Description: Shea olein is a liquid fraction of shea butter, obtained by fractionating shea butter at high temperatures to separate the solid stearic acid from the liquid oleic acid. It is a light yellow to colorless oil with a mild, nutty odor. This is a good source of essential fatty acids, including oleic acid, linoleic acid, and stearic acid. It is also rich in vitamin E and antioxidants.
Shea Olein is made from fractionating shea butter and is also known as “liquid” shea butter or shea nut oil. Unlike raw shea butter, shea olein is a liquid at room temperatures because the heavy fats have been removed. Because of this, it is a great addition to any blends used for topical use. With liquid shea butter, you can enjoy the benefits of shea nut in the form of liquid blends and cosmetic without the grainy textures. It is recommended for skin care applications, lip balms and liquid make up (cosmetic). Commonly listed as “shea oil” in professional cosmetic products and other manufactured goods that utilize liquid form of shea butter
Shea olein oil has the beneficial properties including:
- Moisturizing: It is a rich source of essential fatty acids, which help to moisturize and nourish the skin and hair, acting as an excellent carrier oil for aromatherapy.
- Antioxidant: It is also rich in vitamin E and antioxidants, which help to protect the skin and hair from damage caused by free radicals.
- Non-comedogenic: It is a non-comedogenic oil (rating 0-1), meaning it does not clog pores, making it safer for acne-prone skin than heavier butters.
- Light viscosity: This has a light viscosity, making it easy to spread and absorb. This makes it ideal for low porosity hair that cannot absorb thick butters.
Shea olein oil can be used for purposes, including:
- Cosmetics-Use as a base for lotions and creams.
- Hair care-Perfect for sealing moisture in split ends or as a base for beard oil recipes.
- Skin care-Excellent for dry skin and cuticle care.
- Massage-Due to its high slip and slow absorption relative to lighter oils, it serves as a superior shea butter lubricant for massage therapy. (Note: For external massage use only; oil-based products are not compatible with latex).
Here are some additional tips for using Shea olein oil:
- Apply it to your skin after a shower or bath to lock in moisture.
- Add a few drops to your shampoo or conditioner to help condition your hair without weighing it down.
- Use it as a makeup remover; it dissolves stubborn makeup gently.
- Mix it with essential oils to create a custom liquid oil blend for body application.
- Store it in a cool, dark place.
How to keep shea butter liquid? You don’t have to! By choosing Shea Olein, you have a stable liquid version that won’t solidify in cooler room temperatures.
Shea olein is a versatile oil that can be used for a variety of purposes to improve the health and appearance of your skin, hair, and body.
Type: Conventional
Botanical name:Â Butyrospermum parkii (Shea) Oil
Plant Part:Â Nuts
Extraction Method: Fractionation (Separation of shea stearin from the oil)
Odor and Appearance: Light yellow to colorless oil with a mild, nutty odor.
County of origin: France/India
Note: Base Note
Main Constituents:
- Essential fatty acids (oleic acid, linoleic acid, and stearic acid)
- Vitamin E
- Antioxidants
Common Uses:
- Cosmetics
- Hair care (including shea oil for hair growth stimulation via scalp massage)
- Skin care
- Massage
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is shea butter oil based?
Yes, shea butter and shea olein are fats (lipids). Shea olein is the liquid oil fraction
- Is shea butter a seed oil?
Technically, it is extracted from the nut (kernel) of the shea tree, so it is often classified alongside nut/seed oils.
- Can shea butter be used as a lubricant?
Shea olein makes an excellent massage lubricant due to its silky feel. However, like all oil-based products, it degrades latex and should not be used with latex barriers.
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This is my favorite oil and the price is the best I’ve found so far.
Great Oils and customer service. Order was well packaged!
I have not used this oil but am excited to try a new “whipped” body butter recipe. The size and price was right!