Sheatree, Butyrospermum parkii, also known as Vitellaria paradoxa, is the source of Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter. When raw, it is ivory in colour and is frequently coloured yellow with palm oil or borutu root. It is used in numerous cosmetic and personal care products, such as bath and cleaning products, eye makeup, lotions and creams, suntan products, lipstick, and hair care products, where it functions as emollients and viscosity controllers.
Safety profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded the safety of Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter to be safe for cosmetic and personal care products. The majority of botanical and botanically derived ingredients used in cosmetic formulation are mild and secure. According to 21 CFR 740.10, the safety of each ingredient must be proven before the finished cosmetic product is marketed.