Candelilla Wax vs Beeswax: Everything You Wished You Knew
Deciding on a zero-waste, sustainable alternative for everyday products can be difficult, especially during the early days of your sustainable living journey. From choosing between products made from candelilla wax vs beeswax, wooden straws vs metal straws and handwoven shopping bag vs a tote bag- the possibilities are confusing and endless!
In this article, we will discuss the different types of natural waxes and their benefits, comparing candelilla wax vs beeswax and help you choose the best option for your personal use.
Over the years, more and more households have adopted a sustainable way of living, as global awareness of climate change has become more prominent.
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What Is Beeswax?
Beeswax (scientifically known as Cera alba) is a natural wax produced by worker bees, which forms the walls of the honeycomb. It has various uses in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, food and cosmetics.
Types of Beeswax
There are three types of beeswax:
- yellow beeswax,
- white beeswax and
- beeswax absolute.
The yellow variety is pure, extracted beeswax, the white version is yellow beeswax that has been bleached, whereas beeswax absolute is alcohol-treated beeswax.
Beeswax absolute is mainly used to enhance fragrance in perfumes.
Additionally, it is also used to mask unpleasant odours in cleaning products. However, the white and yellow variety both play similar roles as stiffening agents in food products. They are also used as emulsifiers and thickening agents in cosmetic products.
So, you must be wondering; why should you include beeswax in your daily life?
Beeswax Benefits
Beeswax is a versatile and natural resource that brings multiple physical health benefits. It is moisturising, anti-inflammatory and a superb humectant (helps to retain moisture in your skin).
Health Benefits Of Beeswax
According to research, it has been shown that beeswax has antiseptic and healing properties when included with other ingredients, which may be effective for treating acne.
In addition, it is anti-inflammatory and relieves pain for those who have eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis.
Besides that, research has shown that beeswax has a unique characteristic which helps to lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and helps to increase good cholesterol (HDL).
Aromatherapy
Did you know that beeswax can also be utilised as an aromatherapy agent? Candles made from beeswax have been shown to help you relax and have a good night sleep.
What Is Candelilla Wax?
Candelilla wax is a plant-based wax, obtained from a small shrub called Euphorbia Cerifera and Euphorbia Antisyphilitica.
Candelilla quite literally means ‘little candle’ as the leaves are covered with wax. The plant is native to Mexico, but its usage has gained prevalence worldwide.
In the US, candelilla wax is an FDA-approved food additive.
Candelilla Wax Benefits
There are many advantages to using this vegan-friendly wax, especially when it comes to formulating and using cosmetic products containing candelilla wax.
Candelilla Wax Skin Benefits
Firstly, candelilla wax is an excellent moisturising agent.
Aside from adding moisture, it is also a humectant (which means it prevents loss of moisture). You will find that using moisturisers with candelilla will leave your skin hydrated, especially for those with dry skin.
Secondly, candelilla wax is also an exceptional binding agent.
It mixes well with other natural and synthetic waxes. This nourishing ingredient assures makeup products, such as eyeshadow and mascara, do not lose their consistency easily.
Thirdly, as a plant-based wax, candelilla may be a preferable choice for vegans or those who intend to reduce their use of animal-based products.
Candelilla Wax vs Beeswax: A Comparison
Although both of these multipurpose ingredients are largely similar in terms of their properties, there are several criteria that differentiate beeswax vs candelilla wax.
The table below breaks down candelilla wax vs beeswax:
| Candelilla Wax | Beeswax | |
| Source | Candelilla Plant | Bees |
| Moisturising | Yes | Yes |
| Anti-inflammatory | Yes | Yes |
| Stabilising | Yes | No |
| Absorbent | Highly absorbent | Non absorbent |
| Humectant | Yes | Superior humectant |
| Fragrance | No fragrance | Has fragrance |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes | Not suitable if allergic to pollen or honey |
| Suitable for vegans | Yes – plant-based | No – animal-based |
Similarities Between Candelilla Wax vs Beeswax
Candelilla wax and beeswax share a number of similar properties.
Firstly, they are both superb moisturising ingredients.
Hence, they are suitable for those with dry, sensitive skin. Besides that, both ingredients can also be included in hair products to help add moisture to dry hair and scalps.
Did you know that a person’s scalp is an extension of their facial skin?
Secondly, both candelilla wax and beeswax are anti-inflammatories, which means they have soothing properties. This makes them crucial ingredients in creams and lotions for treating acne, burns and various skin conditions.
Thirdly, these natural waxes are both humectants.
A humectant is a moisturising agent, which is able to retain moisture. This is achieved by preventing water loss in multiple surfaces, including the skin.
In this case, however, beeswax is a better humectant compared to candelilla wax.
Examples Of Beeswax Products
Products Containing Beeswax
Beeswax is commonly added to lip balms, moisturisers and hand creams, helping to hydrate dry skin and soothe inflammation.
In the food industry, beeswax is used as a protective layer on fruits, resulting in the shiny apples seen at supermarkets.
On the other hand, beeswax is mainly used in medicines to help lower cholesterol levels and function as a pain reliever.
In manufacturing, it is used as a special lubricant and even in the production of CDs and electronic components. Other examples are shoe polish and cleaning products for furniture and floors.
Here are some examples of products made from beeswax:
1. Beeswax Wraps
Beeswax wraps are known as the eco-friendly alternative to cling wrap, which is often non-recyclable. Beeswax wraps are reusable and made with antibacterial ingredients to help preserve the freshness of your groceries.
Saffron and Serai is a sustainable homeware brand focused on minimising waste in their production.
Their beeswax wraps are made from recycled fabrics and are coated in high-quality organic ingredients such as jojoba oil and pine resin, ensuring that they are reusable for a long period of time.
This, in turn, will help you reduce your spending (and carbon footprint) in the long run.
Head over to Saffron & Serai website to purchase their Beeswax Food Wrap.
2. Lip Balms
In lip balms, beeswax ensures that your lips stay hydrated and moisturised. It does this by absorbing moisture from the air, which will help to retain moisture in your lips.
Beessential, an American family-owned business, sells beeswax lip balms at an affordable price. This combo pack consists of 18 lip balms, so you get more by spending less!
Burt’s Bees is a brand renowned for its beeswax-based products, including the popular Burt’s Bees Lip Balms.
3. Beeswax Candles
Instead of using traditional candles, why not try using beeswax candles, as an eco-friendly alternative?
Beeswax candles last longer as they burn slower, which means you will buy less in the long run. Moreover, we all know that buying less is a great way to save the environment.
Hyoola’s all-natural beeswax candles will help you get started on your sustainable journey. These handmade candles come in packs of 12, which can last for up to 100 hours in total.
If you are looking for gift options, these pure beeswax candles make a perfect eco-friendly gift for any occasion. 100% Natural and Chemical-free, air-purifying, long-lasting and burn brighter.
Aside from traditional candles or taper candles, you can also get beeswax candles in a tea light form. These Toadily Handmade Beeswax Candles use cotton wicks and are lovingly handmade.
If you would like a hands-on candle-making experience, check out this DIY beeswax candle-making kit.
4. Hand Creams
Keeping our hands moisturised is a struggle, whether in dry and warm climates or even in the winter. Using hand creams made from beeswax will aid in adding and retaining moisture.
Beeswax Salve from Savannah Bee is made from 100% natural products, including beeswax and fragrant essential oils. This salve intensely hydrates and nourishes damaged skin.
“Happy Hands” Lotion Bar by Seattle Sundries contains beeswax and natural shea butter, which will provide you with all the moisture that you need. These lotion bars help soothe dry cracked skin and provide potent nourishment, without being diluted. The intense moisture lasts much longer than liquid lotions!
This healing salve by The Naked Bee says it all; providing moisture to your hands and cuticles and soothing ‘hardworking hands’ with a delightful shea butter fragrance. Shea butter helps to reduce skin issues, Beeswax helps to soften and protect the skin with natural antibacterial properties.
The all-purpose Beeswax Butter Balm by Made from Earth is suitable for applying to your body, hands and lips. Beeswax naturally seals in moisture.
5. Bar Soaps
In an effort to reduce plastic waste (which requires a significant amount of energy to produce), switch to bar soap for a change.
Beessential has a line of bar soaps that are available in a variety of scents, such as refreshing tea tree, soothing lavender, peppermint honey and greek yoghurt!
The Oatmeal & Honey Triple Milled Soap from The Naked Bee contains cruelty-free beeswax, which gives the soap its moisturising properties and maintains the shape of the soap.
6. Beeswax Pellets
Make your own DIY lip balms and beeswax-based cosmetic products by getting these beeswax pellets. The pellets are cosmetic grade and triple filtered, which helps to make it smooth once it is mixed with other ingredients.
Beeswax is known for its amazing effects on the skin. It helps to treat acne, eczema, dry skin and leaves your complexion smoother, softer and radiant!
Why not get started on making your own body butters, lotions, deodorants, soap, and lip balms!
7. Furniture Polish
Thanks to the protective layer of the beeswax, it is a beneficial ingredient in polishing agents.
SunShield Outdoor Furniture Wax consists of a concoction of organic wax and essential oil, plus UV blockers to give your furniture that glossy finish and sun protection.
This versatile, natural beeswax furniture polish is suitable for various types of furniture. You will also get the cleaning tools with each purchase.
Examples Of Candelilla Wax Products
Products Containing Candelilla Wax
Similar to beeswax, candelilla wax is also used in the food and cosmetic industry. You can find candelilla wax in chewing gum, where it is used as a binding agent.
In cosmetic products, you may find candelilla wax in lotions and lip balms as it is moisturising, nourishing and skin conditioning.
Here are some examples of products made from candelilla wax:
1. Dental Floss
Candelilla wax is an eco-friendly wax which can be used to coat dental floss. Choosing organic over traditional dental floss is one habit that you can nurture towards a sustainable and zero-waste free lifestyle.
This vegan dental floss consists of bamboo charcoal fibre, candelilla wax and peppermint oil. Apart from the biodegradable floss, the reusable and refillable stainless steel container means there will be zero waste once you are done using it.
If you are looking to make a small lifestyle change, you can opt for this silk dental floss instead, which is stored in a quaint, refillable glass container.
2. Candelilla Wax Pellets
Want to make your own vegan cosmetic products? Browse through the list below for organic candelilla wax options.
This pack of candelilla pellets is perfect for your next DIY project. Whether it’s making candles, homemade lip balms or even hand cream.
Alternatively, candelilla wax suppliers are in abundance online, if you need to stock up or looking to buy candelilla wax in bulk.
Candelilla wax suppliers:
Jedwards International, Inc. supplies a variety of raw products and materials, including candelilla wax, carnauba wax and beeswax.
CALWAX caters to clients in multiple industries and ensures that their product is in line with the demands of today’s businesses, such as recycled wax, packaging wax and dental wax. Get in touch with CALWAX.
3. Pet Balms
Aside from humans, candelilla wax is also pet-friendly! Pamper your furry friends with the luscious pet balm, which will help to soothe and moisturise dry paws.
Farm Dog Balm is formulated with GMO-free and vegan-friendly ingredients. The balm is suitable for paws, heals inflammation and dry skin, as well as wrinkles. Farm Dog focus on cruelty-free and 100% plant based ingredients that are ethically sourced.
The Soothe & Heal Balm by Vet Recommended is made from organic essential oils and candelilla wax and can be used for dogs and cats. The roll-on applicator makes it easy to use.
4. Hand Creams
Moisturise and indulge your skin with this French Lavender Hand Cream. A combination of lavender extract, candelilla wax and essential oils makes it a calming and hydrating experience.
Check out this all-purpose organic cream which soothes dry skin, using all natural plant and botanical ingredients and is hypoallergenic.
5. Lotions
Are you struggling with getting a well-rested sleep at night? Give the Good Night Lotion from Earthley Wellness a try. The magnesium chloride promotes sleep and helps you to stay asleep for longer. It can also be used as a natural remedy for headaches and stomachaches.
Alternatively, you can get this easy-to-apply lotion bar from Seattle Sundries Store, which has a pleasant scent and moisturises dry and rough skin with intense moisturising properties that lasts longer than liquid lotions.
6. Lip Balms and Lip Scrubs
One of the ways to keep your lips hydrated throughout the day is by using these best-selling lip balms and lip scrubs.
This lip conditioning scrub, gently exfoliates your lips overnight using 100% natural ingredients. This lip scrub nourishes and soothes dried lips ensuring that your lips are gently exfoliated upon use, leaving you with soft, supple lips all day long. The beeswax conditions and hydrates lips and helps your lips look and feel beautiful and primed for smooth lipstick application.
This vegan lip balm is derived from 100% plant ingredients that are free from synthetic compounds and toxic chemicals. It helps to nourish even the driest of lips with rich plant oils.
Carnauba Wax Vs Beeswax
Now that we have discussed beeswax, candelilla wax and compared properties of candelilla wax vs beeswax, there is another type of natural wax which is commonly used. It is called carnauba wax.
What Is Carnauba Wax?
Carnauba wax is a natural, plant-based wax, which can be obtained from the leaves of a carnauba palm (Copernicia prunifera).
This plant is native to Brazil, where the yellow wax is harvested by beating dried leaves and subsequently processed before use.
Products Containing Carnauba Wax
Carnauba wax is extensively used and added in products from various industries, such as manufacturing, cosmetics and food industry.
In manufacturing, there are various polishing products with carnauba wax. This includes shoe polish, car polish and hair wax.
In food products, you may find carnauba wax used as food coating to prevent them from melting. This applies to food such as candies and chocolates.
Carnauba Wax Benefits
There are several benefits to including carnauba wax in your daily life. Carnauba wax is moisturising, emollient and is a superb thickening agent.
In skincare products, carnauba wax is very moisturising, making it suitable for those with dry skin. Besides that, it gives a glossy finish to makeup products when applied.
Due to its high melting point, carnauba wax makes for a first-rate polishing agent. It is an in demand ingredient in vehicle wax and is also used in hair wax.
As we have become acquainted with carnauba wax, let’s have a look at the comparisons between carnauba wax and beeswax, as well as candelilla wax.
The table below breaks down carnauba vs beeswax:
| Carnauba Wax | Beeswax | |
| Source | Carnauba Palm | Bees |
| Moisturising | Yes | Yes |
| Anti-inflammatory | No | Yes |
| Stabilising | Yes | No |
| Absorbent | Yes | Not absorbent |
| Humectant | Yes | Very humectant |
| Fragrance | Hint of fragrance | Has fragrance |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes | Not suitable if allergic to pollen or honey |
| Suitable for vegans | Yes – plant-based | No – animal-based |
Candelilla Vs Carnauba Wax
The table below breaks down candelilla wax vs carnauba wax:
| Candelilla Wax | Carnauba Wax | |
| Source | Candelilla Plant | Carnauba Palm |
| Moisturising | Yes | Yes |
| Anti-inflammatory | Yes | No |
| Stabilising | Yes | Yes |
| Absorbent | Highly absorbent | Yes |
| Humectant | Yes | Yes |
| Fragrance | No fragrance | Hint of fragrance |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes | Yes |
| Suitable for vegans | Yes – plant-based | Yes – plant-based |
Similarities And Differences: Candelilla Wax Vs Carnauba Wax
On the surface, it does seem that both candelilla wax and carnauba wax are similar in some of their properties.
Both of the waxes are plant-based, excellent humectants, moisturising, stabilising and hypoallergenic. However, there are several differences between the two plant-based waxes.
In terms of purpose, carnauba wax is frequently used and added in industrial-grade products such as vehicle polishing wax, whereas candelilla wax is often found in commercial products such as lip balms and body lotions.
Final Thoughts
To conclude, each type of wax has unique properties and benefits its users in various ways. As we have discussed, all the waxes are soothing and moisturising to the skin.
Generally, they are used in similar products such as candles, lip balms and furniture wax. Although they slightly differ in terms of stabilising and humectant properties, it is one step that you can take to help save the environment.
At the end of the day, choosing between products made from candelilla wax vs beeswax, or carnauba wax depends on what you’re looking for when incorporating sustainable living habits into your daily life.
Candelilla Wax Vs Beeswax : Everything You Wished You Knew
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