Candelilla wax (euphorbia wax) is a plant-derived substance that is widely used in the manufacture of cosmetics, medical and household products, as well as food products. It has a lot of useful properties and is not picky about storage conditions. In the article, we will consider what this substance contains and what properties it has.
Description
Candelilla wax is extracted from the leaves of a shrub plant common in Mexico, euphorbia antisyphilitica, and also pedilanthus pavonis. They are also found in some states of North America. Shrubs are often referred to as candelillas because of their resemblance to small church candela candles.
The ground part of the bush is covered with vegetable wax, thus protecting its root system from drying out in the hot desert.
Analogue is carnauba wax, which is also used in the production of cosmetics and food. But such a substance is extracted from the lower leaves of the palm tree Copernicia cerifera.
Composition
As with most substances of plant origin, Candelilla wax contains:
- esters from 33 to 35%;
- hydrocarbons in the amount of 50-58%;
- acids (cyclic and aliphatic) - 9-10%;
- lactones no more than 6%;
- resins, mostly triterpenoid esters - 12-14%.
Besides this, but in minimal proportions: steroids, minerals, sterols, neutral resins. The composition has a significant molecular weight.
Receive
Shrub produces the largest amount of wax at the age of 2-5 years. Its mining continues for 12 months. However, during precipitation, with an increase in air humidity, productivity decreases. It is worth noting that the wax obtained from plants growing in arid and dry climates is of the highest quality.
How the substance is mined:
- Shrub branches richly covered with wax, cut, dried in direct sunlight for about two weeks.
- Then they are crushed and sent to be heated in a water bath.
- Sulfuric acid is added to the crushed branches, it promotes the release of substances from the plant, and also destabilizes the water emulsion formed when heated.
- The wax separated in the process is collected and dried in the sun for some time.
- After that, the product is refined, in other words, again brought to a liquid state, filtered and, if necessary, clarified.
- Cleaned or bleached waxundergoes processing, as a result of which it acquires a granular, lumpy, powder, tablet or sheet form.
- Next, candelilla wax is added to cosmetics, medical products, etc.
As a result of refining, the plant matter becomes hard and brittle, unlike the bee counterpart, and not as dense as the carnauba counterpart. After cooling, candelilla wax does not reach its maximum strength even after a few days.
The world's annual production of this type of wax is approximately 900 tons, which proves its demand in a variety of industries, from medical and cosmetic to food.
Useful properties
Due to its wide spectrum of action and its properties, candelilla wax has found its application in many products for various purposes.
Among its useful properties are:
- water holding capacity;
- light bactericidal action;
- strengthens hair follicles;
- softens hair structure;
- gives shine;
- prevents skin dehydration;
- reduces inflammation;
- differs in vasoconstrictive action.
The agent in question has a solid structure and practically does not diverge when exposed to water. Dissolves candelilla and carnauba wax in oils and organic solvents.
To whom is shown andcontraindications
The use of candelilla wax in cosmetics is indicated for people with problematic and mixed skin types. The plant substance has proven itself in the fight against pustular rash and acne.
Due to its ability to constrict blood vessels, it is often recommended for the treatment of skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis, eczema, herpes zoster, dandruff, colds, psoriasis, allergic skin rashes caused by contact with poisonous plants.
Candelilla wax is hypoallergenic, does not cause allergies, skin and mucous membrane irritation. The only contraindication may be individual intolerance to the component.
Use in cosmetics
Candelilla wax mixes perfectly with all other types of wax, not only vegetable, but also animal. Moreover, it is combined with fatty acids, glycerides, natural and synthetic resins. Due to its high melting point, unlike beeswax, it is resistant to heat and is considered one of the best thickeners in the production of cosmetics, making them plastic and viscous.
Because of its ability to absorb slowly and create a protective film, thus providing a longer lasting effect on the skin, milkweed wax is very often added to hand creams.
In decorative cosmetics, the substance is used as a matting component of cream powder, a hardener and thermostat for lipstick, a moisture-repellent element in mascara,a hair strengthening & lustering treatment.
Wax is used in cosmetics due to its ability to form an invisible film on the surface of the skin, thereby having a beneficial effect:
- prevents dehydration, chapping and harmful UV rays;
- provides protection against allergic reactions to chemical and household products, as well as poisonous plants;
- smoothes fine lines and softens the skin;
- differs in anti-inflammatory and antibacterial action, effective in the fight against acne;
- treats and relieves the pronounced symptoms of many dermatological diseases.
The plant is widely used in the production of face and body creams, lipsticks and lip balms. The plastic properties of the component are ideal for the manufacture of massage creams, which should have a soft texture and easy glide.
Excellent water repellency makes it an essential ingredient in mascara and eyeliner. Natural gloss and durability are indispensable qualities for any lipstick. In addition, candelilla wax protects the delicate skin of the lips from dryness and prevents the formation of cracks.
For an example, let's compare which cosmetic products use the wax in question and its analogues.
Concentration
Candelilla wax is included in cosmetic products in the following concentration:
- Standard dose is 2 to 10%.
- Content in cream -about 5%.
- In lip care products - up to 10%.
Often the component is used in combination with beeswax and carnauba wax. Can't overheat. However, if cosmetics are made at home, with a strong fire it starts to smoke, in this case it is recommended to reduce the fire.
A measuring spoon of 1.25 ml equals 0.8 g of milkweed wax.
Use of candelilla wax in home cosmetics
To appreciate the beneficial properties of the substance, it is recommended to use it in home preparation of face and body skin care products. Homemade cosmetic preparations are distinguished by their soft structure, rich and plastic consistency, and better durability.
For people with signs of allergy to bee products, milkweed wax will be an excellent replacement in cosmetics. At the same time, there is no need to look for new recipes for cosmetics, you can use the usual, proven products, replacing beeswax with candelilla. However, it will need twice as much. This is explained by its greater density.
When making cosmetic preparations at home with the addition of candelilla wax, the following proportions must be observed:
- creams for hands, face and body - about 5%;
- lipstick, gloss and lip balm - from 10 to 13%;
- cosmetic soap - 5%.
Making care productsbody products, beeswax and carnauba wax can be replaced with candelilla. It is added in liquid form at the stage of emulsification. You need to drown it on moderate heat so that it does not lose its beneficial properties.
Candelilla wax is stored in a dark place at room temperature. Shelf life - 3-4 years from the date of manufacture.
