Mango Butter vs Shea Butter: Which One Does Your Skin Need?

Let’s talk butters. Specifically, mango vs shea — two of the most nourishing, skin-loving ingredients you’ll find in body care. I get asked a lot about the difference between them, and the truth is, they’re both incredible. But depending on your skin type, texture preference, and how you like your moisturiser to feel, you might prefer one over the other.

When I was creating our whipped body butters, I tested both — a lot. And while they each have their own strengths, one ended up being the better fit for the kind of product I wanted to make. So if you’ve ever wondered which butter is right for your skin (or just want to geek out on ingredients a little), this one’s for you.

Let’s start with shea butter

Shea is the go-to for lots of people — and for good reason. It’s rich, protective, and packed with fatty acids and vitamins that help soften and repair the skin. It’s especially amazing for:

• Rough patches (elbows, knees, heels)

• Dry, chapped hands

• Stretch marks or post-shave skin

• People who like a heavier, more occlusive feel

It’s creamy and deeply moisturising, but it does have a slightly greasier finish and a more noticeable scent. Some people love it. Others find it a bit too rich for daily use, especially in warmer months or on the face.

Now let’s talk about mango butter

Mango butter is a little more under the radar, but honestly? It’s become one of my favourite ingredients. It’s made from the kernel of the mango seed (not the fruit), and it has a lighter texture than shea — still rich, but silkier.

Here’s what makes it special:

• It melts into the skin without feeling heavy

• It absorbs quickly, with a velvety, non-greasy finish

• It’s great for dry skin that doesn’t love thick products

• It’s naturally fragrance-free, making it ideal for sensitive skin

It still provides deep nourishment and long-lasting moisture, but in a way that feels soft and breathable rather than thick or sticky.

So... which one’s better?

Honestly, it depends on what your skin needs — and what kind of experience you want.

Choose shea butter if:

• You love a rich, protective balm-like texture

• Your skin is very dry, cracked, or compromised

• You prefer something heavier for overnight use or winter

Choose mango butter if:

• You want something nourishing but lightweight

• You don’t love that “buttery” residue some butters leave behind

• You want a product that works year-round, even in warmer weather

Why I chose mango butter for our Whipped Body Butters

For me, it came down to texture. I wanted something that felt luxurious but also light. Something you’d look forward to using every day — not just when your skin was at its worst.

Mango butter gave me that. It melts in beautifully, doesn’t leave you feeling greasy, and plays really nicely with other calming ingredients like oat extract, calendula, and bisabolol. It’s rich, but not overwhelming. Comforting, but still elegant. And it works for a wide range of skin types — from dry to sensitive and everything in between.

If you’ve never tried mango butter before, I think you’ll be surprised by how soft and breathable it feels on the skin. It’s the kind of moisturiser that makes you want to slow down — even if just for a few seconds — and really enjoy the ritual.

Explore our Whipped Body Butters made with mango butter and calming botanical extracts for skin that feels comforted, nourished, and cared for — every single day.