We have already written about the extraordinary benefits of ceremonial cocoa for the body and soul, so it is time for cocoa for the skin. For some time now, we have seen chocolate conquering the spa market with great momentum. No wonder, it is not only tasty, but brings significant benefits to the skin. Chocolate spa products are based on real, natural cocoa and are beginning to play an increasingly important role in cosmetics. Today, top spa salons offer a wide range of chocolate products and treatments. This is because natural cocoa is a real vitamin and mineral bomb for the skin. It provides an unparalleled cocktail of antioxidants and nutrients. 

The science of cocoa

The idea to use cocoa for skin care emerged in the early 21st century, when dermatologists and cosmetologists discovered that cocoa's extraordinary nourishing properties could also be used for skin and hair care. Cosmetic products based on cocoa and cocoa butter began to appear on the market. Cocoa is used in cosmetics mainly because of its high content of antioxidants, which delay the ageing process and accelerate the fat burning process. This is the reason why these types of creams, lotions and other spa products are steadily gaining in popularity and taking the cosmetic market by storm. After cocoa and chocolate cosmetics, the skin is not only perfectly nourished and smoothed, but imperfections and discolourations disappear. That's not all, cocoa stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, which affect the firmness and tone of the skin, strengthen its structure and improve its overall condition. Natural, unprocessed chocolate contains large amounts of zinc, which tones the skin and has an anti-inflammatory effect. Real cocoa can do even more. It protects the skin from free radicals and makes it more resistant to sun damage. [1] Cocoa is known as one of the best natural sources of magnesium. This ingredient facilitates the absorption of other nutrients and stimulates circulation. 

Real cocoa

The cacao tree is known by its Latin name Theobroma Cacao, which means food of the gods. The Aztecs believed that the tree existed to be the food of the Gods and deities existing in nature. From the very beginning, cacao was used as medicine and served during special rituals. Shamans handled the cacao seed with great reverence, as they treated the tree as a sacred plant. Ceremonial cocoa is still prepared in the traditional way as it was thousands of years ago. The process involves pre-fermentation and gentle roasting so as not to destroy the precious substances. The real cocoa from which chocolate is made is naturally bitter, has a delicate aroma and a very intense, dry taste. 

How cocoa and cocoa butter affect human skin

Modern science has discovered that cocoa is a product that few substances can match. It contains anti-inflammatory and disinfecting substances and can protect nerve endings and coronary vessels, promoting heart function and blood circulation [2]. Of course, this refers to high-quality, unprocessed, natural cocoa so-called ceremonial cocoa obtained from cocoa paste. Such cocoa retains all the almost original properties that the cocoa bean conceals. This makes it a luxury product and sought after by cosmetic and nutritional experts. 

For cosmetic purposes, we usually combine cocoa with milk, natural cream, natural cottage cheese, yoghurt or kefir. We obtain chocolate masks, creams and lotions. How about chocolate baths? Sounds good, doesn't it? Chocolate releases happy hormones and has the power to reduce and lower stress hormones. So let's love cocoa and allow ourselves to be seduced by it. Let's look at the benefits of chocolate therapy.

Skin cell rejuvenation

One of the best news about cocoa in cosmetics is its powerful anti-ageing effect. It contains a high dose of amino acids and antioxidants. This makes it excellent at dealing with free radicals and delaying skin ageing. Energises tired and dull skin.  It prevents the breakdown of collagen in the skin [3] and strengthens the skin's scaffolding. The effects can be seen basically immediately after application.

Scar brightening

Cocoa contains many minerals and omega 6 fatty acids, so it can lighten scars, as these substances renew the skin at a cellular level. Cocoa improves blood micro-circulation, stimulates collagen production and accelerates healing, as it contains xanthine and theobromine. Substances that reduce and prevent phlebitis. They also increase blood flow, i.e. indirectly influence the growth and formation of new cells, making the skin visibly younger and regenerating faster. [4]

Remineralisation of dehydrated and dry skin

Cocoa is excellent at detoxifying, removing toxins and harmful metabolic products from the cells. [5] Mainly due to its iron, copper, calcium, potassium and magnesium content. Magnesium, is responsible for protein synthesis and energising cells. Cocoa can perfectly nourish and moisturise even very dry and rough skin and will do so in a very short time. All it takes is a few minutes of contact with the skin. The key, of course, is a good quality product. 

Cocoa versus cellulite

Cocoa fights cellulite, mainly due to two components, flavonols and endorphins [6]. The flavonols stimulate microcirculation. The second ingredient, endorphins, are so-called 'happy hormones' that affect fat metabolism in cells. 

Cocoa sun protection

Cocoa flavonoids make the skin more resistant to sunburn, as it reacts almost twice as slowly. It is also more resilient, superbly nourished and moisturised. It thus becomes more resistant to external factors and can defend itself against overheating, sunburn and harmful UV rays.

Cocoa for stress

Imagine a rainy, grey day and you are immersed in the scent of sensual chocolate made with ceremonial cocoa. You smell notes of exotic Peru or Guatemala. The scent of sunshine and warm chocolate envelops your skin. It sounds good and it is. Chocolate has always been a luxury food; now it is also a luxury for the skin. It stimulates the production of serotonin. It therefore acts as a natural antidepressant. It has an anti-inflammatory, soothing and slightly relieving effect, so it calms and smooths your skin [7], [8] Complete relaxation and bliss - this is what ceremonial cocoa-based chocolate has to offer us. 

Smooth, even smoother

Cocoa is an ingredient in many hair removal creams. This is because it quickly eliminates irritation, nourishes and conditions the skin already during the treatment. The scent of cocoa makes the treatment almost a pleasure. Some companies have specialised in a range of this type of product, so by finishing the treatment you can moisturise your skin with chocolate lotion, the irritation quickly disappears. 

Time for a home spa, or a few ideas for cosmetics with cocoa

You can make some cosmetics yourself at home if you have good quality natural cocoa. It requires a bit of effort and time, but it's worth it. Check it out and see for yourself.

Pore-cleansing mask 

Mix very thoroughly, preferably with a blender or mixer, four heaping tablespoons of ground coffee and four tablespoons of raw natural cacao powder. Then add eight tablespoons of almond or coconut milk, two full tablespoons of honey and two tablespoons of natural fresh lemon juice. Blend until smooth and compact. Apply the mask to the face and neck for about 25 minutes. Wash off with a gentle make-up remover or lukewarm water. Do this carefully as the mask has strong peeling properties. You can therefore use it at the end as a scrub by washing off gently and massaging in circular motions for a few minutes. Then apply your favourite moisturiser. Preferably non-greasy, without added oils. We recommend a homemade one based on cocoa or cocoa butter, of course.

Cocoa lotion for dark hair

Mix three tablespoons of natural, unsweetened cottage cheese with a teaspoon of cocoa powder until you have a smooth, homogeneous consistency. Apply the lotion to the hair and leave it on for 10 minutes.  Rinse out of the hair and wash it again with your favourite mild shampoo. This mask will make your hair regain its natural shine.  

Anti-wrinkle cocoa

Mix a tablespoon of cocoa with a teaspoon of sweet but unsweetened good quality cream, a little natural cottage cheese, four teaspoons of honey and a teaspoon of fine oatmeal or oatmeal flour. It is best to use a blender to grind everything into a smooth paste. Apply to cleansed face. Allow to dry, which is about 10 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water. Gently pat your face dry with a towel. Do not rub, so as not to wipe away the lipid filter that has remained on the skin and will continue to be absorbed for some time.

Cocoa anti-cellulite lotion

You will need coffee grounds from a pre-brewed coffee. Coffee contains natural enzymes that detoxify the skin, activate cells to burn fat and release retained water from the skin. You will need a whole cup of grounds that are produced after drinking brewed coffee (or grounds from the coffee machine). You will need 4 teaspoons of cocoa powder. Mix these ingredients with two teaspoons of salt and a little warm water until you have the consistency of a smooth paste. Massage it in circular motions into the areas where you can see signs of cellulite or are most prone to it, namely the abdomen, buttocks and thighs. Wrap the smeared areas in cling film to reinforce the effect. The substances will penetrate the skin faster and deeper due to the temperature. Leave the compress on the skin for 20 to 45 minutes. Rinse off with lukewarm water. Repeat the treatment at least once a week. The compress also helps with varicose veins. It speeds up blood circulation and stimulates water movement in the tissues.

Cocoa enzyme scrub

Blend the cocoa powder with natural yoghurt, preferably Greek yoghurt, suitably thick. You can dissolve the cocoa in a little milk or water to release all its nutritional properties faster. Remember that natural cocoa is difficult to dissolve, so it's best to use a blender for this. Apply to damp skin on your face and neck. Rub the skin in a clockwise and then counter-clockwise circular motion. Rinse off the scrub with cold water. This will remove dead cells and increase the radiance of your complexion.

Mask for oily skin

With this type of skin, there is a natural tendency to pimples. In this case, we mix dark cocoa, for example from Ghana, with Multani Mitti clay, which effectively absorbs sebum and tones. Lemon juice can be added to enhance the toning effect. After such a mask, the skin is shiny, smooth and silky.

Mask for dry skin 

In this case, you add milk, which is rich in lactic acids, to the cocoa. You can also add a teaspoon of olive oil or honey. Both ingredients are great for moisturising the skin.

Time for cocoa butter 

Cocoa butter is a raw material extracted from the cocoa bean and is one of the best, if not the best, cosmetic butter. And this is thanks to several of its remarkable qualities. It is easily absorbed by the skin and is very deeply moisturising and nourishing. It is especially recommended for dry or combination skin. It acts brilliantly as an emollient, leaving a protective lipid film on the skin, softening and improving skin elasticity. It nourishes and moisturises by penetrating into the deeper cell layers. When used regularly, it thickens and firms the skin's texture. It is a luxurious addition to lipsticks, lip balms, soaps and hair conditioners. It has a pleasant velvety texture. It provides excellent protection in winter and protects against frosty winds during autumn walks.  

Possessing the same properties as cocoa, with an additional intensified moisturising and lubricating effect, it is an excellent base for regenerating and conditioning creams for tired smoker's skin and for ageing complexions with an anti-wrinkle effect. The effects are usually visible after the first application. It contains many unsaturated and saturated fatty acids, including oleic and stearic acids, which activate the metabolism and cell renewal of skin tissue. It is very effective on scars and stretch marks, smoothing, softening and making scar tissue more elastic. Protects the skin from harmful climatic effects. It contains phytochemicals that help strengthen the skin's structure and reflect the sun's harmful rays. No wonder cosmetologists love this product. Of course, the better the quality of the butter, the more effective it is for the condition of the skin. 

Unrefined cocoa butter for homemade cosmetics

There is a significant difference between refined and unrefined cocoa butter. 

Refined cocoa butter, or partially processed cocoa butter, is produced from the raw cocoa bean and processed to remove some of the compounds naturally found in cocoa beans. The refining process includes purification, decolourisation and deodorisation. As a result, refined cocoa butter is usually lighter in colour and has a less intense cocoa flavour and aroma. The result is a pale, slightly yellowish butter. Such butter is successfully used as an ingredient in commercially available luxury skin care products. The aroma of natural chocolate is very delicate here. However, through the processes of conditioning, preservation and processing, some of the valuable components of the butter are lost. 

Unrefined butter is also produced from raw cocoa beans, but is not further processed. The result is, among other things, a slightly darker yellow colour. The processing here is minimal, so it usually retains the strong cocoa aroma and flavour. It may also contain more nutrients. Unrefined cocoa butter is often darker in colour and has a stronger taste and smell. Such butter does not actually lose any of its properties.  It penetrates deeper into the subsequent layers of the skin. We can use it to prepare unparalleled home cosmetics or spa treatments. 

The shelf life of the product, depending on its storage, is estimated to be quite long, although shorter than that of the refined product. Properly stored in a dry and cool place, it does not lose its valuable properties for as long as two years. So the right place for the butter is crucial. If stored for too long, butter may lose some of its valuable ingredients, as some of them may naturally decompose or oxidise. Some of them, e.g. the phytochemicals, are no longer as active as in very fresh cocoa butter.

Tips and trivia about chocolate butter

• Good quality butter can be stored for up to two years if it has the right conditions, i.e. a dry and suitably cool place. Butter does not like dampness or heat. 
• It's worth keeping cocoa butter chips on hand; they are easy to spread on sun-dried or frostbitten skin and will melt on contact. You can grate them yourself and store them in a jar; these chips can make a great addition to your favourite cream or mask, they will melt when you rub the cream into the skin.
• Butter starts to melt at around 37 degrees Celsius (body temperature dissolves butter, it will melt faster by rubbing it on the skin for a few minutes). It should therefore be stored in a cool place, away from the cooking area or places that are seasonally heated. 
• When heated, the butter takes the form of an oil, which can be used for cosmetic purposes as long as the heating temperature is not too high so as not to destroy the valuable ingredients. A steam bath, for example, would be advisable in this case. The vessel with the butter can be placed in another larger vessel with warm or hot water. The butter can be melted by patiently rubbing the cube against the skin. Alternatively, the melted butter can be mixed with a little coconut butter or Vaseline. It will be soft enough for direct use on chapped lips or dry elbows, for example.
• Natural butter does not always blend with other ingredients with a strong fragrance, so if you want to compose your own cream or lotion carefully choose your ingredients, preferably unrefined ones too. The scent of butter is very delicate, easily drowned out by other fragrances. It's a shame, because nothing smells like chocolate, right?
• Unrefined butter is richer in nutrients, so it is excellent for softening and smoothing difficult skin areas such as elbows, knees, heels and chapped hands. 
• The butter can be mixed with other natural vege oils e.g. shea butter, coconut butter to create amazing lotions for the body, hands, feet and face. 
• It can be used to obtain high-quality ointments for various skin problems. The skin maintains this protective barrier for a long time. So it is an excellent idea for a winter filter. Instead of a classic protective lipstick, we can successfully use a piece of cocoa butter. It quickly regenerates dry and damaged areas on the skin caused by the sun, wind or frost. 

How does cacao butter compare with well-known butters?

Shea butter is recommended for various types of skin eczema, helping to rebuild damaged skin as it is extremely rich in plant sterols. The same is true for cocoa butter. A matter of preference and liking which butter you are more likely to reach for. Cocoa butter is recommended for dry, damaged skin with poor firmness, thin and delicate skin. It is not recommended for acne-prone or sebum-prone skin. It does, however, have gentle antiseptic properties and contains a fair amount of zinc, which regulates excessive sebum production, so it is a matter of the individual how the skin reacts to it. Sometimes, even with difficult skin, the results are surprising. Cocoa butter makes the skin glow and look healthier, that's for sure. 

Remember to buy only the highest quality products for cosmetic purposes. 

As you can see, it is worth reaching for chocolate for health and beauty. Every season of the year likes cocoa. It is enjoyed on rainy gloomy autumn afternoons, in cold and snowy winters and on sunny days when we expose our skin to the harsh rays of the sun. Cocoa will take care of the health and beauty of your skin by presenting an unparalleled feast of benefits and possibilities. Your skin will love cocoa, just like you.