Raw vs. Refined shea butter

[MatthewDM]

Raw or refined shea butter, Which is better for CP soap making and why?

 

[The Efficacious Gentleman]

I would say "the cheapest" because I doubt anyone could tell the two apart once saponified.

As for what is really The Best, that depends on what you are looking to do. To one person, the raw is best for what they are looking to do. For another person, the refined is best for what they are looking to do.

 

[LunaSkye]

That would depend on the individual. I would stick to raw shea butter because I know what I'm getting: shea butter. I am not sure what refined shea butter is suppose to be (either bleached & deodorized or the liquid version) so I will not be trying it anytime soon.

 

[hmlove1218]

If it's only for soap, the raw is IMO the best. I only buy the refined for other products where the natural scent of the Shea can interfere with the fragrance

 

[Nevada]

Highly Refined Shea is better for making lotion sticks to avoid "graininess". It also helps to quickly chill in fridge/freezer.