Shea Butter for hair has been used for many centuries and dates back to ancient African civilizations using the extract of the Shea Karite tree. It has amazing vitmain and nutrient properties that can help repair and moisturize damaged or dry hair.
Because it may seem difficult or complicated to use at first, we decided we would help create a simple guide on how to use shea butter for your hair and revitalize it for the best results.
The benefits of using shea butter shampoo and hair products are many. It is a natural conditioner and will blow away any types of commercial shampoos you have used before. You hair will feel softer, seem to shine more, and your scalp will feel good as well. Those who suffer from an itchy scalp can benefit greatly from shea butter.
It can be applied quite simply in its natural state. We prefer unrefined types, as they do not lose any of their healing properties due to proccessing it. It comes in blocks or you can purchase it in a jar.
To get started, you should first dampen or wash your hair. This will make it much easier to apply and use. You can then decide whether you would like to use the butter in its natural state or take a few minutes to turn in into a liquid which can be added much easier in the shower and as a hot oil treatment.
To use the product in its natural state, all you will need to do is to scoop a small amount into your fingers and then gently rub it so it will soften, as it often will begin to liquify just from your own body temperature. Work it in gently, rubbing it in starting from your scalp and roots all the way to the tips. You will immediately begin noticing results. You would think that your hair might feel greasy after doing this, but it ususually isn’t! We recommend doing it right before bed so you can allow the butter to really work its magic before you shampoo and style as usual. You’ll notice a dramatic difference!
If you prefer to have a liquid substance that is slightly easier to apply into your hair, you can soften and possibly melt the creme pretty easily. All you will need to do is to place about 1-2 tablespoons of it into a plastic bag and seal tightly. Then, run hot water out of the tap over the bag for 1-2 minutes. NEVER microwave or heat the butter directly over the tap – not only could this cause a burn (although you will have shea butter to help soothe that pain!) adding heat to the product also depletes it of some of its natural qualities that help make it so moisturizing and wonderful.
Once you have slightly melted the butter, you will see that it applies on very easily and quickly. Be sure you really rub it into your scalp and all the way from the roots to the very tips. Again, you can leave on for 30 minutes before washing if you feel that it makes your skin oily, or we recommend putting it on right before bedtime and then washing your hair for a rejuvenating feeling first thing in the morning.
Do you have any tips or ideas for using shea butter for hair care? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.