What is Carnauba Wax?
Carnauba wax is a solid wax and it is yellow in colour. It is extracted from the carnauba palm tree leaves and is a natural wax, used in a wide range of cosmetic products.
The carnauba tree protects itself during the dry seasons in Brazil. The carnauba tree avoids loss of moisture by secreting a coating of carnauba wax on the upper and lower leaf surface. The leaves are then dried to produce dried carnauba wax.
Carnauba wax is sometimes referred to as the 'queen of waxes' as it is one of the hardest natural waxes. It is also known as Brazil Wax, Ceara Wax and Palm Wax.
Origin and History
Carnauba was is native to Brazil and has been used by the indigenous people of Brazil for centuries. Traditionally, carnauba wax was used to make candles and as a coating for fishing nets. They also used it as a remedy for illnesses.
Today, carnauba wax has a wide variety of uses like musical instruments, shoes, food additive and car wax as a polish and protection.
It has also become very popular in the cosmetics industry to thicken, stabilize and emulsify a range of beauty products.
What is Carnauba Wax Used For?
Carnauba wax has emulsifying, thickening, softening, and emollient properties. It is commonly used in a cosmetic formulation, such as lip balms and lipstick.
Carnauba wax can be used to add shine and a gloss coating to a variety of products. Waxes also help the texture and structure of products with high melting points or a stiff consistency.
As carnauba wax is insoluble in water, it also has great water resistant qualities.
Is Carnauba Wax Vegan?
Yes, carnauba wax is vegan friendly. Carnauba wax is a natural vegetable wax and is derived from the carnauba palm tree.
Is Carnauba Wax Better Than Beeswax?
Carnauba wax is derived from the carnauba tree and beeswax is produced from worker bees. Carnauba wax is a hard and brittle wax as it has a very high melting point. Beeswax has a lower melting point and is a softer consistency.
Carnauba wax is often used in cosmetics as it is a natural and vegan material with a high melting point. Because of this, the wax can be used in many different types of cosmetics.
Beeswax is a natural wax that has a softer and creamier texture. It is a great wax for cosmetics and adds extra moisturising properties. However, beeswax is not vegan friendly.
Both waxes are great for cosmetic products and have a range of benefits. Beeswax is suitable for softer cosmetic products and adding moisture.
Carnauba wax is harder than other waxes and is more suited for hard cosmetic products and adding a glossy finish.
