Candelilla wax (INCI: Euphorbia Cerifera Cera) is the backbone of many stick formulations. It has a melting point of 68–73°C and forms remarkably hard oleogels with very small crystals. It provides high surface gloss and leads to shrinkage, which eases demolding. BUT what to do when it is not available?
Due to very wet weather conditions, the yield of crude Candelilla wax was poor in 2014. Additionally there is a rising, global demand, which made the supply situation even more difficult. Even though the situation is expected to normalize from 2016 on, many cosmetic producing companies have understood their dependence on the harvest of a material that is only gained in a limited area in the world. Therefore the need for alternatives with broader sourcing abilities is bigger than ever.
KahlWax has three Candelilla wax substitutes: Kahlwax 6700, 6702, and 7304
Kahlwax 6700 (INCI: Copernicia Cerifera Cera, Helianthus Annuus Seed Cera, Polyethylene, C30–50 Alcohols, Montan Acid Wax, Shorea Robusta Resin, Hydrogenated Styrene/ ethyl Styrene/Indene Copolymer) is a vegan blend of carefully selected, high-quality ingredients, such as carnauba wax, sunflower seed wax, and Shorea robusta resin. Every single component has unique and outstanding properties. It is a 1:1 replacement and ideal for giving lips the care and attention they need, while producing outstanding gloss and offering excellent oil-binding properties and remarkable hardness. Used in mascara, Kahlwax 6700 forms flexible layers on lashes and is therefore an excellent volumizer. It improves adhesiveness of color cosmetics and stabilizes and hardens stick preparations. Kahlwax 6700 has a slightly higher melting point than pure Candelilla wax, which improves the temperature stability of formulations even more.
Kahlwax 6702 (INCI: Helianthus Annuus Seed Wax, Shorea Robusta Resin, Rhus Verniciflua Peel Cera) is the all-natural version of Kahlwax 6700.
Another option is Kahlwax 7304 (INCI: Paraffin, Copernicia Cerifera Cera, Glycol Montanate, Shorea Robusta Resin) which is the simple and economic version of Kahlwax 6700.
About Kahl Wax
KahlWax is one of the leading specialists in natural waxes, such as beeswax, carnauba wax, candelilla wax, and many others. We have a long tradition of refining and manufacturing waxes, functional ingredients, powders, and emulsions. From our production site near Hamburg we ship our goods around the world. Our customers are found in the cosmetic, food, pharmaceutical, candle, and household industry, as well as several other specialty wax businesses. KahlWax’s own laboratories research and develop new products and provide extensive formulation assistance, technical support, and tailor-made solutions.