There are hundreds of moisturizing products on the market, but with so many choices, it can be hard to decide which lotion or cream works for you. For darker skin tones especially, body butters are a popular choice due to their nourishing oils and antioxidants. Here’s a guide to choosing a butter that works for your skin type.

• Cocoa butter: One of the most popular moisturizing butters, cocoa butter has been known to both moisturize and make the skin more elastic. Additionally, cocoa butter encourages the development of collagen to keep skin taut. Although many people use cocoa butter to treat stretch marks, no scientific backing exists for its efficacy.
• Shea butter: A fat extracted from the nut of the shea tree, shea butter has anti-inflammatory properties. This emollient is a better choice for irritated or damaged skin. Additionally, shea butter provides some UV protection, although it shouldn’t be used alone as a sunscreen.
• Mango seed butter: This less popular cream has similar properties to cocoa butter, but has a softer consistency. Additionally, mango seeds contribute nutrients like beta carotene and Vitamin E, which can give the skin a natural and healthy glow.
• Cupuacu butter: Most cupuacu butters are imported from Brazil, where the cupuacu tree grows. Along with moisturizing the skin and providing antioxidants, cupuacu butter is also useful for locking moisture into hair.

For more information on keeping your skin healthy, young and pliant, contact Zimmet Vein & Dermatology today.