Shea Butter (Vitellaria paradoxa) is a creamy, off-white or ivory-colored fat extracted from the nuts of the shea tree, native to West and East Africa. The shea tree is a slow-growing, deciduous tree that produces small, greenish-yellow flowers and large fruits that contain the seeds or "nuts" from which the butter is obtained. After the nuts are harvested, they are boiled, dried, and then crushed and roasted to extract the fat, which is then filtered to yield the final product.

Shea butter is widely used in cosmetics and skincare products due to its rich moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties. It is often found in lotions, balms, and soaps, as it helps to nourish the skin, soothe irritation, and prevent dryness. Additionally, shea butter is used in hair care products to enhance hair moisture, improve elasticity, and reduce scalp dryness. It is also sometimes used in cooking in certain parts of Africa, although it is less common in Western culinary practices.

While shea butter is generally safe for most people, individuals with nut allergies should exercise caution when using products that contain it. It is also important to choose unrefined, organic shea butter when possible to avoid chemical additives or contaminants. Overuse of shea butter in skincare may cause clogged pores for some individuals, particularly those with oily or acne-prone skin.