Candellia Wax Prills

Latin Binomial: Euphorbia cerifera
Plant Part: Leaves
Extraction: Solvent Extracted
Growing Practice: Ethical
Country of Origin: USA

Candelilla wax is derived from the leaves of a small shrub (Euphorbia cerifera) native to Mexico

It can be used in cosmetics to harden other waxes and raise their boiling point, or as a substitute for carnauba wax and beeswax. It is a component of lip balms and lotion bars.

Its melting point is 67-79 °C.

Appearance: yellowish brown, hard, brittle and opaque to translucent.
BioChemicals: Mainly hydrocarbons (about 50 %, chains with 29-33 carbons), esters of higher molecular weight (20-29 %), free acids (7-9%), and resins (12-14%, mainly triterpenoid esters)
Melting Point °C: 67-79°C.
CAS No: 8006-44-8

Candelilla (Euphorbia antisyphilitica syn. cerifera of the family Euphorbiaceae) is a shrubby spurge native to southwest Texas and Mexico, having densely clustered, erect, essentially leafless stems that yield the multipurpose Candelilla wax.

The wax is obtained by boiling the leaves and twigs in dilute sulfuric acid and skimming off the wax. It is yellowish brown, brittle, and opaque to translucent.

Candelilla wax can be used in cosmetics to harden other waxes and raise their boiling point, or as a substitute for carnauba wax and beeswax. It is a component of lip balms and lotion bars.

The FDA considers Candelilla Wax Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) as a direct addition to food.

A Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has evaluated the scientific data and concluded that Candelilla Wax is safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products, and that decision was reaffirmed in 2003.

The information provided on these pages is not a substitute for necessary medical care, nor intended as medical advice. Always keep carriers and bases tightly closed and in a cool, dark place, out of reach of children. If redness or irritation occurs when applied to the skin, stop using immediately and contact your health provider if necessary.