Get Buttered Up with Shea Butter

Shea butter is a natural moisturizer that contains properties very similar to those produced by our own sebaceous glands. Those who swear by it say it helps with everything from wrinkles to rashes. And it that wasn't enough, it also contains anti-bacterial properties, or wound healers, that are extremely beneficial.

Now, we are not talking about the products that say they contain shea butter, we are talking about 100% pure shea butter. Don't be fooled. Products can say they contain an ingredient even if it is just a tiny amount, and to get the amazing benefits of shea butter you want to make sure you are getting the 100% real deal.

Shea butter comes from the nut of the Shea trees found in Africa, and is a natural fat extracted from the nut of an African tree called Vitellaria Paradoxa. It is widely used in cosmetics as a moisturizer, salve or lotion. The butter is also edible and used widely in food prep. Whenever anything is pure enough that it can be consumed as a food, you can feel good about putting it on your skin. The skin is the largest organ on our body, and what we put on the skin gets absorbed by the skin and into our bodies-the less chemicals the better.

As the winter moves in, the cold and dry air moves in too. The skin can no longer draw moisture from the air and can become dry, cracked and itchy. A great moisturizer can help relieve these symptoms and keep you feeling silky smooth throughout the cold and dry winter ahead.

Okay, so how do you select a good quality shea butter so that you can reap the benefits? Here are some tips for you:

* Look for the American Shea Butter Institute of Approval Seal

* What is the processing method? (Traditional extraction is the one you want)

* The color will vary from light gray to medium yellow. If it is white, it is not natural

* The scent will be natural and strong. This will fade over time.

* The texture should be smooth and soft (like butter)

* Look for 100% pure

The price of shea butter ranges from $5 for a large jar at beauty supply stores and online all the way to $39 or more for cosmetic brands, like L'Occitane, sold at Nordstrom's and other department stores.

Now, the next times someone tries to "butter you up," make sure it is with shea butter!