Frequently asked questions

Understanding Our Products

What are the benefits of using shea butter for my skin? Shea butter is a nutrient-dense plant fat that acts as a natural powerhouse. It deeply moisturizes, protects the skin barrier, and provides a soothing touch for irritated or dry areas.

Is your shea butter refined or unrefined? We only use unrefined (raw) shea butter. Unlike refined versions, which are often processed with chemicals or high heat, our unrefined butter keeps all its natural healing properties and vitamins intact.

Where does your shea butter come from? Our journey begins in Northern Ghana, West Africa, where we source our raw material responsibly to support local communities and ensure the highest quality.

Why does the shea butter have a distinct scent? Just like a fine cold-pressed olive oil, raw shea has its own earthy, nutty aroma. This scent can vary slightly with each harvest. In our blended products, this scent is very subtle.

Who are EcoShea products designed for? Our range is for everyone—especially minimalists, nature lovers, and those with dry or sensitive skin who want to know exactly what they are putting on their bodies.

What is "water-free" (anhydrous) skincare? Most lotions are mostly water. Our products contain zero water, meaning they are highly concentrated and full of active ingredients. This also means we don't need to use synthetic emulsifiers or harsh preservatives.

Are your products certified organic? Yes. Every product is certified according to the COSMOS Organic Standard.

Why did you choose the COSMOS certification? It is the international gold standard for organic and natural cosmetics. It ensures that our products meet the highest ethical and environmental standards across 70 countries.

What is the shelf life of the products? Our products stay fresh for 24 to 36 months. You can find the specific date on the product page or the packaging itself.

Do you use preservatives or emulsifiers? No. Because our products are water-free, bacteria cannot grow in them. We use only Vitamin E (Tocopherol) to keep the oils stable while providing extra nourishment for your skin.

Do you use microplastics or other questionable fillers? Absolutely not. Our formulas are entirely free of microplastics, mineral oils, and any substances harmful to your health or the planet.

Are your products vegan? Yes. Every EcoShea product is 100% plant-based and vegan-friendly.

Do you test on animals? Never. Neither our raw materials nor our finished products are ever tested on animals.

Are your products gluten-free? Almost all of them! The only exception is our Hand Balm. All other products are completely gluten-free.

Do you use palm oil? No. We are 100% palm oil-free.

Are there synthetic fragrances in your products? No. We never use synthetic perfumes. Any scent comes from natural essential oils or the raw ingredients themselves.

Do you offer fragrance-free options? Yes! We offer three options for those with extra-sensitive skin: our Pure Shea Butter, Unscented Body Butter, and Unscented Face Balm.

Are your products dermatologically tested? Yes, all our products undergo dermatological testing to ensure they are safe for skin contact.

Do you offer tester or sample sizes? No. We intentionally avoid small sample sizes to reduce plastic waste. If you aren’t happy with a product, we offer a 30-day money-back guarantee.

What is your packaging made of? We use glass or aluminum jars with aluminum lids. For our outer boxes, we use FSC-certified sustainable cardboard.

Is your packaging recyclable? Yes. Both our glass and aluminum jars are fully recyclable.

Why don’t you have a refill system? Cleaning out a water-free, oil-rich jar requires a lot of heat and water, which isn't very eco-friendly. Additionally, our specific filling process doesn't currently allow for refills, so recycling the jars is the most sustainable option.

Application & Skin Care Tips

How do I apply water-free products? Since they are concentrated, a little goes a long way. Scoop a small amount, warm it between your palms until it melts into a golden oil, and massage it into your skin.

Why does my skin feel oily after application? This usually means you've used a bit too much! Because there is no water, you only need a fraction of what you would use with a standard lotion.

What can I use EcoShea products for? Our body butters are versatile "all-rounders" for head-to-toe care. Our face balms are specifically formulated with extra actives for facial skin.

What skin types are these best for? They work for everyone, but they are especially beloved by those with dry, mature, or very sensitive skin.

I have very sensitive skin. Can I still use them? Yes, though we always recommend a patch test on your inner forearm first to ensure compatibility.

Are these suitable for conditions like eczema or rosacea? While many customers have had great success, these are medical conditions. We recommend speaking with your dermatologist before trying a new routine.

Can I use the body products on my face? Technically, yes. However, our Face Balms have a lighter texture and higher concentrations of active ingredients specifically chosen for facial care.

Are these safe to use during pregnancy? Yes! Our Unscented Body Butter is a perfect, gentle choice for nourishing stretching skin during pregnancy.

Can I use these on my children or babies? Absolutely. For little ones, we recommend our unscented products or our Lavender Body Butter for a calming effect.

I had a reaction to the product. Why? While rare, individual skin sensitivities can happen suddenly. It doesn’t mean the product is "bad," but rather that your skin has a specific intolerance to an ingredient. Always perform a patch test if you are prone to reactions.

Why is it better to apply to damp skin? Applying the oil to damp skin (right after a shower) helps lock in that moisture and allows the product to absorb even more deeply.

How should I store my products? Keep them in a cool, dark place. Your bathroom cabinet is perfect—no need for the refrigerator!

My product melted in the heat! Is it ruined? Not at all. If the product gets above 40°C, it may liquefy and then reset with a slightly grainy texture. This doesn't change the quality or effectiveness; it’s just a sign of a truly natural, stabilizer-free.