Researched by Helena DeMaria-Williams
Formula IngredientEmollientCandelilla Cera
INCI: Candelilla Cera
Candelilla Cera is a natural vegetable wax extracted from the leaves of the candelilla shrub (Euphorbia cerifera and Euphorbia antisyphilitica), native to northern Mexico and the southwestern United States. It functions primarily as an emollient and film-forming agent, creating a protective layer on the skin surface that locks in moisture and imparts a high-gloss finish. It is widely used in lip products, mascaras, and stick formulas to provide body, structure, and texture stability at its relatively high melting point of approximately 70°C.
Category
Emollient
Irritation Risk
Low
Skin Types
all skin types, dry skin, sensitive skin, acne-prone skin, lip and eye area
What does this do in a formula?
emollient, film forming, skin protection, moisture retention, texture stabilisation, high-gloss finish, natural vegan alternative to beeswax
Is Candelilla Cera safe? Key considerations
Can Candelilla Cera cause irritation?
Low RiskCandelilla Cera has an irritancy rating of 0 (non-irritating) per INCIDecoder. It is not a known sensitiser and is not subject to any EU CosIng Annex II or III restrictions. Adverse reactions are extremely rare at cosmetic use concentrations.
Does Candelilla Cera increase sun sensitivity?
No RiskCandelilla Cera does not increase photosensitivity. No sun protection precautions are required based on its inclusion in a formulation.
Is Candelilla Cera safe during pregnancy?
SafeCandelilla Cera is a plant-derived wax with no known reproductive or developmental toxicity concerns. It is used topically at low concentrations and is not absorbed systemically in meaningful amounts. No EWG or clinical pregnancy concerns are documented for this ingredient.
How does Candelilla Cera work?
Candelilla Cera is a natural vegetable wax extracted from the leaves of the candelilla shrub (Euphorbia cerifera and Euphorbia antisyphilitica), native to northern Mexico and the southwestern United States. It functions primarily as an emollient and film-forming agent, creating a protective layer on the skin surface that locks in moisture and imparts a high-gloss finish. It is widely used in lip products, mascaras, and stick formulas to provide body, structure, and texture stability at its relatively high melting point of approximately 70°C.
Individuals with MANUAL REVIEW: No widely documented contraindications. Individuals with specific plant wax allergies should patch test. should review the considerations above before use.
Which products contain Candelilla Cera?
Shop products that contain Candelilla Cera
