preservatives and other fillers with which unknown-origin products in supermarkets are saturated. In production, the refining method, i.e., mechanical and thermal purification, which prolongs its shelf life but can lead to the loss of many properties if improperly done, plays an important role. The best, richest in health-beneficial ingredients, is unrefined butter. If we are sure about the source of origin, it is worth giving up many daily cosmetics in favor of Shea butter. We can guarantee no allergic reactions with such a natural ingredient. It is also worth considering a massage using Shea butter because it allows us to achieve the deepest degree of tissue hydration. The butter is heated before the massage and applied to the body at 40 degrees Celsius. In this way, vitamins and nutrients are delivered to the skin. Are there any restrictions?
Also read: Types of massage – choose the best one for you!
The use of Shea butter alone is safe; however, massages always have their restrictions, so various concerns should be consulted before the treatment. Contraindications include acute respiratory tract inflammations, severe skin irritations, epilepsy, early post-injury conditions, cancers, or hypertension. Menstruation or pregnancy should also be reported before the treatment. If qualified for the treatment, remember that no special preparation is needed, but a good tip is to take a warm shower before the procedure, which will enhance the effects of this precious cosmetic.
The most important thing is to know what you want, specifically what your body and mind need. If we know that our skin tends to dryness, cracking, or thickening, there is no need to hesitate about the type of massage that would suit us. With Shea butter, regeneration is guaranteed regardless of gender. Additionally, relaxation, improved well-being, and tension reduction come with it. This type of massage can be enjoyed at Hotel St. Bruno.