What it is
Copernicia Cerifera Cera is the wax harvested from the leaves of the Brazilian carnauba palm and is one of the hardest natural waxes, with a high melting point. In cosmetics it is used to add structure and firmness to anhydrous and emulsion systems, raise melting points in sticks, and form smooth films on the skin surface. In sunscreen sticks and balms it helps maintain product hardness and shape.
Safety & warnings
Carnauba wax has a long record of safe use in cosmetics and food and is generally non-irritating and non-sensitizing at use levels. It is widely regarded as low on the comedogenicity scale and is well tolerated by most skin types.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; obtained from the leaves of the carnauba palm, Copernicia prunifera (syn. Copernicia cerifera).
Questions everyone asks
What does carnauba wax do in a sunscreen stick?
It adds hardness and structure and helps the stick hold its shape, while contributing a smooth film on the skin.
Is carnauba wax plant-based?
Yes. It is harvested from the leaves of the carnauba palm and is a plant-derived wax.