What is candelilla wax?
Candelilla wax is a wax that is derived from the leaves of the small candelilla shrub, native to Southwestern United States and Mexico.
The plant is cut and left to dry and then boiled. The crude wax rises to the surface of the water and is then skimmed. For the next step, the wax goes through a refining process as to create the final product.
Candelilla wax is 100% pure, has a natural wax like aroma and is yellow in colour, very similar in appearance with beeswax.
Origin & History
The production of this wax started in the early 20th century in northern Mexico. It was first used in candle making but its use grew during the wars in the 20th century and it was used to waterproof tents & equipment, in polish, chewing gum and cosmetics.
It is known to be an effective binding agent to fuse ingredients together, while also thickening and hardening a recipe. This is great for cosmetic recipes for balms or thick creams.
Skin benefits of Candelilla Wax
Candelilla wax is great to use in cosmetic products as it creates a barrier for your skin, protecting it and keeping in moisture.
It is also great to use on oily skin types as it is non-comedogenic, meaning it will not clog pores when used on the skin.
We’ve heard claims that it can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. However, there are no scientific studies to back these claims as far as we know. If you’ve seen any, by all means send them in!
Hair benefits of Candelilla Wax
Candelilla wax helps to create a barrier to prevent moisture loss in the scalp and hair. This means that it can improve the ability of your recipe to reduce frizz, add shine and smoothness.
What can candelilla wax be used for?
Candelilla wax is a vegetable wax which is often used in the cosmetic industry as an alternative wax for beeswax and carnauba wax. It has a low melting point, it can be used as a thickener and to bind ingredients together.
It can be used for candle making, soap making and also in the preparation of various products such as: lip sticks, lip balms, mascaras, lotions bars and creams.
It's also known to function as a barrier agent which avoids the loss of moisture, making it an ideal ingredient in creating hair care products, such as conditioners and treatments.
This wax can help to lock in the moisture in your skin and hair. This means that when you add it to your recipe, it will extend the moisturising feel of the finished product.
Technical documents
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FAQs
Is candelilla wax good for skin?
Candelilla wax is great for the skin as it will hydrate and nourish it. It is used in cosmetic products as it does not clog any pores in the skin.
Is candelilla wax better than beeswax?
Candelilla wax and beeswax have many similar beneficial properties. The main difference between the two is candelilla wax is a vegan product and beeswax is an animal product.
Candelilla wax is also harder than beeswax and typically melts faster under high temperatures.
Candelilla wax benefits?
Candelilla wax helps prevent your skin and hair becoming dry by locking in moisture. It is also a great alternative for beeswax as it is vegan.
Can I substitute candelilla wax for the beeswax in my recipe?
Candelilla wax can be used to substitute beeswax in a recipe. However, it does create a slightly different effect in the finished product.
Candelilla wax is much harder than beeswax, so the final product might be more solid. Whereas, beeswax is creamier and will create a smoother texture.
When using candelilla wax as an alternative in your recipe, make sure to adjust the amount downwards as you will not need as much candelilla wax as beeswax.
Try substituting 80% of the suggested beeswax amount with candelilla wax and see if you're happy with the results.
Is candelilla wax an emulsifier?
No, it is not an emulsifier. You'll find our emulsifying waxes here
