Carnauba Wax (Copernicia Cerifera): Properties and Cosmetic Applications

What Is Carnauba Wax?

Carnauba Wax is produced by the Brazilian palm Copernicia cerifera, which deposits the wax on the cuticle of its fronds. The leaves are harvested, dried in the sun and threshed to obtain the wax.

Carnauba Wax has a narrow melting range with a melting point of approximately 84°C. Its high crystallinity and strong contraction make it a very hard and brittle wax.

Key Properties of Carnauba Wax

High Melting Point
Its high melting point makes Carnauba Wax useful for increasing the melting point and structural stability of oil-based formulations.

Hardness and Structure
The wax provides firmness and structure, making it particularly useful in solid and stick-type cosmetic products.

Emulsification and Oil-Binding Properties
Carnauba Wax has favourable emulsification properties and a strong capacity for binding ester oils and mineral oils.

Gloss and Lustre
It can provide a glossy, lustrous surface, which is particularly desirable in decorative cosmetics and lip products.

Cosmetic Applications

Carnauba Wax is commonly used in:

• Lipsticks
• Lip balms
• Mascaras
• Oil gels
• Decorative cosmetics

It is particularly valuable in lipsticks and lip balms because it raises the melting point of oil gels while providing the desired hardness and structure. Its ability to create glossy surfaces also makes it highly suitable for mascaras and other decorative products.

Ingredient Information

INCI: Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax
CAS: 8015-86-9
EINECS/EC: 232-399-4

References

Cosmetic Formulation Principles and Practice – Heather A.E. Benson, Michael S. Roberts, Vânia Rodrigues Leite-Silva, Kenneth A. Walters.