4 Reasons to Avoid Shea Butter for Curly Hair

Hey hermanas, we all love natural ingredients, but not every popular choice works well for curly hair. Did you know shea butter is one of those ingredients? While shea butter is very popular in the beauty world, when it comes to curly hair, it might not always be the best choice.

We went beyond removing silicones, sulfates and parabens from our products by co-developing all our formulas. That's why we created our own NADA (nothing) list. Our NADA list is composed of common hair care ingredients that aren't good for our curls, and we never use.

Let’s dive into why we say no to shea butter in our formulations:

1. Heavy and Greasy: Shea butter is thick and rich, which can be a double-edged sword for curly hair. While it’s incredibly moisturizing, it’s also very heavy. This heaviness can weigh down your curls, making them look flat and greasy, especially if your hair is fine or low porosity. The last thing you want is for your curls to lose their natural bounce and volume.
2. Difficult to Wash Out: Shea butter’s rich consistency means it can be stubborn when it comes to washing it out. It can cling to your hair, leading to product buildup that dulls your curls and makes them harder to manage. Over time, this buildup can also attract dirt and debris, potentially leading to scalp issues like clogged follicles or dandruff.
3. May Block Moisture: While shea butter is great at sealing in moisture, it can also create a barrier that prevents your hair from absorbing new moisture. If you’re not careful, this can lead to dry, brittle curls over time. Curly hair thrives on a balanced moisture routine, and shea butter’s sealing properties might disrupt this balance, leaving your curls thirsty and undernourished.
4. Not Ideal for All Curl Types: Shea butter can be too much for certain curl types, particularly those with finer or low-porosity hair. It’s important to remember that what works for one type of curl might not work for another. Shea butter’s dense texture can overwhelm delicate curls, leaving them feeling heavy and lifeless.

While shea butter has its place in hair care, it’s important to use it mindfully, especially if you have curly hair. Consider lighter alternatives like avocado oil or argan oil, which we use in our formulations and provide moisture without the downsides of shea butter.

Here’s to keeping your curls light, bouncy, and nourished!

Are you looking for hydrating and moisturizing products to help you get started on your curly hair journey? Order your free Ocoa samples. If you are a new customer use code GRATIS at checkout.