Frequently Asked Questions

Are your products vegan?

Yes, all of our products are vegan unless indicated otherwise.

Do you test on animals?

Never.

Is your Shea butter refined or unrefined?

We use unrefined Shea butter.

What is the difference between refined and unrefined Shea butter? Which one is better?

Refined Shea butter is extracted from the nut of the Shea tree using high heat and sometimes, hexane. Using high heat causes the Shea butter to lose some of its healing properties and vitamins such as A and E. It is white in color and has no smell. 

Unrefined (or raw) Shea butter is extracted from the nut of the Shea tree using traditional West African methods or using mechanical extraction. It is rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and E, as well as fatty acids and other skin-loving ingredients. It can range in color from ivory to yellow, and has an earthy smell.

We here at Gangsta Grease like it raw (cue Shimmy Shimmy Ya). There are some pros to using refined Shea butter such as being easier to spread and having no smell, but for us, nothing beats the nutritional punch raw Shea butter packs. 

Do your products contain parabens?

No. Our products are formulated without parabens. We prioritize ingredients that nourish the skin while maintaining a thoughtful approach to formulation.

Do your products contain phthalates?

No. None of our products contain phthalates.

Do you use fragrance oils?

Yes, our butters in The TRAP collection and in Private Stock are scented with high-quality fragrance oils formulated in compliance with IFRA safety standards. They contain no phthalates, parabens, and are not intentionally formulated with Prop 65-listed ingredients. 

As with all fragranced products, those with fragrance sensitivities should patch test prior to use.

If you are looking for all natural butters scented with pure essential oils, check out our butters in THE REMEDY Collection.

Two lanes. Same Gangsta Grease.

What is the difference between The REMEDY series and The TRAP?

The REMEDY collection butters are made from our base of organic, raw unrefined shea butter and organic cold pressed virgin coconut oil. They are scented using therapeutic grade essential oils that we blend ourselves. This line is the best choice if you are looking for an all natural aromatherapeutic experience with scents found in nature and extra skin benefits.

The TRAP collection butters are made from our base of organic, raw unrefined shea butter and organic cold pressed virgin coconut oil. They are scented using high quality fragrance oils that are vegan and free from: parabens, phthalates, SLS/SLES, and cruelty.  This line is the best choice if you're looking for something bold with a luxurious scent profile similar to designer perfume or cologne.

Do I need to patch test Gangsta Grease?

Yes, Gangsta Grease is a cosmetic product for external use only. Every body is different — patch test before full use. Discontinue use if irritation occurs. If irritation persists, consult a healthcare professional.

Will it cause acne?

Pure shea butter is generally considered low on the comedogenic scale, meaning it is unlikely to clog pores for most people. However, individual skin types can vary.

Our body butters contain additional oils and essential oils or fragrance oils, which are formulated primarily for body use rather than facial care. If you have acne-prone or sensitive facial skin, we recommend patch testing first or using products specifically formulated for the face, such as Nekkid Shea Butter.

If you prefer a simple option, our Nekkid Shea Butter contains 100% raw shea butter with no added oils or fragrance.

Skin is complex—breakouts can be influenced by many factors including hormones, diet, stress, and other skincare products.

What if my body butter melts during shipping?

Our body butters may soften or melt in warm temperatures due to their natural ingredients. If your product arrives softened or melted, simply allow it to cool at room temperature or place it in the refrigerator until it solidifies. Texture may change slightly, but performance remains the same.

How do you choose the ingredients in Gangsta Grease?

We focus on ingredients that are effective, well-suited for skin care, and thoughtfully sourced. Our formulations prioritize rich plant butters, nourishing oils, and cosmetic-grade fragrance or essential oils used at safe concentrations.

Every ingredient we use is selected with both skin performance and overall formulation balance in mind.

Good ingredients. Real butter. No shortcuts.

Are your products medical or pharmacist-prescribed?

Our products are designed for cosmetic and personal care use only. While our founder is a licensed pharmacist, the body butters sold on this website are not medical products and are not dispensed in a healthcare or pharmacist-patient setting. Any information shared about ingredients or aromatherapy is for educational purposes and is not intended as medical or pharmaceutical advice.

Do you offer other products besides moisturizers?

Currently, we sell moisturizers for the body and the face. We plan on expanding to other personal care products soon, such as: Soaps, scrubs, serums, deodorants, and wipes. We have been asked about stuff for the home such as: candles and pillow/room sprays. So those are in the works as well. Make sure to stay up with us and our expanding product line by following us on social media! 

Instagram: @GangstaGrease

TikTok: @GangstaGrease

Twitter: @GangstaGrease

Disclaimer

The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or pharmaceutical advice. Our products are cosmetic in nature and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition.

Although the founder is a licensed pharmacist, the products sold on this website are not dispensed in a professional healthcare capacity, and no pharmacist-patient relationship is established through use of this site or purchase of products. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding medical concerns or skin conditions.