Shea Oil
Butyrospermum Parkii Oil
INCI: Butyrospermum Parkii Oil · Emollient · Skin Conditioner · Carrier Oil · Clear Liquid · Shea-Derived
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Shea Oil is a clear, low-spreading liquid oil derived from shea kernels. Unlike solid shea butter, it remains clear and liquid at room temperature — making it the ideal choice for transparent and translucent cosmetic oil formulations where cloudiness or opacity would compromise the finished product.
It delivers the same moisturizing and conditioning benefits as shea butter — rich unsaponifiable content at 8%, skin softening, barrier support — in a pumpable, easy-to-process liquid format. Suitable for cold or low energy processing. In most formulations, up to 25% can be incorporated while maintaining clarity at temperatures of 15°C and above.
| INCI Name | Function |
|---|---|
| Butyrospermum Parkii Oil | Emollient, skin conditioner, moisturizer, carrier oil |
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Slightly yellow liquid · clear at room temperature |
| Slip melting point | 12°C |
| Cloud point | 18°C |
| Unsaponifiable content | 8% |
| Processing | Cold or low energy processable |
| Format | Liquid · pumpable |
| Storage note | If stored in cold conditions, slight heating may be required to remove precipitation |
| Application | Usage Rate |
|---|---|
| Skin care oils — transparent and translucent formulations | 2–20% |
| Hair care oils | 1–20% |
| Shower oils | 1–20% |
| Maximum while maintaining clarity at ≥15°C | Up to 25% |
- Ideal for transparent and translucent oil formulations — clear at room temperature in most formulations up to 25%
- Cold or low energy processable — no heat required in most applications, saving time and energy
- If stored in cold conditions, apply slight heating to remove any precipitation before use
- Delivers shea butter benefits in a liquid pumpable format — easier to weigh and incorporate than solid butter
- Pairs exceptionally with INCI VAULT's Shea Butter Ethyl Esters for high-performance transparent body and hair oil formulations
- Add T-70 Tocopherol at 0.5–1% to support oxidative stability in finished formulations
- Intended use: Our products are provided for the exclusive purpose of creating external cosmetic and personal care formulations. They are not intended for internal use.
- Creator's liability: INCI VAULT is a supplier of ingredients and is not responsible for the final products you create. The responsibility for ensuring product safety, stability, and regulatory compliance rests entirely with you. This includes conducting thorough testing of all formulas.
- Professional guidance: If you do not have an advanced background in cosmetic science, we advise seeking the guidance of a professional formulator or chemist.
- FDA statement: The information and statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Need a larger quantity? Reach out — support@inci-vault.com
Shea Oil (INCI: Butyrospermum Parkii Oil) is a clear, lightweight liquid oil derived from shea kernels. Slip melting point 12°C · cloud point 18°C · unsaponifiable content 8%. Clear at room temperature — ideal for transparent and translucent cosmetic oil formulations. Moisturizing, conditioning, low spreading. Suitable for skin care oils (2–20%), hair care oils (1–20%), and shower oils (1–20%). Cold processable. Pumpable liquid format.
- Transparent and translucent skin care oils — 2–20% without compromising clarity
- Hair care oils and scalp treatments — 1–20% for lightweight conditioning
- Shower oils — 1–20% for moisturizing cleansing oils
- Body oils — pairs with Shea Butter Ethyl Esters for high-performance transparent body oil formulations
- Up to 25% can be incorporated while maintaining clarity at temperatures of 15°C and above
- Cold or low energy processable — no heat required in most applications
- Delivers shea butter skin benefits in a pumpable liquid format — easier to weigh and incorporate
| What is Shea Oil used for?A clear liquid shea-derived oil used in transparent and translucent skin care oils, hair care oils, and shower oils. Delivers moisturizing and conditioning benefits in a lightweight, pumpable liquid format that remains clear at room temperature. |
| How is it different from Shea Butter?Shea Butter is solid and produces opaque formulations. Shea Oil is liquid at room temperature (slip melting point 12°C, cloud point 18°C) and remains clear in most formulations up to 25% at temperatures of 15°C and above — making it the go-to choice for transparent oil formulations. |
| How much can be used while maintaining transparency?Up to 25% while maintaining clarity at 15°C and above. Typical use: 2–20% in skin care oils · 1–20% in hair care oils and shower oils. |
| Is it cold processable?Yes — suitable for cold or low energy processing. If stored in cold conditions, slight heating may be required to remove precipitation before use. |
| What are the key physical properties?Slip melting point 12°C · cloud point 18°C · unsaponifiable content 8% · slightly yellow clear liquid · low spreading. |
| Can it be used in hair care?Yes — 1–20% in hair care oils and leave-on treatments. Lightweight character makes it suitable for scalp and hair formulations without the heaviness of solid shea butter. |
Note: Shea Oil pairs exceptionally with INCI VAULT's Shea Butter Ethyl Esters for high-performance transparent body and hair oil formulations — Shea Oil adds moisturizing depth and skin conditioning while Shea Butter Ethyl Esters provides SPF-boosting UV filter dispersion and a fast-spreading elegant skin feel. Add T-70 Tocopherol at 0.5–1% to protect against oxidation and extend finished formulation shelf life.
