How to Use Shea Butter on Your Face

Warm a small amount between your palms and press into clean, slightly damp skin as your final moisturizing step.

Shea butter is the ultimate no-nonsense moisturizer that actually works, but most people use way too much and wonder why their skin feels like an oil slick.

1. Start with clean skin. Cleanse your face first. Shea butter works best on fresh skin, not over makeup or daytime buildup.
2. Use barely-damp skin. Pat your face with a damp towel after cleansing. The slight moisture helps shea butter spread and absorb instead of sitting heavy.
3. Warm it properly. Take a pea-sized amount and rub between your palms for 10-15 seconds. Raw shea butter needs body heat to become workable.
4. Press, don't rub. Gently press the warmed butter into your skin using your palms. Focus on dry areas like cheeks and avoid aggressive rubbing which can irritate.
5. Let it absorb. Wait 5-10 minutes before applying anything else. Your skin will drink it in and feel soft, not greasy.