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Home > Science > What is the Difference Between Candelilla Wax and Carnauba Wax?

Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Candelilla Wax and Carnauba Wax?

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Candelilla wax and carnauba wax are both natural waxes with various applications, but they have different properties and origins. Here are the main differences between the two:

  • Origin: Candelilla wax is derived from the leaves of the Candelilla plant (Euphorbia antisyphillitica), which grows naturally in the Chihuahua desert. Carnauba wax, on the other hand, is obtained from the leaves of a Brazilian palm tree (Copernicia prunifera).
  • Carbon Content: Candelilla wax has a high carbon content (about 50%), while carnauba wax contains a low carbon content (about 3%).
  • Melt Point: Candelilla wax has a lower melt point range (68.5°C-72.5°C) compared to carnauba wax, which has the highest melt point range (80°C-86°C) of all natural waxes.
  • Appearance and Consistency: Candelilla wax has a glassy appearance and is hard, while carnauba wax is medium soft and slightly gritty.
  • Functional Properties: When blended with other waxes, candelilla wax imparts hardness without raising the melt point, making it highly desirable for certain applications. Carnauba wax enhances oil retention, is a stable coemulsifying agent, and is effective as a viscosity builder in cosmetic and personal care applications.

In summary, candelilla wax and carnauba wax have different origins, carbon content, melt points, appearances, and functional properties. While they both have important applications in various industries, their specific properties make them more suitable for certain uses over others.

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  • What is the Difference Between Candelilla Wax and Carnauba Wax?
  • Comparative Table: Candelilla Wax vs Carnauba Wax

    • Comparative Table: Candelilla Wax vs Carnauba Wax

    Candelilla wax and carnauba wax are both natural waxes derived from plants, but they have different properties and uses. Here is a table comparing the two:

    Property Candelilla Wax Carnauba Wax
    Origin Derived from the leaves of the small candelilla plant Obtained from the leaves of a Brazilian palm tree (Copernicia cerifera)
    Carbon Content High carbon content (about 50% hydrocarbons) Low carbon content (about 3% hydrocarbons)
    Melting Point 68-73°C 80-84°C
    Saponification Value 43-65 mg KOH/gr 2-5 mg KOH/gr
    Acid Value 12-22 mg KOH/gr 6-9 mg KOH/gr
    Appearance Glassy, transluscent Medium soft, slightly gritty
    Consistency Hard, difficult to stir Easy to stir, slightly gritty
    Absorption Faster than other waxes, smooth feel on the skin Difficult to absorb, slippery feel on the skin
    Uses High oil binding capacity, adjusts viscosity in water-in-oil emulsions, imparts gloss and hardness in cosmetic products such as hair wax and lipstick Used in hair wax, lipstick, and other cosmetic products

    Candelilla wax has a higher carbon content and is harder than carnauba wax, making it more suitable for applications where a glassy appearance and high durability are desired. Carnauba wax, on the other hand, is softer and easier to stir, making it more suitable for products like hair wax and lipstick where a medium soft consistency is preferred.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.