The Crème de la Crème: 6 creams and lotions with shea butter

Shea butter has been used in lotions for many years, lip balms, shampoos, conditioners and more. Derived from the seeds of the shea fruit, the skin superfood is naturally rich in nutrients, vitamins and fatty acids. We love it for its ability to make our skin incredibly soft and smooth. However, not all shea butter products are the same, so be picky when choosing. Below is creme de la creme — literally — shea butter moisturizers. Warning: You may not be able to stop at one.

KIEHL'S ULTRA FACIAL DEEP MOISTER BALM

If your face is very dry, then it is best to bring a moisturizing balm with you to keep the scales under control. Check out this moisturizing balm, which contains shea butter, as well as edelweiss extract, glycerin and more for maximum skin hydration.

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Balm. MSRP $29.50.

LA ROCHE-POSAY TOLERIANE RICHE

Formulated with antioxidant thermal water and shea butter, this preservative-free, fragrance-free daily moisturizer nourishes and soothes skin without leaving a greasy feeling. It glides on smoothly and is specially formulated for dry and sensitive skin.

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Riche, $ 28.99

CAROL'S DAUGHTER ALMOND COOKIES WITH SHA SOFFLE

This non-greasy body moisturizer is suitable for dry to very dry skin. It contains shea butter, coconut oil, soybean and jojoba oils, aloe leaf juice and more. The list of what's not included is just as long: the formula is free of silicones, parabens, petroleum, mineral oil, and artificial colors.

Soufflé with Carol's Daughter macaroons, $ 12

KIEHL'S CREME DE CORPS SOY MILK AND HONEY WHIPPED BODY BUTTER

This decadent shea and jojoba body butter is light, rich, and can help repair and soften skin. For best results, apply to slightly damp skin after bathing or showering. With such a luxurious aroma, you might be tempted to eat it. But we strongly suggest that you do not.

Kiehl's Creme de Corps Whipped Body Butter with Soy Milk and Honey, $ 48

GARNIER SKINACTIVE SOOTHING 3-IN-1 FACE MOISTURIZER WITH ROSE WATER

This moisturizing face cream has a rich, creamy texture for a reason: it's infused with shea butter! It can be used in three ways: as a daytime moisturizer for hydration, a nighttime moisturizer for nourishment, and as a face mask. Bonus: It also contains rose water, one of our favorite skin care ingredients. 

Garnier SkinActive Rosewater 3-in-1 Soothing Facial Moisturizer. MSRP $11.99. 

KIEHL'S RICH MOISTURIZING HAND CREAM

Give your dry, chapped hands the hydration they've been asking for with this hand cream. Enriched with Shea Butter and Vitamin E, this rich and velvety formula will leave your skin soft and hydrated all day long. And to top it off, it boasts a light lavender botanical scent. 

Kiehl's Rich Moisture Hand Cream. MSRP $15.