I like to think that stretch marks are a work of art on the gods’ favourites, but while some wear them as a badge of honour, they are stretch marks as a source of insecurity for some.
Cocoa butter and shea butter are popular natural fats derived from plants. They have been used as natural moisturisers or skincare ingredients for centuries and are known for their nourishing and healing qualities.
Suppose you are wondering which natural butter is better for your stretch marks; here’s a comparison of cocoa butter and shea butter based on benefits and effectiveness. Which of these plant-based naturals best soothe and fade stretch marks and moisturise the skin? Keep reading for answers.
Read Also: These Vaseline Body Oils Will Give You the Softest, Smoothest Skin.
What is Cocoa Butter?
Cocoa butter is a natural fat extracted from the cocoa bean (the cacao tree’s seed). It is a popular ingredient in skincare products because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Due to its highly effective composition, cocoa butter fades stretch marks over time and smoothens scars, wrinkles, and other skin marks.
Here are some body lotions and creams containing cocoa butter that reduce the appearance of stretch marks over time.
1. Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Massage Cream for Stretch Marks
Palmer’s Cocoa Butter stretch mark cream is praised for its effectiveness in fading stretch marks. Its rich moisturising formula improves skin elasticity. It is ideal for areas prone to stretch marks, such as the tummy, thighs, and hips, making it a popular choice for expectant mothers.
Price: $6.70. Where to Buy: Shop Amazon.
2. Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula
My co-worker raves about Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula as the best cocoa body butter due to its healing and hydrating benefits and healthy ingredients.
Price: ₦9,349 Where to Buy: Shop Coco Rosey.
3. Vaseline Intensive Care Cocoa Radiant
Vaseline Intensive Care Cocoa Radiant Lotion’s moisturising qualities can improve the skin’s elasticity and reduce the appearance of stretch marks over time.
Price: ₦12,850. Where to Buy: Shop Coco Rosey.
Does Cocoa Butter Work for Stretch Marks?
Many have praised cocoa butter for its intense hydration. However, despite popular belief that cocoa butter fades stretch marks, research published on PubMed found that:
“topical application of a lotion containing cocoa butter doesn’t appear to reduce the likelihood of developing stretch marks.”
Still, well-moisturised skin can reduce the possibility of elastic skin tearing when stretched and lessen the severity of new marks when formed. To maintain supple and hydrated skin, it is advisable to consistently apply lotions, creams, or oils containing cocoa butter.
Read Also: Shea Butter vs Cocoa Butter: Which Natural Moisturizer Performs Better?
What is Shea Butter?
I grew up using different body lotions and creams, but shea butter remained a constant in my household. From soothing the scalp and injuries to moisturising the skin, shea butter is the jack of all trades.
Shea butter is unique because of its healing, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties. It also contains SPF 3-4, which protects the skin from UV sun rays. Users recommend these body moisturisers because they effectively fade stretch marks.
1. Ori Shea Body Butter – Modara Naturals
Ori Shea Body Butter is rated by users for its effectiveness in softening the skin. A particular reviewer claimed it prevented stretch marks during pregnancy. It can be applied daily from head to toe and is safe for infants.
Price: ₦4,200. Where to Buy: Shop Modara Naturals.
2. Toke Natural Unrefined Shea Butter
Toke Natural Unrefined Shea Butter is a perfect option for those who want a quick and effective measure to fade stretch marks.
Price: ₦4,000. Where to Buy: Shop Toke Cosmetics.
2. Thermalabs Shea Body Butter
Users swear by Thermalabs Shea Body Butter for its pleasant scent and moisturising benefits. This body butter contains dead sea minerals and organic ingredients like shea butter. It is ideal for people with dry skin and pregnant women looking to prevent stretch marks.
Price: $38. Where to Buy: Shop Amazon.
Does Shea Butter Work for Stretch Marks?
Cocoa Butter vs Shea Butter: Which Is Better for Stretch Marks?
Hydration and Moisturisation
Both are deeply moisturising, hydrating, and long-lasting.
