These are the most common uses for Shea Butter. Each card explains what to do,
why it works, and what to notice.
How to use Shea Butter for body butter and lotion
Whip 1 cup of butter alone, or melt with 1/4 cup of carrier oil for a softer texture.
Why it works for body butter and lotion
Shea and cocoa butter are solid at room temperature — they trap moisture against the skin and rebuild a dry, damaged barrier. Whipped on their own they make a thick, rich body butter. Melted with carrier oil they become softer lotions.
What you'll notice
- Deeply moisturize dry skin
- Make a no-water-needed body butter
- Skip preservative-heavy lotions
- Pair with essential oils for scent
- A long-lasting jar of skincare
How to use Shea Butter for lip balms
Melt butter + beeswax + carrier oil in equal parts. Pour into tubes or tins.
Why it works for lip balms
A homemade lip balm is just butter (or wax) melted with a carrier oil and poured into a container. Cheaper, cleaner, and more effective than commercial balms full of petroleum byproducts.
What you'll notice
- Skip petroleum-based commercial balms
- Cheap per ounce
- Customize the flavor and scent
- Pair with a hint of beet powder for tint
- Last for months
How to use Shea Butter for making salves and balms
Melt 1 ounce of beeswax with 1 cup of carrier oil over low heat, pour into tins.
Why it works for making salves and balms
Beeswax thickens carrier oils into shelf-stable, portable salves. It's also slightly protective on skin — sealing in moisture and creating a gentle barrier against the elements. A timeless ingredient in homemade balms.
What you'll notice
- Turn liquid oils into shelf-stable balms
- Add a protective skin barrier
- Make custom lip balms
- Easy to portion into tins
- Pair with calendula or essential oils for purpose
