Cocoa Butter vs. Shea Butter: What's the difference?

May 23, 2025

When it comes to natural skincare, two rich, velvety butters often take centre stage: cocoa butter and shea butter. Both are celebrated in the world of natural skincare for their ability to hydrate, nourish and transform the skin - but they’re not quite the same. Let's find out more about each one and what sets them apart.

Origins and Composition

Cocoa Butter

Source: Cocoa butter comes from the cacao tree (Theobroma cacao). The butter is extracted from the cacao beans, the same ones used to make chocolate.
Origin: Native to South and Central America but now cultivated globally in tropical regions.
Texture and Scent: Harder consistency with a rich, chocolatey aroma.
Nutrients: High in fatty acids (especially stearic, palmitic, and oleic acids), vitamin E, and natural plant compounds known as phytochemicals.

Shea Butter

Source: Derived from the nuts of the shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa).
Origin: Indigenous to West Africa.
Texture and Scent: Softer and creamier in texture, with a mild, nutty scent.
Nutrients: Rich in fatty acids (including oleic, stearic, linoleic, and palmitic acids), vitamins A and E, and allantoin, which has soothing and healing properties.

Benefits for the Skin

Cocoa Butter

Excellent Moisturiser: Creates a protective barrier that locks in moisture.
Improves Skin Elasticity: Often used to reduce stretch marks and scars.
Rich in Antioxidants: Helps neutralise free radicals, which can cause premature ageing.
Best For: Dry, flaky skin; prevention of stretch marks during pregnancy; improving skin tone and elasticity.

Shea Butter

Deeply Nourishing: Penetrates easily into the skin without clogging pores.
Anti-Inflammatory: Ideal for calming eczema, dermatitis, and irritated skin.
Healing Properties: Encourages cell regeneration and improves the appearance of wounds and blemishes.
Best For: Sensitive or acne-prone skin; conditions like eczema or psoriasis; soothing sunburn or inflammation.

ishga Products Containing Cocoa Butter and Shea Butter

Cocoa Butter

You’ll find this deeply moisturising ingredient in our bestselling Active Cleansing Lotion. The lightweight yet effective formula delivers visible results while remaining gentle on all skin types. Plus, it’s available in a convenient 30ml size - ideal for travel or keeping your skincare routine on hand wherever you go.

Shea Butter

You’ll find this natural, nourishing ingredient featured in several of our formulations, including the Hydra+ Marine Cream, Marine Cleansing Balm, Replenishing Lip Balm, and Invigorating Body Lotion. Each product harnesses its deeply hydrating and skin-softening properties to help soothe, protect and revitalise, delivering visible results across face and body.

As always, our products are certified organic, cruelty-free, and made with love in the Outer Hebrides. Explore our award-winning, luxurious skincare range designed to hydrate, nourish, and renew - the ishga way.

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