Cocoa butter, sometimes referred to as cacao butter, derives from cocoa beans. Though chocolate is often associated with its rich, brown color, cocoa butter is actually pale yellow in hue. That's because the butter comes from the aromatic fat extracted from the cocoa beans. Over the centuries, cocoa butter has been used in a variety of ways, including cosmetic use, as a tanning supplement and, most often, as a luxuriously thick, sweet-smelling lotion. Once applied, cocoa butter melts and absorbs into the skin with the help of the body's temperature.
Prevents and Treats Scars
Cocoa butter is commonly used by pregnant women who want to prevent stretch marks from appearing on their stomach and other areas of the body. It's also used to treat existing stretch marks by helping them fade at a faster rate. In addition to treating and preventing stretch marks, cocoa butter may be used to minimize the appearance of other scars, including old burns, cuts and scrapes.
Anti-Aging
Because cocoa butter is high in vitamin E, it works to soothe and hydrate the skin. This, in turn, improves the skin's collagen levels, which helps prevent wrinkles, fine lines and other signs of aging, including sun spots. It's often applied in small amounts around the eyes and lips to prevent crow's-feet and lip wrinkles.
Relieves Dry, Itchy Skin
In addition to preventing unwanted signs of aging and stretch marks, cocoa butter relieves dry and itchy skin. Because it absorbs into the skin quickly, it can provide almost instantaneous relief. This works best when applied directly to the affected area. It can even be used during a massage or you can add a spoonful to a hot bath and soak in the water. Cocoa butter may also help soothe sore muscles, says Botanical.com.
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