The Shea Moisture Journey

Shea Moisture has been a significant brand in the curly hair community, known for their use of natural ingredients and commitment to textured hair care. However, two major topics dominate discussions about the brand: the 2017 Unilever acquisition and product suitability for different hair types.

The Unilever Acquisition

In 2017, Unilever acquired Sundial Brands, Shea Moisture's parent company, for an estimated $1.6 billion. This acquisition sparked significant discussion in the curly hair community:

Community Concerns

• Formula Changes: Many long-time users report changes in product formulations
• Quality Consistency: Some products seem to vary batch-to-batch
• Corporate Influence: Concerns about maintaining the brand's original mission
• Accessibility vs. Authenticity: While distribution has increased, some feel the brand has lost its roots

Brand Response

Shea Moisture has maintained that they:

• Continue to use quality natural ingredients
• Remain committed to their core community
• Have improved product availability
• Maintain their ethical sourcing practices

Product Weight and Hair Types

A common topic in curly hair forums is product weight, particularly for those with low porosity hair:

Why Weight Matters

Heavy products can:

• Weigh down curls
• Cause buildup
• Make hair appear greasy
• Reduce volume
• Increase the need for clarifying

Shea Moisture's Formulations

Most Shea Moisture products contain:

• Heavy butters (shea butter, cocoa butter)
• Rich oils (coconut oil, castor oil)
• Multiple moisturizing ingredients

This makes them potentially:

• Great for: High porosity, coarse, or very dry hair
• Challenging for: Fine, low porosity, or easily weighed-down hair

The Curl Smoothie: A Community Favorite

Despite concerns about formula changes and product weight, the Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie remains one of the most beloved products in the curly hair community. This thick, creamy styling cream is particularly popular because:

• Versatility: Works as both a leave-in and styler
• Moisture: Provides long-lasting hydration
• Definition: Helps enhance natural curl pattern
• Value: A little goes a long way
• Accessibility: Widely available at various price points

However, like most Shea Moisture products, the Curl Smoothie works best for:

• Medium to thick hair textures
• High porosity hair
• Those needing intense moisture
• Type 3 and 4 curls

For fine or low porosity hair, try using it:

• As an occasional deep treatment
• Mixed with water to dilute
• Only on the ends of hair
• In very small amounts

Making Shea Moisture Work for You

If you want to try Shea Moisture products:

1. Know Your Hair Type:

   • Take our porosity quiz
   • Consider your hair's density and strand thickness
   • Understand your moisture needs

2. Application Tips for Lighter Results:

   • Use less product than suggested
   • Apply to very wet hair
   • Focus on ends, avoid roots
   • Dilute products with water
   • Use as occasional deep treatments rather than daily products

3. Product Selection:

   • Look for their lighter lines (products with "weightless" or "fine hair" in the name)
   • Avoid products with multiple butters and oils in the first few ingredients
   • Consider using their styling products rather than leave-ins
   • Check ingredients using our analyzer

Alternative Options

If Shea Moisture proves too heavy, here are some lighter alternatives our community has had success with:

1. Lighter Products We Recommend:

   • MopTop Light Conditioner - specifically formulated for low porosity hair
   • Innersense I Create Volume - great for adding volume without weight
   • Kristin Ess Curl Shampoo - gentle cleansing for low/normal porosity hair

2. Other Brands to Consider:

   • Jessicurl
   • Giovanni
   • Kinky-Curly
   • Not Your Mother's Naturals

3. Product Types to Look For:

   • Water-based formulas
   • Gel-based stylers
   • Foam products
   • Lightweight leave-ins

The Bottom Line

Shea Moisture can be an excellent choice for some hair types, particularly those needing intense moisture. However, if you have fine or low porosity hair, you might need to:

• Be selective about which products you choose
• Modify your application technique
• Consider lighter alternatives

Remember that what works for others may not work for you. Always check ingredients and consider your hair's specific needs when choosing products.