Product: Cosmowax D
Rchem Cosmowax D is a high-purity, self-emulsifying wax blend, presented as white to off-white, waxy beads, flakes, or pastilles. It is a carefully balanced mixture of emulsifying agents, typically comprising Cetearyl Alcohol (a fatty alcohol) and a high-HLB non-ionic emulsifier such as Ceteareth-20 or Polysorbate 60. Renowned for its ease of use and exceptional ability to produce stable, elegant oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions without the need for additional emulsifiers, it is a cornerstone “one-stop” emulsifier for the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries, ideal for creams, lotions, and ointments.
Category: powder
Description
Key Features & Benefits:
● Excellent natural thickening agent with high viscosity at low concentrations
● Effective stabilizer for emulsions and suspensions in various formulations
● Clean-label ingredient suitable for organic and natural product formulations
● Improves texture and shelf life in food products
● Enhances viscosity and stability in cosmetic formulations
● Cost-effective alternative to synthetic thickeners and stabilizers
Technical Specifications Table:
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VEGAN SUITABLE
Chemical Formulae
Frequently Asked Questions:
What exactly is Cosmowax D, and how does it differ from Cetearyl Alcohol alone?
Cosmowax D is a self-emulsifying wax – a pre-blended mixture designed to both emulsify and thicken. Cetearyl Alcohol alone is a fatty alcohol that functions as an emollient, thickener, and co-emulsifier but cannot form a stable emulsion on its own. Cosmowax D combines Cetearyl Alcohol (for body/stability) with a high-HLB emulsifier (e.g., Ceteareth-20) (for emulsification). This means Cosmowax D can be used as the complete emulsifying system, whereas Cetearyl Alcohol requires an additional emulsifier.
Generally, no. Cosmowax D is designed as a "one-stop" self-emulsifying system. For most standard O/W creams and lotions with oil phases of 5-25%, Cosmowax D alone (at 3-8%) will produce stable, elegant emulsions. However, for: (1) Very high oil phases (>30%); (2) Formulations with challenging oils (e.g., pure silicones, mineral oil without co-emulsifiers); (3) Specific texture requirements – you may add co-emulsifiers (Glyceryl Stearate, Span 60) or additional thickeners. For most routine formulations, additional emulsifiers are unnecessary.
Do I need to add other emulsifiers when using Cosmowax D?
It depends on the specific grade and certification requirements. Traditional Cosmowax D uses Ceteareth-20, which is an ethoxylated emulsifier. Ethoxylated ingredients are generally not permitted in strict natural certifications (e.g., ECOCERT, COSMOS, NATRUE). However, natural self-emulsifying wax alternatives are available that use non-ethoxylated emulsifiers (e.g., Glyceryl Stearate Citrate, Cetearyl Glucoside, or Cetearyl Olivate). Rchem can supply natural-certified self-emulsifying waxes upon request. Please specify your certification requirements.
Is Cosmowax D suitable for natural or ECOCERT-certified formulations?
Cosmowax D requires heat to melt the waxy components and properly hydrate the emulsifier. It is designed for hot-process emulsification. Standard method: (1) Heat Cosmowax D and oil phase to 70-75°C (158-167°F) until fully melted; (2) Heat water phase to the same temperature; (3) Slowly add water phase to oil phase with mixing; (4) Homogenize; (5) Cool slowly with gentle stirring. It is not suitable for cold-process emulsions as the wax will not melt and emulsify properly.
Can Cosmowax D be used in cold-process or hot-process emulsions?
Handling: Cosmowax D is a waxy solid (beads/flakes) at room temperature. Use appropriate PPE including gloves and safety goggles. Avoid inhalation of dust. Formulation: For O/W emulsions, add Cosmowax D to the oil phase. Heat both phases to 70-75°C (158-167°F). Add the water phase to the oil phase with high-shear mixing. Continue mixing while cooling to room temperature. Typical usage: 3-8% of total formula. Storage: Store in a cool, dry place in tightly sealed original containers. Protect from moisture, extreme heat (store below 40°C / 104°F), and direct sunlight. Shelf life is typically 24-36 months under proper storage. Always refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for comprehensive handling, safety, and first-aid information.
