Cosmowax
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INCI Name:
Varies by grade (commonly blends of Cetyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, and/or synthetic waxes)
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Molecular Formula:
Not applicable (wax blend)
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CAS Number:
Not a single CAS (mixture depending on supplier grade)
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Alternate Names:
- Cosmetic Wax Blend
- Emulsion Wax
- Thickening Wax
- Stabilizing Wax
- Cosmo Wax
Key Benefits:
- Improves viscosity and thickness of formulations
- Stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions
- Enhances cream and lotion texture
- Provides smooth, rich skin feel
- Acts as co-emulsifier and consistency builder
- Improves product stability and shelf life
Benefits & Uses (Short):
- Used in creams, lotions, body butters, and ointments
- Helps stabilize emulsions and prevent separation
- Improves texture and spreadability
- Adds creamy, luxurious consistency to formulations
- Common in skincare and cosmetic manufacturing
Recommended Usage Level:
- Creams & Lotions: 2% – 10%
- Body Butters: 3% – 15%
- Hair Conditioners: 1% – 5%
- Ointments: 2% – 10%
- Emulsions: 1% – 8%
How It Works (Short):
- Functions as a fatty alcohol-based wax system that increases viscosity in emulsions
- Helps oil and water phases stay uniformly mixed and stable over time
- Forms a structured network that improves thickness and cream body
- Enhances spreadability while maintaining a rich skin feel
- Reduces formulation separation and improves product stability
- Works synergistically with emulsifiers like Glyceryl Stearate, Polysorbates, and Cetearyl Alcohol
Olfactory Notes:
- Mild waxy odor
- Slight fatty note depending on grade
- Generally neutral in finished formulations
- Does not interfere with fragrance systems
FAQs:
Q: What is Cosmowax used for?
A: It is used as a thickener, stabilizer, and texture enhancer in creams, lotions, and emulsions.
Q: Is Cosmowax an emulsifier?
A: It is mainly a co-emulsifier and stabilizer rather than a primary emulsifier.
Q: Can Cosmowax be used in hair conditioners?
A: Yes, it improves viscosity and creaminess in conditioners.
Q: Does Cosmowax affect skin feel?
A: Yes, it provides a smooth, rich, and non-greasy skin feel when properly formulated.
Q: Is Cosmowax natural?
A: It depends on the grade; some versions are plant-derived while others are synthetic blends.
