Emulsifying Wax

Emulsifying Wax 

Emulsifying Wax is a functional cosmetic raw material used primarily for emulsion formation, structural integrity, and formulation stability. It belongs to the class of complete emulsifier systems and is manufactured as a balanced blend of fatty alcohols and nonionic emulsifying agents designed to reliably combine oil and water phases. The method of production and component selection are engineered to deliver consistent emulsification performance, predictable rheology, and broad formulation compatibility across a wide range of cosmetic systems.

From a formulation standpoint, Emulsifying Wax contributes directly to the formation and stabilization of oil-in-water emulsions by supporting interfacial alignment between hydrophilic and lipophilic phases. It promotes lamellar structure development, increases viscosity, and enhances long-term physical stability. Depending on usage level and formulation design, Emulsifying Wax may function as the primary emulsifier or as part of a multi-emulsifier system that reinforces structure, improves tolerance to actives, and reduces the risk of phase separation. Performance is influenced by oil phase load, processing temperature, shear, and the presence of electrolytes or functional additives.

In finished products, Emulsifying Wax influences sensory performance by contributing creaminess, body, and controlled spread. Lower usage levels support lighter, more fluid emulsions, while higher levels result in thicker, more structured creams with enhanced cushion and payoff. Sensory outcome is formulation-dependent and may be adjusted through oil selection, fatty alcohol content, and total emulsifier loading.

From a clean standards and safety perspective, Emulsifying Wax has a long history of cosmetic use and is broadly accepted within global regulatory frameworks when manufactured to cosmetic-grade specifications. Clean positioning depends on grade selection, as many traditional emulsifying waxes contain ethoxylated components. When selected appropriately and transparently disclosed, Emulsifying Wax remains suitable for both rinse-off and leave-on applications and is generally well tolerated at standard cosmetic usage levels.

Ingredient Identification

INCI Name: Cetearyl Alcohol (and) Polysorbate 60 (common grade; composition may vary by supplier)
CAS Numbers: 67762-27-0, 9005-67-8

Physical & Technical Properties

Appearance: White to off-white solid flakes or pellets
Odor: Mild, characteristic
Melting Point: Approximately 50–55 °C, depending on grade
Solubility: Dispersible in water; soluble in oil phase when heated
Functional Role: Primary emulsifier, viscosity builder, emulsion stabilizer

Typical Usage Levels (Skincare & Haircare)

Lotions: 3–5%
Creams: 4–8%
Conditioners and Masks: 2–6%
Cleansers and Hybrid Emulsions: 1–4%

Actual usage levels may vary depending on oil phase percentage, desired viscosity, and overall emulsifier system design.

DIY Education and Formulation Guidance

For DIY formulators and small-batch production, Emulsifying Wax is widely used due to its ease of formulation and reliability. Stable emulsions are achieved by heating both the oil and water phases to similar temperatures prior to combining, followed by sufficient mixing to ensure uniform emulsification.

For formulators requiring increased stability, higher oil loads, or improved tolerance to complex active systems, advanced emulsifying wax alternatives such as CEB-N may be selected. These systems are designed to provide stronger emulsion stability and improved resistance to separation while offering additional formulation flexibility, including the ability to be incorporated into either the oil phase or the water phase depending on formulation design.

Formulation Compatibility & Common Combinations

Emulsifying Wax is commonly formulated with fatty alcohols such as cetyl alcohol or stearyl alcohol to enhance structure and viscosity. It is compatible with a wide range of vegetable oils, esters, butters, and silicone alternatives. In emulsifying wax systems where long-term stability, broader ingredient tolerance, or processing flexibility is required, substituting standard emulsifying wax with systems such as CEB-N can significantly improve robustness and consistency.

Shelf Life, Storage, and Packaging

Shelf Life: Typically 24–36 months under recommended storage conditions
Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry environment away from heat and moisture
Packaging Recommendations: Airtight containers such as HDPE jars, lined bags, or sealed pails
Handling Notes: Protect from prolonged exposure to humidity to prevent clumping or surface degradation

Regulatory & Safety Notes

Regulatory Status: Approved for cosmetic use globally, including the United States and European Union, with no specific concentration limits beyond Good Manufacturing Practices
California Proposition 65: Not listed
EWG Context: Varies by component; generally acceptable at compliant cosmetic usage levels
Irritation and Sensitization: Not classified as irritating or sensitizing when used as directed
Clean Beauty Compatibility: Grade-dependent; traditional emulsifying waxes may contain ethoxylated components, while advanced emulsifying wax systems such as CEB-N provide enhanced stability within modern clean-leaning formulation strategies