Cocoa Butter for Face: Say goodbye to dry skin this winter with this natural moisturizer

If you like sweets, cocoa butter probably makes you think of chocolate. This natural fat is a key ingredient in several desserts, from chocolate bars to finger-licking delicious cakes to chocolate-flavored ice cream. It is also a key ingredient in multiple skin care and hair care products. In fact, many people, especially those with dry skin and hair, use products containing this ingredient to help maintain moisture. Since dryness is a concern during the cold season, it would be a good idea to incorporate it into your winter skin care routine. But there are even more benefits to using cocoa butter on the face.

What is cocoa butter?

It is a pale yellow natural substance extracted from cocoa beans, which are the seeds of the cocoa tree. According to a study published in Food Journal in 2020, this butter is a triglyceride, a type of fat. “The thick, creamy substance with a subtle chocolate scent is widely used in skin care products such as lotions, creams, and lip balms,” he says. Dermatologist Dr. Shifa Yadav.

To extract cocoa butter, also known as theobroma oil, beans are removed from large cocoa trees. The beans are then roasted, peeled and pressed, after which the cocoa butter is separated. The rest is processed into cocoa powder. It is available as an unrefined block and as an active ingredient in skin care products and hair conditioners.

What are the benefits of cocoa butter for the face?

Here’s why you should use cocoa butter on your face:

1. Moisturizes your skin

Honey is considered a preferred natural emollient for many people with dry skin. Cocoa butter can also be used on the face as it is a popular natural emollient. “When applied, it forms a protective barrier on the skin, locking in moisture and preventing dryness. “This is especially helpful for people with dry or dehydrated skin,” says the expert.

2. Anti-aging effect

It may help prevent premature skin aging. A 2022 study published in the journal Molecules showed that flavonoids in cocoa, such as epicatechin, had anti-aging effects in rodents. Using cocoa butter on your face may improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. “This is because it is rich in fatty acids that help nourish and plump the skin,” says Dr. Yadav.

3. Anti-inflammatory effect

Use cocoa butter on your face as it may have anti-inflammatory properties. Because of this, this ingredient can help soothe irritated skin. “This may be particularly beneficial for people with conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, which cause rashes and itching,” the experts say.

4. Contains antioxidants

Cocoa butter helps protect your skin from damage caused by free radicals, unstable molecules known to cause premature aging. This protection may be possible because cocoa components have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that are beneficial to the skin, according to a study published in the journal Nutrients in 2014.

5. Sunscreen

Cocoa butter contains natural compounds that may provide some protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays. According to a study published in the journal Nutrients in 2014, cocoa has photoprotective properties that help combat the harmful effects of sunlight. “However, it is important to note that cocoa butter alone is not a sufficient sunscreen and should not be used as an alternative to a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 or higher,” experts say. I’m pointing it out.

When should you use cocoa butter on your face?

Cocoa butter can be used on the face day and night. “However, it may be more beneficial to apply it before bed, as this allows your skin to absorb nutrients other than moisture from cocoa butter during the night,” says the expert. When you wake up the next morning, your skin will feel moisturized and nourished.

“Regular use of cocoa butter on your face may improve the overall texture and tone of your skin, making it softer and more radiant,” says Dr. Yadav. Masu.

How to choose cocoa butter for the face?

When choosing cocoa butter for your face, consider the following tips:

• purity: Look for 100 percent pure cocoa butter with no added ingredients or fragrances, as they can irritate the skin.
• skin type: If you have oily skin, look for a non-comedogenic cocoa butter that won’t clog your pores.
• additional ingredients: Some cocoa butter products contain other beneficial ingredients such as shea butter, vitamin E, and essential oils. Choose one that suits your skin’s needs or seek advice from your doctor, especially if you have sensitive skin.
• patch test: Before using cocoa butter on your face, do a patch test on a small area of ​​your skin to check for any allergic reactions.

How can I use cocoa butter on my face?

Although you can apply cocoa butter blocks directly to your face, we recommend using skin care products that contain cocoa butter as a main ingredient. Because butter blocks have a high consistency, they can clog pores and cause acne, especially if you have oily skin.

• Wash your face thoroughly with water and a gentle cleanser.
• Apply a small amount of a product containing cocoa butter to your fingertips.
• Massage gently into the skin in circular motions, paying special attention to dry areas.
• Allow cocoa butter to fully absorb before applying makeup or going to bed.

What are the side effects of using cocoa butter on the face?

Although using cocoa butter on the face is safe for most people, some people may experience side effects such as:

• outbreak of acne: Excessive use of cocoa butter can clog pores and cause breakouts in some people, especially those with oily or acne-prone skin.
• allergic reaction: Some people are allergic to cocoa butter, which can cause rashes and itching.
• skin irritation: Be careful when using cocoa butter on your face as it can irritate your skin, especially if you apply it too thick or if your skin is already irritated.

Cocoa butter can also be used on the face as it has benefits for the skin. However, it is important to use it correctly and be aware of the potential side effects of this natural substance. Consult your doctor if you experience any side effects from using this fat.