Microcrystalline Wax

Microcrystalline Wax molecular structure
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Petrolatum wax, Paraffin wax, Microcrystalline paraffin
Plant-Derived
Emulsifier
Wax
Clean
OriginDerived from crude oil petroleum sources as a byproduct of mineral oil refining processes. Produced through hydrogenation and crystallization of mineral oil fractions to achieve controlled crystal structure.
Cera Microcristallina (EU),Hydrocarbon Waxes, Microcryst,Petroleum Wax, Microcrystalline
CAS #
63231-60-7
Form
Wax
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Binding
Bulking
Emulsion Stabilising
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Viscosity Controlling
Moisturizing
Improves Elasticity
Holds ingredients together
Adds volume
Keeps product blended
Controls product thickness
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
1 study / 1 not sensitizing (CIR 205)
Not Phototoxic
Product formulation test found no phototoxicity in the CIR safety assessment (CIR 205)
Mixed Eye Irritation Results
3 studies / 1 mixed / 2 not irritating / reactions slight (CIR 205)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
5 studies / 3 irritating / 1 mixed / 1 not irritating / reactions slight to mild (CIR 205)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.092–30%
Rinse-off0.75–34.5%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2022 survey
Regulatory Status
USA✔ permitted
EU⚠ restricted
JAPAN⚠ restricted
CANADA⚠ restricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR