Microcrystalline wax
Microcrystalline wax is a refined petroleum wax made mostly of branched and cyclic saturated hydrocarbons, with a finer crystal structure, higher melting point and more flexibility than paraffin wax. It is made by de-oiling the heavy residual fraction left after lube oil distillation, then hydrotreating or clay-treating it. Cosmetic brands buy it as pastilles or slabs to stiffen and bind oils in lipsticks, balms, mascaras and stick products.
Suppliers sell different products under the same name. Specify the one you need.
Higher melting point microcrystalline waxes (around 80-90 °C) that add structure to sticks.
Lower melting, more flexible grades that hold oil and reduce cracking.
Fully refined grades meeting FDA, FCC or pharmacopeial specifications.
Physical forms; pastilles melt and weigh more easily in production.
Compare each result with your own specification when the lot arrives.
Store microcrystalline wax in closed bags or boxes in a cool, dry area away from heat and sunlight. It is chemically stable. Shelf life follows the supplier's specification, with a retest of appearance and melting point for older stock.
Record melting point, penetration and UV absorbance result for each lot, since hardness can vary between lots and refineries and changes stick strength. Rotate FIFO and keep a retained sample of an approved lot.
Facts from regulators and standards bodies, each linked to its source.
The FAO/WHO JECFA specification defines microcrystalline wax as a refined mixture of solid, saturated hydrocarbons, mainly branched paraffin, obtained from petroleum.
Source: fao.org (opens in a new tab)WHO's JECFA database lists microcrystalline wax (INS 905c) with an ADI of 0-20 mg/kg bw.
Source: apps.who.int (opens in a new tab)Health Canada's Natural Health Products Ingredients Database lists microcrystalline wax with non-medicinal purposes including binder, emulsion stabilizer and viscosity increasing agent, for topical use.
Source: webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca (opens in a new tab)This is general information, not regulatory advice. Status differs by country and by how the ingredient is used, so check the rules for your product and market.
Manufacturers and distributors whose own websites say they sell it.
Manufacturer · Watertown, CT
Connecticut wax company that refines and supplies beeswax, plant waxes, petroleum waxes, emulsifying waxes and esters for cosmetic, pharmaceutical and industrial uses.
Manufacturer · West Babylon, NY
New York wax refiner that imports, refines and blends beeswax, candelilla, carnauba and petroleum waxes for cosmetic, pharmaceutical and food uses.
Suppliers are in alphabetical order and none pays to appear. Each claim is checked against the supplier’s own website on the date shown. Ask for the specification sheet and a recent COA before you order, and confirm details with the supplier.
Common forms include hard grades, plastic / soft grades, food / pharmaceutical grade and pastilles and slabs. Ask each supplier for the specification sheet of the exact grade they quote.
Expect melting range, viscosity at 100 °C, needle penetration, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, color and oil content and heavy metals, each with its method, specification and result for that lot.
Store microcrystalline wax in closed bags or boxes in a cool, dry area away from heat and sunlight. It is chemically stable. Shelf life follows the supplier's specification, with a retest of appearance and melting point for older stock.
The FAO/WHO JECFA specification defines microcrystalline wax as a refined mixture of solid, saturated hydrocarbons, mainly branched paraffin, obtained from petroleum. WHO's JECFA database lists microcrystalline wax (INS 905c) with an ADI of 0-20 mg/kg bw. Health Canada's Natural Health Products Ingredients Database lists microcrystalline wax with non-medicinal purposes including binder, emulsion stabilizer and viscosity increasing agent, for topical use.
Request a free listing for the ingredients you make or distribute. No paid placement.