Focus on the Power of Mango Butter in Cosmetics
Solid like shea butter, melting like chocolate, yet surprisingly light: mango butter, extracted from the kernel of the tropical fruit, is becoming increasingly intriguing to the dermo-cosmetics industry. It combines a high content of repairing lipids with a natural antioxidant fraction, all with remarkable tolerance. Here is everything you need to know to understand the appeal of this ingredient, which you may soon see everywhere.
1. Botanical origin and extraction process
Grown from India to Brazil, the mango tree, of the family anacardiaceae, provides a lipid-rich kernel. After separating the pulp, the kernels are cleaned, dried, and cold-pressed, followed by filtration, vacuum deodorization, and a gentle bleaching process. This process produces an ivory to pale yellow paste that is solid below 32°C and melts on contact with the skin, with a comedogenic rating of 0.
2. Composition: a balanced lipid cocktail.
Butter is dominated by:
- Saturated fatty acids : stearic, palmitic (approximately 50% %) film-forming and repairing effect.
- Oleic acid (omega-9) : similar to human sebum, it provides elasticity.
- Linoleic acid (omega-6) : support for the barrier function.
- Unsaponifiable fraction : phytosterols anti-inflammatory drugs, polyphenols antioxidants, tocopherols and squalene biomimicry.
3. Skin benefits
. Nutrition and emollience
Saturated fatty acids insert themselves between corneocytes, thereby strengthening the stratum corneum and reducing insensible water loss, which is ideal for dry or atopic skin.
. Strengthening of the hydrolipidic film
The combination of oleic acid and squalene quickly restores the lipid barrier, a natural shield against wind, temperature variations, and pollution.
. Antioxidant and anti-aging action
Polyphenols capture free radicals, slowing down collagen breakdown and the appearance of wrinkles; the skin retains its elasticity and radiance.
. Soothing properties
Phytosterols modulate the inflammatory response; regular application reduces redness and discomfort, particularly after sun exposure or climate change.
4. Benefits for hair fiber
- Core training : creation of a protective film that limits the evaporation of internal water.
- Prevention of split ends : the cemented cuticle is more resistant to mechanical damage.
- Gloss : smoothed cuticles, uniform light reflection.
- Antioxidant protection : slows down the effects of UV rays responsible for premature discoloration.
5. Common dosage forms
Lip balms, body butters, repair creams, nourishing hair masks, conditioners, and ultra-rich soaps.
Dosages between 2 % and 100 %, depending on the desired texture and area of application.
6. Tolerance and precautions
No documented contraindications except for specific allergies to mango trees. Suitable for children, pregnant women, and nursing mothers.
Store between 2°C and 8°C, away from light, to maintain antioxidant activity.
