Candelilla wax

Candelilla wax ( Candelilla Wax ) is derived from the plant Pandilanthus pavinia, which grows in North America and Mexico. In terms of characteristics it is similar to carnauba wax, but has a lower melting point of 67–70°C. This completely natural wax is widely used in both the cosmetic and food industries.

Candelilla wax is used in the production of lip balms, creams, lotions, ointments, body butters, solid soaps, etc. It is added to products as a hardener, to create a nicer and more glossy finish, and to regulate the viscosity of creams, lotions, butters, etc. If using it as a substitute for beeswax, it is important to note that candelilla is twice as strong a hardener as beeswax, and therefore only half the quantity should be added to your formula. If a recipe calls for 100g of beeswax, for example, this can be replaced with 50g of candelilla wax.

The wax comes in the form of yellowish pellets or flakes and has no specific scent. It is melted in oils and has a melting point of approximately 68°C.

Usage:

• lip balms and anhydrous ointments: 1 - 15%
• lotions, creams: 1 - 5%

Basic recipe for lip balms:

3 parts liquid carrier oils (calendula, hemp, tamanu, almond, olive, jojoba, castor, macadamia,...)

• 1/2 part candelilla wax
• 1 part solid butter (shea, cocoa, murumuru, illipe,...)
• essential oils (1-2 drops per 15g of product)

Specific recipe for 45 g lip balm:

• 25g calendula oil
• 5g castor oil
• 5g candelilla wax
• 10g shea or cocoa butter
• essential oil of choice (3-6 drops)

Melt all ingredients except the fragrances in a double boiler in a heat-resistant container. Once the ingredients are melted and well mixed, add the essential oil and pour everything into prepared tubes or lip balm pots. Once the balms have completely cooled, close the pots/tubes and label them.

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