Shea butter is fat that has been extracted from shea tree nuts. It is off-white or ivory-yellow colored and has a creamy consistency that is easy to spread on your skin. As an emollient, shea butter helps trap moisture in the skin. High concentrations of fatty acids and vitamins make shea butter an ideal cosmetic ingredient for softening skin. Shea butter also has anti-inflammatory and healing properties. Using shea butter on your body, especially your face, can condition, tone, and soothe your skin.