Shea Butter Selection and Storage Tips

Selection And Storage Tips

Shea Butter Buying Tips

Keep these pointers in mind when buying shea butter:

• Look for the raw or unrefined version of shea butter.
• Ensure that the butter has come from a reliable source or company that believes in ethics, fair trade, and is environment-friendly.
• Check the shea butter’s smell. It should be a little nutty or earthy. Any plastic-like or chemical scent indicates that it is not an unrefined version.
• If possible, try on a small amount of shea butter on your arm. It should be soothing and moisturizing.
• As far as the color is concerned, it ranges quite a bit when it comes to the unrefined version. Make sure the butter you are planning to purchase is not ivory-colored as a lighter color indicates that it has gone through the refinement process of bleaching.

How To Store Shea Butter

The best way to store 100% shea butter is to store it in a cool environment in an airtight container. Keep it away from the sun. Quite often, vitamin E is added to shea butter to increase its shelf life. On an average, 100% shea butter has a shelf life of two years. If you sense an acidic/rancid smell, it might be time to throw it away.