Moisturising effect of shea butter formulation

INTRODUCTION Nowadays, shea butter can be often used in the cosmetic products in which it may impart moisturizing effects on the skin. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of cosmetic formulations containing shea butter, by using the hydration and elasticity probes of DermaLab Combo. MATERIALS AND METHODS The cosmetic formulations containing solid shea butter, coconut oil, almond oil, and rose powder were prepared with the ratio of 2:1:1:0.7. The formulations were then given to 10 volunteers to be applied on the volar forearm for 2 weeks. Skin conditions in term of hydration and elasticity of the skin were analysed before and after a 2 weeks period of daily application. The measurements were taken using hydration and elasticity probe of DermaLab Combo Clinical Skin Testing (Cortex Technology) instrument. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION After 2 weeks of application, the hydration and elasticity of the skin was shown to be significantly improved (p < 0.05). Shea butter has emollient properties which is can increase stratum corneum hydration by increasing the skin capacitance [1] and ultimately can improve the hydration state of the skin (Fig. 1). Fig. 1. Effect of shea butter on skin hydration (n=10) In addition to that, due to lipophilic feature of shea butter, it can attract and retain water molecules in the stratum corneum and hence increase the skin elasticity [1, 2]. Our results show that shea butter is a natural effective ingredient for improving skin hydration, possibly through a humectant mechanism. Consequently, it may be used in moisturizing cosmetic formulations and also as a complement in the treatment of dry skin. Fig. 2. Effect of shea butter on skin elasticity (n=10) CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, there is significant improvement in skin elasticity and skin hydration of the volunteers. Thus the claim of shea butter to be used as moisturizer is supported.