Cocoa butter is a beloved ingredient in skincare and cosmetic formulations, prized for its rich, moisturising properties. However, if you’ve ever shopped for cocoa butter, you may have noticed there are two main types available: soft refined cocoa butter and raw brittle cocoa butter. While both offer exceptional benefits for skin and hair, they have distinct differences that influence their texture, scent, and best uses.
In this blog, we’ll explore what sets these two types of cocoa butter apart and how to choose the right one for your needs.
What is Raw Brittle Cocoa Butter (Raw/Natural)?
Raw brittle cocoa butter is the purest, unrefined form of cocoa butter. Extracted directly from cocoa beans, it undergoes minimal processing to retain its natural properties.
Characteristics of Raw Brittle Cocoa Butter
- Texture: Hard and brittle at room temperature, requiring melting before use.
- Colour: Ranges from pale yellow to deep golden, depending on the extraction method.
- Scent: Strong, natural chocolate aroma due to the unrefined nature of the butter.
- Nutrient Content: High in natural antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and vitamins that deeply nourish and protect the skin.
Best Uses for Raw Brittle Cocoa Butter
Raw cocoa butter is perfect for DIY skincare enthusiasts who want a natural, nutrient-rich ingredient. It is ideal for:
- Body butters and balms – Provides intense hydration and locks in moisture.
- Stretch mark prevention – Often used during pregnancy to help maintain skin elasticity.
- Lip balms and solid lotions – The hardness of the butter makes it an excellent base.
- Hair treatments – Helps to deeply condition and strengthen dry, brittle hair.
The only drawback? Its natural chocolate scent can sometimes overpower essential oils or other fragrances in formulations.
What is Soft Refined Cocoa Butter?
Soft refined cocoa butter is processed to remove impurities, scent, and colour, resulting in a more neutral and versatile ingredient.
Characteristics of Soft Refined Cocoa Butter
- Texture: Soft, creamy, and easier to work with at room temperature.
- Colour: Light cream or white due to the refining process.
- Scent: Mild or completely odourless, making it more versatile for skincare formulations.
- Nutrient Content: Still deeply moisturising but may lose some natural antioxidants during refining.
Best Uses for Soft Refined Cocoa Butter
This type of cocoa butter is an excellent choice for cosmetic and skincare products where a neutral base is preferred. It works well in:
- Lotions and creams – Blends smoothly and absorbs well without leaving a greasy feel.
- Fragranced skincare products – Won’t interfere with essential oils or perfumes.
- Massage butters – Provides a silky texture while being easy to spread.
- Soap making – Adds a luxurious feel to handmade soaps without the overpowering cocoa scent.
Which Cocoa Butter Should You Choose?
The choice between raw brittle cocoa butter and soft refined cocoa butter depends on your intended use:
- If you want maximum nutrients, a strong natural aroma, and a firmer texture, raw brittle cocoa butter is ideal.
- If you prefer a neutral, easy-to-use butter with no scent, soft refined cocoa butter is the better option.
Final Thoughts
Both types of cocoa butter offer incredible skin and hair benefits, but their differences make them suitable for different applications. Whether you’re crafting your own natural skincare products or formulating professional-grade cosmetics, understanding the properties of each will help you achieve the best results.
Would you like some DIY recipes using cocoa butter? Let us know in the comments below!
