Benefits of Shea ButterShea"s moisturizing and regenerative properties have led to traditional applications such as protecting skin against UV light and reducing inflammation, stretch marks, and wrinkles. Whole unrefined "virgin" butter is a preferred ingredient for use in natural cosmetic products. The Chemistry of Shea ButterDry shea kernels contain 50% oil or fat of which 3647% is stearin and 33-50% is olein. An unsaponifiable fraction (2-11 %) includes a range of chemicals with known bioactive properties: •Antioxidants such as tocopherols (vitamin E), carotenoids (precursors to vitamin A) and flavonoids (including catechins) •T riterpenes with anti-inflammatory and proteaseinhibition properties