Kokum butter has an unusual appearance, but is one of the most dynamic butters you can apply to your skin. However, to get the most out of it, it is first important to know how to use it. Texture wise, it shares many similarities with cocoa butter, but is more firm. When it comes into contact with the skin it feels light, but it does not have the greasy feel of other butters. Despite this, it is a highly effective moisturizer.
Kokum Butter Characteristics
This butter is derived from Indian tree fruit kernels. It contains a large amount of stearic acid which provides it with a number of characteristics. It will make substances firmer, including conditioners and lotions. This also means that it has a high degree of stability. In fact, Kokum butter has one of the highest stabilities of any of the butters, and when placed on a shelf can last for as long as two years. It doesn’t have much of a scent, which means it won’t interfere with other fragrances that may emanate from the products you make by hand.
You Can Use It To Butter Your Body
Kokum butter has a texture which makes it perfect for hydrating the body. It is firm which means it must be melted prior to whipping. Otherwise it will be excessively stiff, and works best when a small percentage of it is combined with avocado to bring greater balance.
It Can Be Used In The Form Of A Soap
Kokum butter can be included as an ingredient in soap (up to a maximum of 10 percent). It contains a large amount of stearic acid which means that using it at more than 10 percent can result in a soap that traces rapidly. Many people prefer using Kokum butter at about 5 percent, as it provides great moisturizing while leaving you with a bar that is firmer.
Kokum Butter Can Be Used As A Lotion
The large amount of stearic acid that is present within kokum butter makes it well suited as a lotion. It can also be used as a conditioner. However, you must be careful when using it for this purpose, as the highest concentrations can result in a formula that is thicker than desired. A lotion recipe for Kokum butter should be comprised no more than 3 percent. Some choose to reduce the presence of stearic acid which will result in a lotion that is both luxurious and acceptably thick.
Using Kokum Butter As A Balm
Kokum butter can be used as an ingredient in balm, for both the lips and body. It will be quite firm, which means that if you prefer a texture which is softer you will need to use it at no more than 5 percent. Kokum butter works great with a number of waxes, including candelilla wax and beeswax. Some also use it in conjunction with chia seed oil or sweet almond. This makes it into a very luscious balm.