Body butter is a rich and thick cream that is used for healing, softening, and moisturizing rough and dry skin on areas like elbows, knees, heels, feet, and hands. It creates a protective layer on the surface of the skin and is not designed to hydrate the skin since it contains no water. Body butter is made with natural butters (like shea or cocoa butter) and often contains essential oils or fragrance oils. It is best used after showering on damp skin or on top of a lotion. Body butters do not contain water and, therefore, do not require the use of preservatives but still have a relatively long shelf life. They will melt if exposed to high temperatures and should be stored in a cool place. Body butters are not edible and are made with ingredients that are not meant to be ingested. They are more effective at nourishing and rejuvenating dry skin, especially during the winter months. Some of the main ingredients in body butters include shea butter, coconut oil, and other vegetable-based oils and butters