Shea vs Cocoa vs Mango butter differences

Shea vs Cocoa vs Mango butter differences

Shea vs Cocoa vs Mango butter differences is wide.  So what is the biggest difference between Shea, Cocoa, and Mango butter?

The main difference between Shea, Cocoa, and Mango butter deals with their distinct composition of fatty acids.

Shea butter is composed of:
  •  92% oleic acid
  • 6% stearic acid
  • 1% linoleic acid

Oleic acid is an omega-9 fatty acid.

Stearic acid is saturated fat. 

Linoleic acid is an omega-6 essential polyunsaturated fatty acid (EFA).

Cocoa butter is composed of:
  • approximately 57%  stearic acid
  • 27%  oleic acid
  • 9% palmitic acid
Mango butter is composed of:  
  • 50% palmitic acid
  • 25% stearic acid

Palmitic acid is a saturated fat that can also be found in palm oil. 

There is one fatty acid difference between Shea and Mango butter – oleic acid vs stearic acid – so they have similar properties.
Oleic Acid (found in Shea and Cocoa butter) is important in cosmetics because:
  1. it is rich in essential fatty acid.  It also
  2. has emollient properties, making it
  3. effective in softening and moisturizing skin and hair.

Oleic acid can also be found in abundance in Olive oil, Macadamia oil, Pecan oil, Sunflower seed oil,  and Safflower oil.

Melting Point difference between: 
  • Cocoa butter has a melting point of 97-99°C,
  • Shea (45°C) 
  • Mango (78°C).

Cocoa butter is also slightly more resistant to oxidation than Shea butter.

 Mango butter is used in the cosmetic industry in formulations with high water levels (more than 20%).

The odor difference between Shea and Mango butter can be noticeable. However, there is no big difference between the two as far as benefits go if they are processed properly. Proper processing means that all heat-sensitive components (phytosterols, tocopherols, unsaponifiable) remain intact.

Cocoa Butter has a distinct odor and darker color than Shea and Mango butter.

Because of its lower melting point, it is more suitable for products that require a softer consistency at room temperature (like lip balms). This makes cocoa butter one of the most popular natural moisturizing ingredients among homemade cosmetic producers, especially making cosmetics like lip balms.

The cost difference between Shea, Cocoa, and Mango butter. Cocoa butter is more expensive than Shea and Mango butter.

Colors/Appearance of Shea, Cocoa, and Mango butter.
  • Shea butter has a pale yellow color that becomes lighter with time if stored properly
  • Cocoa butter is more of an off-white color
  • Mango butter appears slightly yellower than cocoa or shea

The Rooted Haven uses all three of these butter in many of its products.  

 

Shea Mango Cocoa butter
Shea Mango Cocoa butter

 

Scroll to Top