Cera Alba

Good

Texture enhancer

Cera Alba at a glance

  • Commonly called beeswax
  • Made by honeybees
  • Contains multiple fatty acids and fatty alcohols
  • Rich in flavonoids

Cera Alba description

_Cera alba_ is the INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) term for what is commonly known as beeswax. It is a natural wax produced by honeybees in the process of building their hives. Because of its emollient and occlusive nature, beeswax has been used since antiquity in treatments for a variety of skin ailments. Modern science backs up this usage, as beeswax is comprised of multiple fatty acids and fatty alcohols that restore skin, making it especially useful for those who have a damaged barrier. Beeswax is also a good source of flavonoids which provide antioxidant benefits. _Cera alba_ is most commonly used in skin protectant cosmetics, particularly in moisturizing balms and lip products. The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review has ruled beeswax safe in its current usage in cosmetics. Note: while beeswax is a vegetarian ingredient, it is generally not considered vegan, as it is derived from an animal byproduct.

Cera Alba references

  • SpecialChem.com, Website, Accessed November 2024
  • ScienceDirect.com, Website, Accessed November 2024
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, August 2023, pages 2,166–2,173
  • Molecules, January 2020, pages 1–17
  • International Journal of Toxicology, January 2005, pages 1-102

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.