Shea Butter VS Cocoa Butter Differences & Comparison

In this post we will compare shea butter vs cocoa butter to point out the similarities and differences in both.

Also read: Coconut Oil vs. Cocoa Butter

Shea Butter & It’s Benefits

Shea body butter is a multi-purpose natural skin cream that contains antioxidants and fatty acids and is used in many beauty products. A good way to know if you’re getting quality shea butter is to find a product that has a third-party fair trade certification. People who are allergic to tree nuts should avoid shea butter. Also, you may experience irritation if you’re not careful. Shea butter is available in both raw and refined versions.

• It is said to help soothe the skin and protect against sun damage.
• Shea butter is often found in hair care products, but it is also a great moisturizer for all skin types.
• When applied to the skin, the essential fatty acids in it help to improve the appearance of stretch marks and wrinkles.
• It’s also said that shea butter helps to soften and smooth damaged cuticles and scalp. This makes it a great choice for dry or eczema-prone skin.

Shea Butter & Cocoa Butter Comparison

Cocoa butter and shea butter have similar properties and benefits but they are actually quite different.

1. The main difference is that shea butter is a natural fat that is extracted from the shea nut. On the other hand, cocoa butter is an extract from cocoa bean (cacao beans).
2. Both are excellent moisturizers for dry and dehydrated skin.
3. Shea butter is a bit lighter in texture than cocoa butter.
4. The scent of shea butter is slightly milder.
5. Cacao butter has been shown to have a higher antioxidant concentration than shea butter.
6. Shae butter has more moisturizing qualities. This makes it good for treating skin irritaion or conditions such as eczema. It is also better at reducing stretch marks.
7. Shea butter has less comedogenic properties than cocoa butter, making it ideal for all skin types. And it has a relatively long shelf life, meaning you can use it for several years.
8. Cocoa butter has a harder texture and requires a higher temperature to melt. It can also clog pores. For this reason, it is not recommended for people with oily or acne-prone skin.
9. Cocoa butter has a natural chocolatey scent, while shea butter has a light, nutty scent.
10. Both butters have a variety of uses, including healing damaged skin, easing itching, and soothing chapped lips via lip balms.
11. Shea butter is more beneficial for acne-prone skin. So if you have an acne-prone skin, consider using shea butter instead of cocoa butter.