Cera Alba (Beeswax): Properties and Cosmetic Applications

What Is Cera Alba?

Beeswax is a secretion produced by the abdominal glands of honeybees. Freshly secreted beeswax is white and colourless, but it develops its characteristic colour as bees collect and store pollen and honey.

For cosmetic purposes, yellow beeswax is referred to as Cera Flava, while white beeswax is known as Cera Alba. Beeswax has a relatively low melting point of approximately 61–65°C and is moderately hard, while becoming somewhat sticky, plastic and kneadable at body temperature.

Key Properties of Beeswax

Excellent Oil-Binding Properties
Beeswax is one of the most effective oil-binding waxes used in cosmetics. This makes it particularly useful for creating rich, creamy textures.

Texturising and Film-Forming
It contributes structure, adhesion and a pleasant film on the skin, making it especially valuable in lip and skin-care products.

Emulsion Stabilisation
Its oil-gelling properties can help stabilise water-in-oil emulsions and provide the desired consistency in skin and hair formulations.

Cosmetic Applications

Beeswax is commonly used in:

• Lipsticks and lip balms
• Water-in-oil emulsions
• Skin and hair care products
• Mascara
• Make-up products

In decorative cosmetics, beeswax can enhance texture and add volume, while in lip products it helps create creamy textures, good adhesion and a pleasant protective film.

Ingredient Information

INCI: Cera Alba
CAS: 8012-89-3
EINECS/EC: 232-383-7

References

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