You probably know of the shea butter that is extracted from the nut of the African shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa), found in so many beauty products today. However, do not confuse that with Nilotica Shea butter, although they are in the same family. Nilotica Shea is regarded as the luxury shea butter because it is more difficult to obtain and richer in texture.
The common Shea butter is found in abundance in West Africa, from Senegal in the west to Sudan in the east and onto the foothills of the Ethiopian highlands. In comparison, Nilotica Shea trees only grow in East Africa (Northern Uganda and South Sudan). They undergoing one cycle per year where they lose their leaves, bloom, fruit and regenerate. Incredibly, they become progressively more productive over a period of 300 years. Because of their long lifespan and nourishing fruit, Nilotica Shea is regarded by the Africans as God’s gift to them.
Nilotica Shea contains 25% more Essential Fatty Acids than that of conventional shea butter, along with high levels of vitamins A and E. It is luxurious by nature and can be cold-pressed into a buttery texture (rather than a slick oil). It has also been clinically proven to hydrate, brighten, and even out skin tone.
Here are some of the benefits of Nilotica Shea Butter:
Firstly, Nilotica Shea boasts of a unique fatty acid profile rich in linoleic, stearic, palmitic and oleic acids. As a result, it absorbs quickly and penetrates deeply into your skin, delivering moisture and natural fats to the driest parts. It also helps restore the protective layer on your skin, allowing the skin to hold the moisture in.
Secondly, Nilotica Shea has been found to have significant anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it suitable for sensitive skin and it can soothe skin, relieve itching and reduce redness and swelling.
Thirdly, with an abundance of vitamins A, E, K and F, Nilotica Shea promotes strong antioxidant activity within your skin cells. This means it actively protects your skin from free radicals and fights off premature aging and dull-looking skin.
Next, a study found that oral doses of shea bark extract led to decreased antimicrobial activity in animals. While the research is not conclusive, it may suggest that using Nilotica Shea on your skin can decrease the amount of acne-causing bacteria on the skin.
5. Boosts elasticity
Nilotica Shea also contains triterpenes, which are natural compounds known to stop the breakdown of collagen fibers and create plumper skin. What's more, it is known to encourage the growth of healthy cells, which in turns prevents and reduces the appearance of stretch marks and scars.
Last but not least, Nilotica Shea is recognized to help tissue remodeling that’s vital in treating wounds. It provides a protective layer on the skin, which helps shield superficial wounds from outside influences during the healing process.
You can find Nilotica Shea butter in our Sweet Whispers Hydrating Lotion, a face and body lotion that is perfect for all skin types. The plant-based formula fully absorbs into the skin, leaving a silky after-feel. A delicate lavender aroma calms the senses, lulling you and your little one to bed.
The Nilotica Shea butter in our Lotion is sourced directly from East Africa, providing meaningful work for the local women. Shea butter production and processing are laborious tasks traditionally done by women. Through working with a co-op, the women are paid a fair price and are equipped with education and skills to better themselves.
When you buy a Kiss Kiss Goodnight product, you are not just doing something good for your baby and yourself. You’re also changing the life of a family you’ve never met, and helping another momma sleep easier.
Struggling with dry hands from overwashing? Try our Sweet Whispers Hydrating Lotion to heal and protect them!