There are many different types of butter on the market, and choosing one can be challenging, particularly for those who aren’t familiar with the major brands. Two of the most popular butters are Shea and Argan, but how do they compare to each other? Keep reading to find out.
Argan Butter
This butter originates in North Africa and is an ingredient in many cosmetics, especially the more expensive ones. It is harvested in Morocco and is prized for its anti-aging and moisturizing properties, but can also be used for skin conditions such as acne, dryness and wrinkles. Like Argan Oil, this butter is packed with triterpenoids, which means it is exceptional when it comes to healing the skin and alleviating inflammation. It also contains lots of tocopherols, which are dynamic antioxidants known for their ability to slow down and even reduce aging. Those who apply Argan butter to their skin will also get protection from extreme weather, UV radiation and free radicals.
Shea Butter
This butter is derived from Shea tree nuts in Mali, and will sometimes have a yellow color in its raw form, while some variants are white in appearance. Shea is a type of triglyceride, which is a fat consisting mostly of oleic and stearic acid. It is a very popular ingredient in cosmetics, including lotions and moisturizers, but like the regular cow’s butter that is found in supermarkets, is edible and is found in many African dishes. In fact, many chocolate manufacturers will combine Shea with various types of oils as an alternative to cocoa butter whenever it’s not available. It has been used in Africa since antiquity and aside from its cosmetic applications it is sometimes used as an ingredient in medicine, and can be used for emollient, humectant and anti-inflammatory purposes.
Similarities and Differences Between These Two Butters
Argan and Shea Butter are both related, and as such share many characteristics. Neither is superior to the other, but both have their strengths and weaknesses. For instance, Argan butter is a stronger moisturizer overall, partly due to the large amount of unsaturated fatty acid it contains. Argan also has a stronger absorption rate, but both butters are not comedogenic which means your pores will not become clogged. Shea Butter, on the other hand, is stronger when it comes to healing.
One area where these butters differ is their room temperature consistency. While Shea Butter remains solid, Argan butter or oil will become liquid, which it’s designed for. The interesting thing about Argan oil is that it can be combined with Shea while not losing its medicinal attributes in the process. Both butters are excellent when it comes to combating and reversing aging. Argan butter in particular is impressive with its wonderful scent and ability to deeply penetrate the skin, and when taken at night before bed you will wake up with exceptionally soft skin the next day.