What is it?
Emulsifying Wax is a complete vegetable-derived emulsifying wax used to create oil-in-water emulsions.
INCI
Cetearyl Alcohol (and) Polysorbate 60
Appearance
Small white beads/pastilles.
Usage rate
2–25%, though 25% would be unnecessary in almost everything.
Scent
Nothing much.
Approximate Melting Point
50°C (122°F)
Charge
Non-ionic
Solubility
Oil
Why do we use it in formulations?
In lotions and creams it functions as an all-in-one emulsifier as well as contributing some thickening.
In cleansing oils and balms it creates products that self-emulsify on contact with water. It also brings the “cleansing” element as Emulsifying Wax is made up of molecules that have an oil-loving and a water-loving end; the oil-loving end grabs the oil on your skin, and the water-loving end grabs the water you are washing with to rinse away easily.
Do you need it?
I’d highly recommend having either Emulsifying Wax on hand.
Strengths
It is a very simple to use, pretty much foolproof complete emulsifying wax. It works reliably at 20–25% of your oil phase.
Weaknesses
Some people object to Emulsifying Wax as it is not considered “natural“, though it is perfectly safe to use.
How to Work with It
Melt it into your heated oil phase; it needs to be heated to incorporate.
Storage & Shelf Life
Stored somewhere cool, dark, and dry, Emulsifying Wax should last at least two years.
Recommended starter amount
50–100g (2–3oz)
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