Q & A: Shea Butter and Hair Care


Hi Tracey,

If I wanted to make a natural shampoo for my hair can I use Dr. Bronner’s soaps with my own added ingredients? I remember you said not to use soap on our hair. Is this product different from regular soaps?

How long can unrefine Shea Butter last if stored in a glass jar in the fridge? or what is the proper storage for Shea Butter?

My apartment is very hot (heat is not controlled by me). Would it be a good idea to invest in a bar fridge to store my essential oils and Shea Butter? In order to keep them cool.

Thanks for taking the time to answer my many questions!

Kind regards

S.

A: Hi S,

Thanks for asking such good questions.

If I wanted to make a natural shampoo for my hair can I use Dr. Bronner’s soaps with my own added ingredients? I remember you said not to use soap on our hair. Is this product different from regular soaps?

Perfect choice! The coarser and kinkier the hair, the more oil you can add to the DrB soap = up to 50% for very dry, kinky hair! DRB is simply the best soap - plus it's fair trade, local ingredients, socially responsible. I suggest rinsing the hair with plain water or filtered cool teas whenever you bathe or shower, and washing the hair with soap 1x week to 1x month. Hair can be washed with simple baking soda, too.

How long can unrefine Shea Butter last if stored in a glass jar in the fridge? or what is the proper storage for Shea Butter?

Refrigeration is a good approach. I should think it would last a few years depending on how it's handled. Shea butter is best stored in cool dry dark conditions - like inside a wooden chest. This is where I keep mine.

My apartment is very hot (heat is not controlled by me). Would it be a good idea to invest in a bar fridge to store my essential oils and Shea Butter? In order to keep them cool.

No, I think that would be costly for you and the environment AND unnecessary. Essential oils are fine in glass in the dark such as in a box or cupboard. Shea butter is traditionally kept in unlit grass roofed huts in woven baskets. See complete advice here. http://www.sheabutterweb.com/100sheabutter.html I do not suggest adding anything like vitamine E.

Take care!

Best, Tracey
Tracey TieF
Certified Natural Health Practitioner