Shea Butter in the Therapy of Sensitive Skin: What are its Properties and Advantages

Sensitive skin is a condition in which the skin is more prone to irritation and allergic reactions to various factors, such as detergents, cosmetics, chemicals or even temperature changes. Here are some characteristics, causes, symptoms and ways to treat and relieve irritation of sensitive skin, along with the effects of shea butter:

Characteristics:

  • Sensitive skin is delicate, thin and susceptible to reactions to various external factors.
  • Redness, itching, burning, dryness and cracking of the skin may occur.
  • People with sensitive skin may experience allergic reactions to various substances, even to those considered benign.

Causes of onset:

  • Genetic factors may play a role in the susceptibility to sensitive skin.
  • Contact with irritants such as detergents, soaps, cosmetics or chemicals.
  • Environmental factors such as air pollution, UV rays or temperature changes.

Symptoms:

  • Redness of the skin.
  • Itching, burning.
  • Dry, flaky skin.
  • Rash.
  • Possible allergic reactions such as hives or rash.

Treatment and alleviation:

  • Avoidance of irritants and environmental factors.
  • Use of mild, hypoallergenic cosmetics and detergents.
  • Moisturising the skin regularly, using moisturising creams, lotions or oils.
  • Using soothing and calming preparations, such as creams containing aloe vera or panthenol.
  • Avoiding hot baths and prolonged exposure to water.
  • Avoiding rough fabrics and clothing.

Shea butter is good for sensitive skin for several reasons:

  1. Natural and hypoallergenic: Shea butter is a natural ingredient, extracted from the nuts of the butter tree. It is hypoallergenic, which means it is well tolerated by most people, including those with sensitive skin.
  2. Soothing properties: Shea butter has soothing properties that can help reduce inflammation and irritation on sensitive skin. It works gently without irritating the skin.
  3. Moisturising: Thanks to its fatty acid content, shea butter is excellent at moisturising the skin. This helps to maintain its natural barrier function, which is important for sensitive skin.
  4. Protection against external factors: The protective layer that shea butter forms on the skin can help protect against harmful external factors such as environmental pollutants or chemical irritants.
  5. Skin barrier strengthening: Regular use of shea butter can help strengthen skin barriers, which is key for sensitive skin to prevent excessive dryness and irritation.

In conclusion, shea butter is an excellent ingredient for sensitive skin due to its soothing, moisturising and protective properties that can bring relief and improvement to the skin. When using shea butter on sensitive skin, it is important to choose a high-quality product without additional irritants. In addition, moisturising and soothing the skin on a regular basis can help to keep it healthy and comfortable. In case of severe allergic reactions or chronic problems with sensitive skin, it is always advisable to consult a dermatologist.