Beeswax ●
TL;DR. This ingredient is a structuring wax, thickener, and film-former used to give balms, sticks, creams, and ointments firmness, gloss, and water-resistant occlusion.
What does Beeswax do in a cosmetic formula?
This ingredient is a structuring wax, thickener, and film-former used to give balms, sticks, creams, and ointments firmness, gloss, and water-resistant occlusion.
Is Beeswax clean?
From a clean-beauty perspective, it is generally well-tolerated and not a common restricted-list issue. Trace pollen or hive-derived resin residues can matter for highly sensitized users, so purification quality is relevant.
Is Beeswax sustainable?
This material is renewable and biodegradable, usually collected as a by-product of honey production. Its sustainability profile depends on hive management, residue controls, and responsible pollinator stewardship.
Is Beeswax COSMOS-approved?
It is permitted under COSMOS natural and organic standards when sourced according to animal-welfare and residue requirements, with organic status dependent on certified supply. It fits Green Chemistry reasonably well because it is renewable, minimally processed, and biodegradable, though it is animal-derived.
How does Beeswax work chemically?
The molecule profile is a natural mixture dominated by long-chain fatty acid esters, free fatty acids, fatty alcohols, and hydrocarbons, giving it a melting range around 62 to 65°C. Typical use is about 1 to 20% in anhydrous balms and sticks, and lower levels in emulsions, where it adds body and improves oil-phase structure.
Last updated 2026-05-13