Shea Butter

Shea Butter Origin

The story of L'Occitane and the women shea butter producers of West Africa began in the 1980s. Since then, we've built up a joint development partnership and a close, supportive relationship. There were about a dozen women at first. Now there are over 10,000! And since 2009, our shea butter supply chain has been 100% Fair Trade (Fair Trade certified according to the Fair for Life standard available at www.fairforlife.org). Discover our range of Fair Trade Shea Butter products online.

African woman holding shea nuts in the bottom of her white skirt

What Is Shea Butter?

The Shea nut is famous for the fatty kernel it contains, which is extracted and kneaded into a paste that becomes raw Shea butter. Rich in active ingredients, Shea butter has become universally loved for its intense nourishing and protective properties that help prevent dehydration and dryness for all skin types, making it a luxurious skin solution for every member of the family.

Grown wild in Eastern and Western Africa, it takes over 20 years for the Shea tree to start bearing nuts. They can tolerate the hot, dry conditions, and need little water to survive, so are perfectly suited to their environment.

Benefits Of Shea Butter For Skin

Shea butter is rich in Omega-3, Omega-6, Vitamin E and Karitene, renowned for its nourishing, hydrating, softening, and protecting properties, treating both oily and dry skin by creating a smooth and soft barrier that seals in moisture. Learn more about the benefits of Shea Butter and why it's such a special ingredient at L'Occitane.

How To Use Shea Butter

It’s ideal for use as anything from a daily moisturiser, to a specialist treatment in cases of eczema, chapped lips, razor burn and even nappy rash. But that’s not all this magic ingredient can do.

When applied, shea butter is quickly absorbed into the skin forming a barrier and holding moisture without making skin look oily. Shea butter is an ideal beauty balm for dry to very dry skin. It restores hydrolipid film for skin that is softer, more supple and more comfortable.

Woman applied shea butter in the shape of the heart on her hand.

Good as Gold

Shea trees dot the landscape in West Africa, where hot winds blow sand and dust daily across the Savannah. To protect their skin from the harsh conditions, women have used shea butter for generations. It is known as the gold of West Africa.
Supporting Women

L’Occitane is committed to empowering the women of West Africa by actively working with our foundation to further entrepreneurship and education of girls in the region. We aim to support 60,000 West African women by 2025.
Fair Trade

L’Occitane sources Shea butter through fair-trade agreements. It ensures that the women of West Africa reap the full benefits of their work by purchasing the butter directly from them.

Our Commitment

At L’Occitane, we have long admired the women of West Africa, whose skill in making Shea Butter has passed down from one generation to the next. We want to do all we can to help them and support women’s entrepreneurship.

With the aim of gaining greater emancipation for women in West Africa, the Sustainable Ingredients department at L’Occitane has worked to establish an increasingly fair trade supply chain. Since 2009, the supply chain has been 100% certified Fair Trade.

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Smiling African women wearing bright outfits and headdresses

Shea Butter Collection

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Shea Butter: Frequently Asked Questions

Is shea butter good for all skin types?

Yes. Shea butter is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive, dry, normal, combination and oily skin. Naturally rich in essential fatty acids and vitamins E and F, it helps nourish, protect and support the skin's natural moisture barrier while providing long-lasting hydration. Shea butter can be used from head to toe, making it a versatile ingredient for the face, body, hands and even dry hair. Its rich, comforting texture is especially beneficial for dry or dehydrated areas, leaving skin feeling soft, smooth and replenished.

Does shea butter clog pores?

Shea butter has a low comedogenic rating, meaning it is unlikely to clog pores for most skin types. As it absorbs, it forms a protective barrier that helps lock in moisture without feeling overly heavy or greasy. L'Occitane's Shea Butter Hand Cream and Body Lotion are formulated to absorb quickly, making them ideal for everyday use on the hands and body throughout the year. If you have very oily or acne-prone skin, choose facial products specifically formulated for your skin type to enjoy the nourishing benefits of shea butter while maintaining a balanced complexion.

Can I use shea butter on my face?

Yes. Shea butter is a gentle, nourishing ingredient that can be used on the face, especially if your skin is dry, sensitive or prone to dryness. Its soothing and moisturising properties help comfort the skin, reduce the feeling of tightness and support the skin's natural protective barrier. Lighter facial formulations containing shea butter are ideal for daily use and work well alongside other skincare ingredients.

Can I use shea butter on my hair?

Yes. Shea butter is an excellent moisturising ingredient for dry, damaged or textured hair. It helps nourish the hair fibre, smooth frizz, improve softness and add shine without stripping natural moisture. It can also be used on dry ends or as part of a nourishing haircare routine to help protect hair from dryness caused by heat styling and environmental stress.

Where does L'Occitane source its shea butter?

L'Occitane has partnered with women producers in West Africa since the 1980s. What began with a handful of women has grown into a cooperative of more than 10,000 producers. Since 2009, L'Occitane's entire shea butter supply chain has been 100% Fair Trade certified under the Fair for Life standard. This ensures producers receive fair compensation for their expertise and craftsmanship while supporting long-term economic empowerment within their communities.

How often should I use shea butter hand cream?

For best results, apply shea butter hand cream after washing your hands, before bed, and whenever your hands feel dry or tight. Australia and New Zealand's changing climate—from hot, sunny days to cool, dry winters—can leave hands feeling dehydrated. Regular application helps keep skin soft, nourished and protected all year round. L'Occitane's Shea Butter Hand Cream is fast-absorbing and non-greasy, making it perfect for everyday use.