Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Extract
The unsaponifiable fraction of shea butter. It softens skin and supports the barrier, rich in phytosterols. Well tolerated.
Evidence by route
Topical application
A nourishing plant extract. Safe.
- CIR Cosmetic Ingredient Review safety assessment
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Shea butter extract is a fraction isolated from shea tree butter (Butyrospermum parkii), rich in fatty acids and unsaponifiable compounds. INCI: Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Extract. In a formula it works as an emollient and a barrier-support component: it softens skin, reduces water loss, and gives a nourished feel. The unsaponifiable part of shea contains compounds with a mild soothing potential, so the component makes sense in products for dry and reactive skin. Its standalone clinical effect is modest; the main role is emollient and barrier support. Pregnancy safety. Topical use, low systemic absorption, no evidence of harm. It can be used during pregnancy and lactation. Tolerance. Irritation and allergen potential are low, suitable for dry and sensitive skin.
Frequently asked questions
Is Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Extract safe during pregnancy?
Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Extract is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Extract for?
Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Extract suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Extract and what does it do in cosmetics?
The unsaponifiable fraction of shea butter.
Is Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Extract comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 1/5 – very low comedogenicity. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Extract?
The INCI name is Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Extract. It may also appear as: Shea Butter Extract, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter Extract.
See Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Extract in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
Explore by category
Ingredients in the same category
Butyrospermum Parkii Oil, C10-18 Triglycerides, C12-13 Alkyl Glyceryl Hydrolyzed Hyaluronate, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Ficus Carica Oil, Hydrolyzed Silk, Panax Ginseng Seed Oil, Sorbitol
Published: · updated: