PLANT-based skin butters are all the rage right now — from oat to pumpkin to lavender, people have been choosing these over lotions for their skincare. Aesthetician Nicole Meredith says you can never go wrong with choosing plant-based over chemicals; even better, when you're using butters as the carriers instead of lotions.

"The benefits of using plant-based skin butters include moisturising, softening, protecting against environmental stressors, promoting skin healing, and improving the overall texture and appearance of the skin," she said.

She explained that plant-based skin butters are natural products derived from various plant sources. They are rich in nutrients, antioxidants, and fatty acids that can provide numerous benefits for the skin.

Here are some common plant-based skin butters and their benefits:

Shea butter

Shea butter is rich in vitamins A and E as well as fatty acids. It moisturises deeply, soothes dry skin, and helps improve skin elasticity. It's also known for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties.

Cocoa butter

Cocoa butter is high in antioxidants and fatty acids. It helps retain moisture, reduces the appearance of scars and stretch marks, and promotes skin elasticity.

Mango butter

Mango butter is rich in vitamins A and C, along with fatty acids. It's a natural emollient that helps moisturise and soften the skin. It can also soothe irritation and dryness.

Coconut butter

Coconut butter, derived from coconut meat, is nourishing and moisturising. It contains healthy fats and can help improve skin texture and hydration.

Avocado butter

Avocado butter is packed with vitamins A, D, and E as well as essential fatty acids. It's deeply moisturising and can benefit dry or mature skin.

Lavender butter

Lavender butter's natural lavender fragrance has a calming effect on the mind and body. When applied to the skin, it can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. Its butter base provides deep hydration to the skin, helping to lock in moisture and prevent dryness

Oat butter

Oat butter is rich in lipids and emollients, which help lock in moisture and keep the skin hydrated. It's particularly beneficial for dry and sensitive skin types.

Pumpkin butter

Pumpkin contains natural enzymes, such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) that gently exfoliate the skin by breaking down dead skin cells. This can help reveal smoother and brighter skin. The AHAs in pumpkin can help fade the appearance of dark spots and promote a more even skin tone, making it beneficial for hyperpigmentation.

"When using these butters, it's important to choose high-quality, unrefined versions to retain their natural benefits," Meredith said. "These will be available at your health food or beauty supply store."