Candelilla wax ( milk milk wax ) is a substance of plant origin, which is widely used in the manufacture of cosmetic, medical and household goods, as well as food products. It has a lot of useful properties and is not demanding on storage conditions. In the article, we consider what this substance contains and what properties it has.
Description
Candelilla wax is extracted from the leaves of a bushy plant common in Mexico, euphorbia antisyphyllitic, as well as pedilanthus pavonis. They are found in some states of North America. Shrubs are often called candelilla because of their outward resemblance to small candela church candles.
Plant wax covers the ground part of the bush, thus protecting its root system from drying out in a hot desert.
An analogue is carnauba wax, which is also used in the manufacture of cosmetics and food. But such a substance is extracted from the lower leaves of the palm of Copernicia cerifera.
Structure
As with most substances of plant origin, the composition of candelilla wax includes:
- esters from 33 to 35%;
- hydrocarbons in an amount of 50-58%;
- acids (cyclic and aliphatic) - 9-10%;
- lactones not more than 6%;
- resins, mostly triterpenoid esters - 12-14%.
In addition, but in minimal proportions: steroids, minerals, sterols, neutral resins. The composition has a significant molecular weight.
Getting
The bush produces the largest amount of wax at the age of 2-5 years. Its production lasts for 12 months. However, during the period of precipitation, with increasing air humidity, productivity decreases. It is worth noting that the wax obtained from plants growing in arid and dry climates is of the highest quality.
How is the substance extracted:
- The branches of the bush, abundantly covered with wax, are cut off, dried in direct sunlight for about two weeks.
- Then they are crushed and sent to heat in a water bath.
- Sulfuric acid is added to the chopped branches, it promotes the release of a substance from the plant, and also destabilizes the water emulsion formed by heating.
- The wax separated in the process is collected and dried in the sun for some time.
- After that, the product is refined, in other words, it is again brought into a liquid state, filtered and, if necessary, clarified.
- Refined or bleached wax is subjected to processing, as a result of which it takes on a granular, lumpy, powder, tablet or sheet form.
- Then candelilla wax is added to cosmetics, medical supplies, etc.
As a result of refining, the plant matter becomes hard and brittle, unlike the bee counterpart, and not as dense as the Carnauba counterpart. After cooling, the candelilla wax does not gain its maximum strength even after a few days.
In the world, the annual production of this type of wax is approximately 900 tons, which proves its relevance in a wide variety of industrial sectors, from medical and cosmetic to food.
Beneficial features
Due to its wide spectrum of action and its properties, candelilla wax has found its application in many products of various purposes.
Among its useful properties are:
- water retention ability;
- mild bactericidal effect;
- strengthens hair follicles;
- softens hair structure;
- gives shine;
- interferes with dehydration of the skin;
- relieves the inflammatory process;
- different vasoconstrictor effect.
The agent in question has a solid structure and practically does not diverge when exposed to water. Candelilla and carnauba wax dissolve in oils and organic solvents.
Who is indicated and contraindications
The use of candelilla wax in cosmetics is indicated for people with problem and mixed skin types. The plant substance has proven itself in the fight against pustular rash and acne.
Due to the ability to narrow blood vessels, it is often recommended for the treatment of skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis, eczema, herpes zoster, dandruff, cold sores, psoriasis, allergic skin rashes caused by contact with poisonous plants.
Candelilla wax is a hypoallergenic drug that does not cause allergies, irritation of the skin and mucous membranes. The only contraindication may be individual intolerance to the component.
Application in cosmetics
Candelilla wax mixes well with all other types of wax, not only of plant origin, but also of animal. Moreover, it is combined with fatty acids, glycerides, natural and synthetic resins. Due to the high melting point, unlike beeswax, it is resistant to heat and is considered one of the best thickeners in the manufacture of cosmetics, making them plastic and viscous.
Due to its properties, it is slowly absorbed and creates a protective film, thereby providing a longer lasting effect on the skin, milk milk wax is very often added to hand creams.
In decorative cosmetics, the substance is used as a matting component of cream powder, a hardener and thermostat for lipstick, a water-repellent element in mascara, and a hair shine that strengthens and gives hair shine.
Wax is used in cosmetics due to the ability to form an invisible film on the surface of the skin, thereby exerting a beneficial effect:
- prevents dehydration, weathering and the harmful effects of UV rays;
- provides protection against allergic reactions to chemicals and household products, as well as poisonous plants;
- smoothes fine wrinkles and softens the skin;
- different anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effect, effective in combating acne;
- treats and relieves the pronounced symptoms of many dermatological diseases.
Herbal remedy is widely used in the manufacture of face and body creams, lipsticks and lip balms. The plastic properties of the component are ideal for the manufacture of massage creams, which should have a soft texture and easy to slip.
Excellent water-repellent property makes it the most important component of mascara and eyeliner. Natural gloss and durability are indispensable qualities for any lipstick. In addition, candelilla wax protects delicate lip skin from dryness and prevents cracking.
For example, we compare in which cosmetic products the wax in question and its analogues are used.
Concentration
Candelilla wax is included in cosmetic products in such a concentration:
- The standard dose is from 2 to 10%.
- The content in the cream is about 5%.
- In lip care products - up to 10%.
Often, the component is used in combination with bee and carnauba wax. Not able to overheat. However, if cosmetics are made at home, it begins to smoke when the fire is high, in which case it is recommended to reduce the heat.
A measuring spoon, the volume of which is 1.25 ml, is equal to 0.8 g of milkweed wax.
The use of candelilla wax in home cosmetics
To appreciate the beneficial properties of the substance, it is recommended to use it in the home preparation of face and body skin care products. Home-made cosmetic products are distinguished by softness of structure, rich and plastic consistency, and better durability.
For people with signs of allergies to bee products, milk milk wax will be an excellent substitute for cosmetics. At the same time, there is no need to seek out new recipes for cosmetics, you can use the usual, proven means, replacing beeswax with candelilla. However, it will need half as much. This is explained by its greater density.
In the manufacture of cosmetics at home with the addition of candelilla wax, the following proportions must be adhered to:
- creams for hands, face and body - about 5%;
- lipstick, gloss and lip balm - from 10 to 13%;
- cosmetic soap - 5%.
When making body care products, beeswax and carnauba wax can be replaced with candelilla wax. It is added in liquid form at the emulsification stage. It needs to be heated on moderate heat so that it does not lose its beneficial properties.
Candelilla wax is stored in a dark place at room temperature. Shelf life is 3-4 years from the date of manufacture.