BY NUBIAN ROC PUBLISHED: 23 March 2023
Cocoa Butter is a rich natural fat derived from the cacao beans contained inside the pods of the Cocoa Tree. This smooth emollient with a mild aroma has been used for centuries as a moisturizer that heals and protects skin and hair that is exposed to the harsh effects of the sun and the wind.
Benefits :
Prevents Skin Dryness and Peeling
Cocoa butter makes an excellent skin moisturizer, plus it does more than just hydrate the skin — it helps actually heal it from the inside out too. It’s a great source of natural antioxidants that are found in cocoa beans (the same kinds found in real, dark chocolate that are tied to benefits like heart health and improved cognitive functioning). Saturated fats are especially beneficial for healing dry, cracked skin because they’re easily absorbed and remain on the skin for hours.
Heals Chapped Lips
One of the most popular ways to use cocoa butter is on the lips. Cocoa butter is an emollient, which means it adds a protective layer of hydration to your lips, useful for blocking the effects of very cold temperatures, sun damage or indoor heat, which can leave your lips dry.
Fights Signs of Aging
Cocoa butter contains compounds called cocoa mass polyphenols, which some studies have found can help diminish signs of aging, plus soothe sensitive skin suffering from dermatitis or rashes.
Helps Treat Mouth Sores
If the inside of your mouth is prone to developing painful sores or your lips develop recurring blisters, use a bit of cocoa butter to keep them moisturized.
Makes a Great Shaving Cream
You can use cocoa butter in your tub to shave and hydrate skin at the same time. It melts easily in warm water and won’t clog your drain. Use a small handful before shaving to prevent nicks and to leave just-shaven skin feeling nice and smooth. After showering is another great time to slather it on, since heat opens up pores and makes it absorb products better.
Reduce Stretch Marks
One of the most popular uses for cocoa butter is preventing or improving the visibility of stretch marks.
Soothes Burns, Rashes and Infections
Rub a small amount of pure cocoa butter into burnt skin to help skin replenish. Just make sure it’s pure and doesn’t contain any alcohol, fragrances/perfumes or other additives that can lead skin to become even more inflamed and sensitive.
It’s is even gentle enough to be used as a natural treatment for eczema or dermatitis. It’s also a rash natural remedy. Aloe Vera gel or tea tree essential oil are two great additions for applying to burnt or sensitive skin.
How to Use Raw Cocoa Butter :
If you prefer the more liquid texture of pure cocoa butter, blend it with coconut oil to get its tropical smell. If you have extra sensitive, dry skin (such as eczema), always use pure cocoa butter. If your cocoa butter is very solid due to being stored in your home in a cool place, try combining it with a bit of hot water to make it melt. You can boil some water on the stove and then pour it onto a handful of cocoa butter to make it more spreadable.You can also use the following method:
- Put cocoa butter in a heat-safe glass mixing bowl. Place the bowl in the microwave; do not cover.
- Microwave the cocoa butter for 20 to 30 seconds.
- Stir the cocoa butter with a spoon. If the cocoa butter isn’t fully melted, keep microwaving it at 10 second intervals until fully melted.
