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Moumoujus

SODIUM BEESWAX.

Valuable CAS 97721-96-5 / SKIN CONDITIONING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Sodium Beeswax is a multifunctional ingredient, expertly crafted as an emulsifier to stabilize complex formulations and a skin conditioning agent that enhances barrier integrity. It effectively unites oil and water phases while supporting the skin's natural moisture retention.

Summary

Emulsifying Skin Conditioning Barrier Support Moisture Retention Emollient

Science

Mechanism of Action

Operating primarily as an anionic emulsifier, Sodium Beeswax facilitates the stable blending of immiscible liquids like oils and water by reducing interfacial tension through its amphiphilic (lipophilic and hydrophilic) structure. Concurrently, it acts as a robust skin conditioning agent, forming a protective lipid barrier on the skin's surface. This action significantly minimizes transepidermal water loss (TEWL), thereby boosting the stratum corneum's moisture content and contributing to skin barrier restoration, mirroring the emollient and anti-inflammatory benefits observed in its parent ingredient, beeswax.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Studies on beeswax (the base ingredient) indicate its topical use supports the skin barrier, minimizes transepidermal water loss (TEWL), functions as a humectant and emollient, and can alleviate symptoms associated with dermatitis and psoriasis. Specific clinical studies on Sodium Beeswax with effective concentrations are not readily available.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 7 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

Beeswax, with a pH range of 7-8, is inherently stable. Sodium Beeswax is formed via a reaction between cerotic acid in beeswax and sodium hydroxide, yielding an anionic emulsifier (sodium cerotate) that effectively stabilizes emulsions. Its optimal functionality and stability are observed within a neutral to slightly alkaline pH environment.

Conflicts

  • oxidizing agents
  • acids

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
56%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that Beeswax, the foundational ingredient for Sodium Beeswax, is safe for use in cosmetics, a finding reaffirmed in 2005. Beeswax was historically used at concentrations up to 56% in certain lip products. For Sodium Beeswax specifically, CIR indicates safety for cosmetic use, with the qualification that formulations should prevent irritation.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Sodium Beeswax is a valuable ingredient, serving as an effective emulsifier and skin conditioner to enhance formulation stability and support skin barrier function across all skin types with low risk of irritation or comedogenicity.

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