Waxs

WHAT ARE WAXES?
Waxes are a chemically diverse group of different long-chain molecules. A typical example of a wax component is an ester, made from a fatty acid and a long chain alcohol (also called fatty alcohols, eg cetyl alcohol). Different natural waxes have different compositions (esters, fatty acids, alcohols, hydrocarbons).
fatty acid section ester part alcohol section
Examples of ‘true’ natural waxes are beeswax, carnauba wax, candelilla wax, berry wax, jojoba wax and floral waxes.
One of the most commonly used waxes is beeswax. It is 100% natural, but since it is produced by bees, it is not suitable for vegan skincare

Waxes in cosmetics are used in many formulations. Their wide use is related to the benefits they provide to the final product. Waxes increase the viscosity of the product, improve its consistency and stability. These properties are due to their intrinsic characteristic: their high melting point.

MORE FUNCTIONS AND BENEFITS OF WAXES
Waxes are often an essential part of a cosmetic formulation. They help harden liquid oils, which plays a crucial role in making lip balms, ointments, solid lotion bars and other products. When creating a new formulation or when adjusting an existing one, you will need to understand how much wax to add in order to achieve a desired thickness or firmness. Waxes also provide an occlusive function. They increase the moisture levels in the skin by creating a protective layer (an occlusive layer) that prevents moisture from escaping from the tissue (transepidermal water loss, TEWL). By reducing water loss they help to keep the skin supple, soft and moisturized.

Waxes, in fact, have a melting point that in most cases is above 50°C. This allows the final product, a clear example are the lip balms, not to liquefy on particularly hot and sultry days. The right mix of waxes will give consistency to our final product guaranteeing its stability.

TYPICAL USE AND USAGE RATES
Waxes can be added to many different types of skincare products, including:
Anhydrous body butters: 0-30%
Balms: up to 30%
Lip balms: up to 30%
Lotion bars: up to 30%
Creams and lotions: 3%