Hi! I was wanting some tips for shea butter. I purchased some, and it feels a little gritty until I warm it up in my hands. Is that the best way to do it- Or should I liquify it in the microwave? I also wondered if misting my hands with mineral water before I apply? I appreciate all the tips I can get. Thanks

Yes I know what you mean about gritty. I have a jar from the health food store, and it can feel a bit gritty till I warm it with my hands.
I have lightly heated it before over a double boiler, mix with coconut oil, etc.. etc.. to make a balm.. Then it was not gritty..
But for quick use I just let it warm in my hand. I know there are different grades of shea butter too.

Jane

Hi, Cleon - what you are feeling is just the natural texture of the shea butter - the little grit particles are basically small clumps of shea "crystals" - they do dissolve when you warm them either in your hands or in the micro or double boiler.

And blending the shea with coconut or another oil will help to keep them from reforming, too.

-b.

Hi Cleon,

I love shea

To apply, I just let a small amount (less than 1/8 teaspoon) melt in my hands, and then apply to really damp skin. I massage my face lightly, spray with more liquid (water, toner, hydrosol, aloe, herbal tea), and then massage again.

Sometimes I mist my hands instead of my face (like you mentioned) too.

Cheers,
DLW

I made some shea butter moisturiser the other day by whipping it together with some grapeseed and essential oils (you can find recipes through Google), which gave it a lovely consistency, just like marshmallow whip. Straight shea butter is a little too thick for me, and takes forever to sink in. During my reading up though, I came across some websites that recommended cooling the melted butter quickly (by putting it in the fridge, or putting the bowl into a larger one filled with ice water) in order to avoid the graininess. Perhaps you could try that?