Many vegans avoid eating products containing carnauba wax. Even though it comes from a plant, the manufacturing process contains hydrocarbons and fatty alcohols, which make it not suitable for vegans. It is important to check labels to ensure that you are purchasing vegan-friendly products.
Candelilla wax
Carnauba wax is a natural wax made from the leaves of a small plant, Candelilla. It contains a low percentage of hydrocarbons and is mostly composed of fatty esters. It has a very high melting point and is used as a thickener and stabiliser in cosmetics and hair styling products. The wax is also hypoallergenic and can be polished to a high gloss.
Candelilla wax is a natural substance that serves a wide variety of purposes in skin care and beauty products. It does not have an odour and is suitable for many types of cosmetics. It also helps to hydrate skin and soothe stretch marks. It also works as a barrier, making it a good choice for candles.
Candelilla wax is considered a safe product by the Food and Drug Administration and is generally recognized as safe for human consumption. It is approved for use in cosmetic products, including lip products, body lotions, and hair preparations.
Vegetable oil
Carnauba wax is a natural wax that is obtained from the leaves of the wax palm, a tropical tree native to South America and locally known as the “Tree of Life.” The wax is harvested from these trees, and it is used for a variety of purposes. It is melted and then formed into cakes. Carnauba wax is available in several grades.
There is a significant difference between carnauba and candelilla wax. The latter is harder than the former, but its melting point is higher. It is therefore a better alternative for certain applications. The two types of wax are often combined in cosmetics to make them even more effective.
In studies of pitaya fruit, researchers found that coatings of carnauba and candelilla wax delayed the rotting of the fruit. These coatings also increased the biosynthesis of pitaya fruit’s nutrients. The results suggest that carnauba wax and vegetable oil can delay ripening and protect fresh produce.
Beeswax
Carnauba wax is a plant-based alternative to beeswax and can be used in the formulation of vegan body care products. However, it is not a 1:1 substitute for beeswax, and it should only be used in conjunction with other plant-based butters. If used alone, carnauba wax will result in a brittle finished product.
While both beeswax and carnauba wax are non-toxic, those with allergies should avoid them. If you are allergic or sensitive to these products, it is important to consult your GP or a doctor before using them. If you find a particular product contains them, try to avoid it until you get a complete diagnosis.
Beeswax is a byproduct of honey, which can’t exist without it. Unfortunately, bees are killed and injured when they are harvested for the beeswax. However, many vegans argue that it is not ethical to exclude the byproduct from vegan products. Nevertheless, it is not impossible to go 100% vegan.
