It’s a lot to think about. That’s why we love a multi-use, nutrient-dense ingredient like shea butter. The butter is made from the fat extracted from the nuts of the Shea Tree, a plant native to West Africa (almost all of the shea butter used today still comes from this region). It, of course, has long been a staple for those with curly, coily, and kinky hair as it has tons of uses (not to mention: It’s a great body hydrator, too). So what are some of the best ways to use this star ingredient, in case you’re curious or want some more hair care inspo? This is why it makes for a great conditioner or hair treatment, like a mask. There are several hair treatments that use shea as their star ingredient (see our favorites below), or you can warm up some of the butter in your hands working it through your hair, root to tip. How dry your hair or scalp is will tell you how close to the root to get and how long you keep it on: “In its natural form, you can apply it directly to the ends of hair, as it acts like a conditioner and can help prevent split ends and reduce breakage,” says Branch. Essentially, the butter will wrap around the hair, infusing the strands with nutrients while also adding a coat of protection against further splitting. And when the ingredient coats the already frayed ends, it temporarily improves the look of them in the meantime before your next trim. “When applied at the scalp, shea butter can aid in reducing any redness and dryness, which can minimize flakes,” says Branch. One way to effortlessly apply it is to give yourself a scalp massage. Simply warm your shea butter in your hands and, using the pads of your fingers, work your scalp with gentle circular motions for five minutes. See, what makes the ingredient so appealing to many with dry, thick, or coarse hair also makes it not ideal for others. What do we mean by this? The thick, dense texture. “Since shea butter is very rich, if applied at the root on thin hair, it can leave hair appearing greasy and flat,” says Branch. “Instead, apply a small amount to just the ends to reap the moisturizing benefits without the weight.”
