Cocoa Butter Benefits

In order to make an informed decision on how to best serve our aesthetic needs through the addition of cocoa butter to our routines, we must first understand just what exactly it is. When we hear cocoa, we immediately think of chocolate, but are left wondering how cocoa butter is anything similar. They are both made from cocoa beans (harvested from the cocoa fruit) and follow surprisingly similar processes, where they are eventually cleansed, roasted, stripped, and milled into cocoa mass. At this point, the cocoa mass, or cocoa liquor, goes on to make two products: chocolate and cocoa butter. The cocoa liquor is pressed at high temperatures to separate the fat, forming cocoa butter (the fat) and cocoa powder (the nonfat). The cocoa butter at this point is used for beauty products such as lotions and scrubs, but is also reintegrated into the chocolate process, giving it that melt-in-your-mouth consistency. So whether you want to involve cocoa butter into your daily life by using it as a moisturizer or stuffing your face with chocolate, we don’t judge you either way.

Probably the most widely acclaimed benefit of cocoa butter is its incredible moisturizing qualities that leave the skin feeling rejuvenated and bright. You see it advertised on many beauty labels to legitimize their products, proving the extent to which people trust the effectiveness of cocoa butter. It is a product that people can always rely on. Not only does it hydrate the skin, but it helps heal it as well due to the number of antioxidants within. Because it’s a saturated fat, it is easily absorbed by the skin and stays on for a greater period of time than other moisturizers. Most importantly, because cocoa butter is an all-natural product, it is safer for those with sensitive skin and works well for all ages.

The lips are the one place on the body that aren’t naturally moisturized, leaving us to lip balms and glosses to keep them hydrated. Because many lip balms are subject to added chemicals and inflated prices, it can be worth a try to create your own chapstick with a cocoa butter infusion. This is a fun DIY project to do with friends and may even result in a permanent switch over to your homemade lip balm recipe. If making your own isn’t for you, there are still many brands that utilize cocoa butter within their products that will do well to keep your lips fresh all day.

Cocoa butter contains cocoa mass polyphenols, which work to, according to several studies, reduce the signs of aging. This is monumental for the beauty industry because many people can now improve their complexion and slow the aging process. Cocoa polyphenols specifically have been linked to the amelioration of skin tone and elasticity, collagen retention, and hydration.

An alternative to shaving cream, take a dollop of cocoa butter and spread it on your legs before shaving in the shower. It melts readily in hot water and goes down the drain uneventfully, making it a convenient choice. On top of that, it works well to prevent razor slips and skin irritation.

A little-known fact, cocoa butter is known to decrease inflammatory markers that lead to the hardening of the arteries. In other words, cocoa butter is beneficial to your heart. The same polyphenols that work topically to produce anti-aging effects also label cocoa as an anti-inflammatory food. It is important, however, to consider that even though cocoa butter has many antioxidants, its sister product, cocoa powder, has a much higher content.

Many struggle to find relief from common skin ailments such as eczema, rashes, and sunburns. By applying a small amount to the afflicted area, you can speed up the healing process of your skin. Be sure that there are no extra ingredients such as fragrances and alcohols though, as that may dramatize the condition.

Cocoa butter is a godsend for your hair, resurrecting any problems you have with it while enhancing its texture as well. In summary, cocoa butter is a glorious supplement to your hair because it moisturizes your hair, in turn making it more manageable (especially for those with thick hair), reduces hair loss due to breakage, strengthens the hair shaft, heightens volume, replenishes natural oils lost from harsh methods (i.e. heat), repairs damage, and can prevent further damage from occurring.

Cocoa butter is a luxe ingredient that can lead to successful relaxation, whether you wish to drop a couple of spoonfuls in your bath or hope to implement it into your aromatherapy schedule. It has a rich and chocolaty aroma, making it easy to close your eyes and drift off during your treatment.

The consumption of cocoa products aids in healthy bowel movements to keep discomfort at a minimum. Cocoa is currently being tested in its ability to mitigate the effects of chronic bowel movement diseases.

While many know cocoa products to make people feel happy, it’s lesser-known research that there’s a scientific reason behind this blanket statement; cocoa butter raises the level of the neurotransmitters endorphins and serotonin in your brain which affects your mood. The release of these chemicals causes you to feel happy and energized, ready to take on the challenges that the world throws at you. After all, everyone needs a little cocoa in their life.