Ingredient reference
Shea Butter
Shea butter comes from the nut of the West African shea tree. On an ingredient list it usually appears under the older botanical name, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter.
Two botanical names, one tree
The species was reclassified as Vitellaria paradoxa, and cosmetic labelling largely kept the previous name. Butyrospermum Parkii and Vitellaria paradoxa refer to the same tree. Seeing the older name on a label is normal, and is not a sign of an outdated formula.
Why it melts on contact
Shea is solid at room temperature and softens near body heat, which is why a firm balm turns to oil between your fingers. That behaviour comes from its fatty-acid profile — largely stearic and oleic acids — and it is the reason shea is used in balms and body butters rather than thin lotions.
Refined and unrefined
Unrefined shea is off-white to yellow and carries a distinct nutty smell. Refined shea is paler and close to odourless. Refining changes colour and scent; both are shea. Ingredient lists do not always distinguish the two, so texture and smell are the practical clues.
What this page does not do
This is an ingredient reference. It describes what the ingredient is, how it behaves in a formula, and where it appears in our catalogue. It does not make a performance, safety, suitability or timeline claim, and it does not replace the complete ingredient list on a product page.
Quick answers
Is Butyrospermum Parkii shea butter?
Yes. It is the botanical name commonly used for shea butter on cosmetic ingredient lists.
Why does shea butter melt so easily?
Its fatty-acid profile means it softens near body temperature — solid in the jar, oil on the skin.
Is unrefined shea better than refined?
Different, not better. Unrefined keeps its colour and nutty scent; refined is paler and close to odourless.
Where do I find the complete formula?
On the product page for the item you are considering. Read the complete ingredient list there before purchasing.
In these formulas
Each product page carries its own complete ingredient list. Read it there before purchasing.
