Candelilla Wax (Euphorbia Cerifera): Properties and Cosmetic Applications

What Is Candelilla Wax?

Candelilla Wax is obtained from the above-ground parts of wild Euphorbia cerifera. The plant is dried and boiled in water, after which the wax is separated by decanting. Crude candelilla wax is dark brown and is refined to produce a pale yellow wax.

Candelilla Wax is remarkably hard but has relatively low crystallinity. At higher temperatures, it also exhibits a certain degree of tackiness.

Key Properties of Candelilla Wax

Hardness and Structure
Candelilla Wax provides hardness and structure to cosmetic formulations and is particularly useful in solid products.

Oil-Binding Capacity
Its resin and sitosterol content, together with esters, gives candelilla wax an excellent capacity for binding ester oils.

Melting Point
Its melting point is approximately 72°C, placing it between beeswax and carnauba wax. This makes it useful for controlling the consistency and melting behaviour of cosmetic products.

Gloss and Contraction
Candelilla Wax provides a high surface gloss and has satisfactory contraction properties, which are particularly useful during lipstick manufacturing and demoulding.

Cosmetic Applications

Candelilla Wax is especially suitable for:

• Lipsticks
• Lip balms
• Decorative cosmetics
• Solid oil-based formulations

In lipsticks, it contributes hardness, oil binding and surface gloss while its contraction properties support easier demoulding during manufacturing.

Ingredient Information

INCI: Euphorbia Cerifera Wax
CAS: 8006-44-8
EINECS/EC: 232-347-0

References

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