Ingredient
Beeswax
What is Beeswax?
Beeswax is a natural wax produced by honey bees of the genus Apis. It is created by worker bees which secrete the wax from glands on their abdomen and use it to construct honeycombs in their hives.
In personal care products, beeswax acts as a thickening agent and an emollient, providing texture and moisture retention. It is commonly found in lip balms, lotions, and creams. Current research indicates that beeswax is generally considered safe for topical use, with no major health concerns reported.
On labels, beeswax is often highlighted as a natural ingredient, and it is widely accepted in formulations aimed at sensitive skin due to its soothing properties.
Commonly found in: Lip Care, Body Lotion, Deodorant, Skin Care, Sunscreen, Hair & Skin
Benefits
- Provides a protective barrier to the skin, helping to lock in moisture.
- Acts as a natural thickener in cosmetic products, improving texture and application.
Beeswax is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for its use in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
Research supports its use in cosmetics for its emollient properties and general safety as a non-irritating ingredient.
Beeswax is an animal-derived product, typically avoided in vegan formulations.
Sources: Cosmetic Ingredient Review: Final Report on Beeswax and Beeswax Derivatives
Scout's take
Natural, renewable wax; burns cleanly with minimal soot; biodegradable
The case against
Beeswax is generally safe, but it may cause allergic reactions in individuals with bee product allergies.
from the analysis of Little Seed Farm Deodorant Cream LavenderGenerally safe, but may cause allergic reactions in those sensitive to bee products.
from the analysis of Babo Botanicals Daily Sheer Sunscreen SPF 40Beeswax is generally safe, but those with bee allergies should exercise caution.
from the analysis of Little Seed Farm All Natural Deodorant Cream Aluminum Free Deodorant for WomenAllergic reactions can occur in individuals sensitive to bee products.
from the analysis of Official Sky and Sol Daily All-In-One Face MoisturizerThe case for
Beeswax provides a protective barrier and helps to stabilize the deodorant, improving its texture and longevity.
from the analysis of Little Seed Farm Deodorant Cream LavenderBeeswax helps to soften and soothe the skin while providing a protective barrier.
from the analysis of Official Sky and Sol Daily All-In-One Face MoisturizerIt helps to retain moisture and provides a smooth texture to the product.
from the analysis of Little Seed Farm All Natural Deodorant Cream Aluminum Free Deodorant for WomenProvides a protective barrier and helps retain skin moisture.
from the analysis of Babo Botanicals Daily Sheer Sunscreen SPF 40More from Scout's analyses
Cera alba -- natural occlusive wax that creates a thin breathable barrier on skin while structuring sticks/balms. Replaces petrolatum and synthetic waxes.
from the analysis of BASED Magnesium Deodorant (Santal)Benign functional ingredient — low toxicity concern.
from the analysis of Toups & Co Natural Deodorant (No Baking Soda)Beeswax is a natural wax produced by honeybees and is commonly used in lip balms for its emollient properties. It is safe for lip and skin contact and ingestion, providing a protective barrier that helps retain moisture.
from the analysis of Quantum Health Lip Clear Lysine+ Cold Sore TreatmentFound in 45 products
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