Beauty Ingredients Dictionary: Cocoa Butter, A Sweet Treat For Your Skin

Whenever we hear the word cocoa butter, it instantly reminds us of decadent chocolates that taste exquisite. Although this wonder ingredient is often included in desserts, it seems that cocoa butter delivers equal benefits to our skin too. Needless to say, cocoa butter is a staple in your cupboard and makeup vanity. In fact, its usage is traced back over 3000 years ago during the Mayan and Aztec times. Realizing its benefits for the skin, tons of beauty brands have utilized cocoa butter as one of the ingredients. So, what makes it so special? Below, Beauty Insider answers all your burning questions about cocoa butter, from its benefits to side effects. Plus, our pick on the best products too. 

Brief Information

What is the main benefit?

It delivers intense moisture for long-lasting hours and protects the skin against environmental aggressors. It is highly rated for its ability to minimize the appearance of scars and stretch marks

Who should use it?

It is ideal for those who want to deeply hydrate and nourish their skin. However, use it sparingly if you have acne-prone skin

How to use it? 

It’s compatible with hydrating ingredients especially vitamin E and shea butter but avoid using it together with ingredients that can clog the pores. Since it is gentle to the skin, you can simply use it throughout the day unless stated otherwise

What exactly is Cocoa Butter?

As the name suggests, cocoa butter derives from the cocoa bean in which it was extracted through several processes including drying, roasting and pressing. Generally, there are up to 40 seeds inside the cocoa pod. Once the fat has been extracted, the remnants will be used as cocoa powder. Unlike similar ingredients, cocoa butter is known to have a longer shelf life, between two and five years. Additionally, it also doesn’t melt easily at room temperature. Since it is packed with hydrating, nourishing, and antioxidant benefits, you can find an array of products that are formulated with it.  

What are the Benefits of Cocoa Butter?

With its amazing benefits, cocoa butter is highly loved by professionals and beauty junkies. Before you’re feeling hesitant about its effectiveness or start to question, is it good for your face, know that it is supported by several research studies. Among the list of benefits are:

• It is packed with hydrating ingredients like fatty acids to deeply moisturise the skin
• Protect the skin against environmental damage and free radicals
• Minimize the appearance of scars and stretch marks 
• Soothe irritation, inflammation and itchiness 

On top of that, the research found that the polyphenols which is a compound present in cocoa butter can actually reverse the signs of ageing and increase skin elasticity. Whereas another study published in 2014, indicates that it can treat skin disorders and protect the skin from signs of premature ageing.

Although it is often associated with its ability to combat stretch marks from developing and even scars, the truth is that there is lacking evidence to support such a claim. A previous study published in 2015  found that cocoa butter doesn’t actually improve the conditions of stretch marks.

Side Effects of Cocoa Butter

Generally, cocoa butter is safe to use on the skin, however, those with acne-prone skin should use it with caution since it can worsen your existing conditions. Moreover, people who have allergies to cocoa butter should consult with their doctor beforehand to avoid any adverse effects. Although it is known as a wonder ingredient, a previous study found that it contains anti-estrogenic properties. This side effect can diminish the female hormone and affect the puberty process, particularly for an adolescent, however more research is needed to support this finding. 

Products that are Formulated with Cocoa Butter 

1.Cake Beauty Cake Walk Rich + Reviving Foot Crème

Cake Beauty Cake Walk Rich + Reviving Foot Crème features a concoction of cocoa butter, avocado oil and sweet almond oil. It has a buttery and creamy texture that easily absorbs into the skin without leaving any greasy residue. Enhanced with peppermint and spearmint essential oil and menthol crystals, it delivers cooling and refreshing sensations. Simply slather it all over your feet and you will notice that they look soft and smooth. 

Why we love it:

• Instant hydration
• Pleasant scent
• Buttery texture

Price: $14.90

2.Babyganics moisturizing daily lotion

Are you looking for the best moisturiser for your little one? Splurge on the Babyganics moisturizing daily lotion to keep the skin nourished and hydrated without any side effects. It contains a blend of cocoa butter, shea butter and NeoNourish® Seed Oil to revive the skin. Most importantly it is not formulated with any irritating or harmful ingredients. 

Why we love it:

• Dermatologist tested
• Free from harmful ingredients
• Good value

Price: $18.00

3.RRAW Mango Lip Balm

RRAW Mango Lip Balm is a vegan and organic product that is loaded with all the goodness that your lips need. Infused with shea butter, cocoa butter and carnauba wax, it helps to hydrate and nourish your lips instantly. All you ever need is one swipe of this fan favourite lip balm to keep dry and chapped lips at bay. 

Why we love it:

• Hydrate the lips for long-lasting hours
• Pleasant scent
• Organic 

Price: $7.12 (Original price: $8.90)

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