Cosmowax - Emulsifying Wax for Cosmetics

Cosmowax

• INCI Name:
  Varies by grade (commonly blends of Cetyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, and/or synthetic waxes)
• Molecular Formula:
  Not applicable (wax blend)
• CAS Number:
  Not a single CAS (mixture depending on supplier grade)
• 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.