Is mango butter inflammatory? Unpacking its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties for skin

November 1, 2025 •

5 min read

Contrary to some misconceptions, mango butter is not inflammatory; in fact, multiple studies highlight its significant anti-inflammatory activity. This rich, exotic fat, derived from the mango seed, is packed with beneficial compounds that actually help to soothe and calm irritated skin.

Quick Summary

Mango butter, extracted from mango seeds, possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties due to its rich composition of beneficial fatty acids, polyphenols, and antioxidants. This nourishing emollient deeply moisturizes and soothes irritated skin, and is suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin.

Key Points

Anti-Inflammatory Action: Mango butter contains polyphenols and phytosterols that provide significant anti-inflammatory effects, helping to soothe and calm irritated skin.
Rich in Fatty Acids: Essential fatty acids like oleic and linoleic acid help restore the skin's lipid barrier, locking in moisture and reducing inflammation.
Antioxidant Power: Packed with vitamins A, C, and E, it offers powerful antioxidant protection against free radical damage that can trigger inflammatory responses.
Gentle & Lightweight: As a non-comedogenic, lightweight emollient, it is easily absorbed and suitable for sensitive skin, unlike heavier butters.
Caution for Oily Skin: While generally low-risk, its occlusive properties mean it can trap oils and sweat, so those with acne-prone or very oily skin should use it cautiously on the face.
Supports Skin Healing: Traditionally used to address various skin irritations, including eczema, psoriasis, rashes, and cracked skin.

Understanding Mango Butter: An Overview

Mango butter is a natural fat derived from the cold-pressed kernels of the mango fruit, Mangifera indica. Unlike many commercial butters, it is celebrated for its lightweight, non-greasy texture that melts upon contact with the skin. This makes it a prized ingredient in the cosmetics and skincare industry, where it is used in everything from body butters and lotions to lip balms and hair products. The butter is rich in a variety of beneficial components, including fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants, which contribute to its restorative and protective qualities. Its creamy consistency, coupled with a mild, sometimes odorless, scent, makes it a versatile and gentle option for many topical applications.

The Extraction Process

The creation of mango butter involves several key steps that are crucial for producing a high-quality product. The process begins with the harvesting of mango seeds, which are typically collected as a byproduct of mango fruit processing. The kernels are then cleaned, dried, and cold-pressed to extract the fat. This mechanical process avoids high heat and chemical solvents, which helps preserve the butter's valuable nutrients and beneficial properties. Some variants may be further refined to produce a product with a more uniform color and texture, although unrefined versions contain a higher concentration of beneficial unsaponifiable matter.

Is Mango Butter Inflammatory? The Evidence

The claim that mango butter is inflammatory is a common misconception, contradicted by both its chemical profile and documented effects. The evidence points to the opposite conclusion: mango butter is rich in compounds that possess significant anti-inflammatory properties. The key lies in its unique composition, particularly its high content of fatty acids and plant-based antioxidants known as polyphenols and phytosterols.

Fatty Acids: Oleic acid (omega-9) and linoleic acid (omega-6), both abundant in mango butter, have been shown to help strengthen the skin's natural barrier and reduce inflammation.
Polyphenols: Powerful plant compounds such as catechin and quercetin are found in mango seed butter and act as antioxidants, neutralizing free radicals that can cause cellular damage and inflammation.
Phytosterols: These plant-based molecules contribute directly to mango butter's anti-inflammatory effects by helping to soothe and calm irritated skin.

These components work synergistically to provide a soothing effect, making mango butter a valuable ingredient for managing conditions characterized by redness, itching, and dryness, such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.

The Anti-Inflammatory Compounds in Mango Butter

Oleic Acid (Omega-9): A monounsaturated fatty acid that helps improve skin hydration and barrier function, reducing transepidermal water loss.
Linoleic Acid (Omega-6): A polyunsaturated fatty acid that plays a crucial role in supporting cellular repair and reducing inflammation.
Polyphenols: Including catechin and gallic acid, which protect skin cells from oxidative stress and help preserve skin structure.
Vitamins A, C, and E: These vitamins act as potent antioxidants, neutralizing free radicals and supporting overall skin health.

Mango Butter vs. Other Natural Butters

When evaluating natural butters for skincare, it's helpful to compare mango butter's properties against other popular options like shea and cocoa butter. While all are excellent emollients, they differ in texture, absorption rate, and specific benefits, which can influence their suitability for various skin types and concerns.


Feature	Mango Butter	Shea Butter	Cocoa Butter
Inflammatory Risk	Low. Rich in anti-inflammatory polyphenols and fatty acids.	Low. Generally considered safe, but some sensitive individuals may react.	Low. Not known to be inflammatory, but richer texture may cause issues for some.
Texture	Lighter, creamy, and non-greasy. Melts easily on contact with skin.	Richer, thicker, and softer than mango butter.	Hard and brittle at room temperature, requiring more effort to melt.
Absorption Rate	Absorbs quickly without leaving a heavy, oily residue.	Absorbs more slowly than mango butter, providing a longer-lasting barrier.	Absorbs slowly due to its density.
Comedogenic Rating	Low (rated 2). Generally non-comedogenic, but those with oily/acne-prone skin should use caution.	Low (rated 0). Considered non-comedogenic and gentle for facial use.	High (rated 4). Known for clogging pores, not ideal for acne-prone skin.
Ideal For	Daily use, all skin types, especially sensitive or dry skin.	Intense overnight repair, very dry/cracked skin, and winter use.	Targeting scars and stretch marks, providing a thick protective layer.

Conclusion: Embracing the Calming Benefits

Far from being inflammatory, mango butter is a powerful, natural ingredient with demonstrated anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. Its rich content of fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants works to hydrate and repair the skin's barrier, calm irritation, and protect against environmental damage. While its lightweight, non-greasy nature makes it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin, those with very oily or acne-prone skin should consider its occlusive properties and test it with caution. Ultimately, for anyone seeking a nourishing, natural emollient to soothe and moisturize the skin, mango butter offers a compelling and effective solution.

For more in-depth information on natural ingredient sourcing and market trends, consider exploring the resources provided by organizations like CBI, which focuses on sustainable trade practices.(https://www.cbi.eu/market-information/natural-ingredients-cosmetics/mango-butter/market-potential)

Practical Uses and Considerations

Daily Moisturizer: Apply a small amount of mango butter to your hands and rub them together to melt it before applying to the body for all-over hydration.
Targeted Treatment: Use on problem areas like elbows, knees, or feet to soothe and repair dry, cracked skin.
Hair and Scalp Care: Work a small amount into the hair and scalp to moisturize and condition, and reduce dryness.
Post-Sun Exposure: The soothing properties make it beneficial for calming and hydrating skin after sun exposure, though it is not a substitute for sunscreen.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While generally safe for topical use, there are a few considerations to keep in mind.

Allergic Reactions: In rare cases, some individuals with mango allergies may experience contact dermatitis. The mango skin and sap contain urushiol, the same compound found in poison ivy. While mango butter is typically made from the seed and should be free of urushiol, caution is still advised for those with severe sensitivities. A patch test is always recommended before full application.
Acne-Prone Skin: For individuals with oily or acne-prone skin, the occlusive nature of mango butter could potentially trap sweat, dirt, and oil, possibly exacerbating breakouts. Experts recommend that those prone to acne avoid applying butters and heavy oils to the face.

Overall, mango butter's role is not inflammatory, but rather restorative and calming. Its ability to moisturize, protect, and soothe makes it a star ingredient in natural skincare.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mango butter is considered non-comedogenic, meaning it is unlikely to clog pores for most people, with a low rating on the comedogenic scale. However, because it is an occlusive ingredient that creates a barrier, those with very oily or acne-prone skin should use it cautiously on the face, as it could potentially trap sweat and dirt.

Mango butter is often considered a great choice for sensitive skin because of its lightweight, non-greasy feel and hypoallergenic properties. Some individuals with sensitive skin find shea butter to be too rich or intense, but both are excellent moisturizers.

Yes, mango butter has been traditionally used to help manage symptoms of eczema and psoriasis. Its anti-inflammatory properties, combined with its ability to deeply moisturize and repair the skin barrier, can help alleviate the dryness, itching, and redness associated with these conditions.

To apply mango butter, scoop a small amount with your fingers. Rub it between your palms to melt and soften the butter. Then, massage it into your skin in circular motions. It absorbs quickly, leaving a smooth, hydrated finish.

Mango butter is extracted from the seed kernel, not the tree nut. However, since mangoes belong to the same family as poison ivy, some individuals with allergies may still have a sensitivity. The risk of an allergic reaction to mango butter is generally low, but a patch test is recommended before use, especially for those with severe allergies.

Mango butter is a natural fat extracted from the seeds (kernels) of the mango fruit, Mangifera indica. It is typically produced via a cold-pressing method, which helps preserve its beneficial nutrients and properties.

While some claims suggest mango butter can help with scars and stretch marks, it is not a permanent cure. Its hydrating and skin-softening properties can improve the appearance of skin texture, and its antioxidant content can help reduce the associated redness or discoloration. However, it cannot eliminate them entirely.