Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax

What is Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax?

Copernicia cerifera wax, commonly known as carnauba wax, is harvested from the dried leaves of the Copernicia cerifera palm native to northeastern Brazil. It is the hardest naturally occurring vegetable wax, characterized by a high melting point of 82–86°C and a composition primarily of aliphatic esters, diesters of fatty acids, and hydroxycinnamic aliphatic diesters. In cosmetics, it belongs to the wax category and functions mainly in hair removal products. As an epilating agent, it forms a cohesive strip or bead that adheres selectively to hair shafts, enabling mechanical removal from the follicle upon pulling. In depilating formulations, it contributes to product viscosity and stability, aiding the application of mixtures that facilitate hair dissolution or loosening at the surface. Its glossy finish and film-forming properties enhance product texture and performance.

Comedogenic Rating 1/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Epilating agent
Removes hair from the root.
Depilating agent
Chemically breaks down hair’s keratin structure (commonly via thiol chemistry) to enable painless hair removal at the skin surface in depilatory creams.

Benefits

Offers firm structure for reliable hair adhesion during removal.

Derives from renewable plant sources for a natural profile.

Maintains low pore-clogging potential in formulations.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals seeking plant-based hair removal options.
Those with known allergies to palm-derived materials.
Users concerned about comedogenic ingredients.
Individuals with active skin abrasions or infections.
People using epilating strips or depilatory waxes.
Persons experiencing irritation from wax-based products.

Safety Notes

  • Assessed as safe for cosmetic use by regulatory reviews.
  • Presents low comedogenic risk based on ratings.

Frequently Asked Questions about Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax

What is carnauba wax sourced from?

It comes from the leaf exudate of the carnauba palm tree in Brazil.

Is it safe for skin in hair removal?

Regulatory assessments confirm safety in cosmetic applications.

Does it clog pores?

It has a low comedogenic rating, reducing pore-clogging risk.