Carnuba Wax

Carnauba wax is a highly durable, 100% natural, plant-derived wax harvested from the leaves of the Brazilian Carnauba Palm tree (Copernicia prunifera). The tree naturally secretes this wax as a protective coating to reduce water loss during the dry season. It is manually harvested by shaking the dried leaves, making it a sustainable and non-animal-derived product known as the "Queen of Waxes."
 

Carnauba earned this royal nickname due to its superior physical properties. It has the highest known melting point of any natural wax (around 82–87 °C / 180–188 °F) and is exceptionally hard and glossy. This makes it an unparalleled choice for applications that require a durable, high-shine finish, such as automotive waxes, floor polishes, and protective coatings.
 

In cosmetics, Carnauba wax is essential as a structuring agent and thickener. Because of its high melting point, it is crucial for creating firm, stable products like lipsticks, mascara, and eyeliner pencils that need to hold their shape and resist melting during use or in warm conditions. It also imparts a beautiful, natural shine to these formulations.
 

Yes, Carnauba wax is completely vegan as it is derived entirely from a plant source (the palm leaf). It is often used to replace beeswax in formulations, especially when a higher melting point is required. Carnauba is significantly harder and provides a glossier finish than beeswax, but it is generally less pliable and moisturizing than the softer Beeswax or Candelilla wax.
 

Yes, Carnauba wax is widely considered safe and is approved by the U.S. FDA as a food-grade ingredient and food additive (E903). It is frequently used to provide a protective, appealing glaze or polish to candies (like jelly beans), chewing gum, medicines, and some baked goods. This coating seals in moisture, prevents sticking, and makes the product look shiny.
 

In car waxes, Carnauba's superior hardness and high melting point create an extremely durable and protective shell on the vehicle's paint. This hard shell resists breakdown from UV rays, road grit, and heat. Furthermore, its inherent glossiness is what gives the car paint that deep, wet, mirror-like shine that detailing enthusiasts highly prize.
 

When used in topical products like balms, Carnauba wax acts as an emollient and protective film former. It helps create a durable, non-tacky barrier on the skin that effectively seals in moisture and protects the skin from harsh external factors. While it doesn't offer direct nourishment, it works to lock in the benefits of other moisturizing ingredients.
 

Carnauba wax is generally considered a non-comedogenic ingredient. Because its molecules are quite large, it does not typically penetrate the pores. This makes it a suitable hardener and film-former for makeup products like mascara and lipsticks, as it provides structure without contributing to clogged pores or breakouts.
 

Carnauba wax itself is extremely stable due to its high melting point and long shelf life. Products containing it (like car waxes or lipsticks) should be stored in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight. While the wax won't melt easily, consistent exposure to extreme heat can degrade other oils and preservatives in the finished product.
 

Carnauba wax is generally considered a highly sustainable ingredient. It is harvested from the leaves of the wild-growing palm tree, a process that does not harm the tree itself—only the dried leaves are collected. Ethical sourcing ensures that the workers are compensated fairly and that traditional harvesting methods, which have been used for generations, are respected and maintained.