Description

Sambucus nigra cera, commonly referred to as elderberry wax, is a natural wax derived from the fruit or seeds of the Sambucus nigra plant, known as elderberry. This wax is used in cosmetic and personal care products for its emollient and stabilizing properties. It is appreciated for its ability to enhance the texture and consistency of formulations while providing a protective barrier on the skin.

Chemical Composition and Structure

Sambucus nigra cera consists of various chemical components:

Fatty Acids: Such as palmitic acid and stearic acid, which contribute to the wax's emollient and thickening properties.
Long-Chain Alcohols: These help in forming a protective layer on the skin and improving the stability of cosmetic formulations.
Esters: Fatty acid esters that enhance the wax's ability to create a smooth, non-greasy texture in products.
Hydrocarbons: Provide the wax with its solid structure at room temperature.

Physical Properties

Sambucus nigra cera has the following physical characteristics:

Color: Typically a yellow to light brown hue.
Odor: Generally has a mild, neutral scent or may retain a subtle fruity aroma.
Texture: Solid at room temperature but melts at a relatively low temperature, making it easy to incorporate into various formulations.
Solubility: Insoluble in water but soluble in oils and solvents, which is typical for waxes.

Production Process

The production of Sambucus nigra cera involves several steps:

Harvesting: Sambucus nigra fruits or seeds are collected when they are ripe.
Extraction: The wax is extracted from the plant material, often using solvent extraction or mechanical pressing.
Purification: The crude wax is purified to remove impurities and unwanted components.
Processing: The purified wax may be further processed to adjust its consistency and melting point.
Packaging: The final product is packaged in appropriate containers to protect it from contamination and degradation.

Applications

Sambucus nigra cera is used in a variety of cosmetic and personal care products, including:

Skin Care Products: Such as creams, balms, and lotions, where it acts as an emollient and stabilizer.
Lip Products: Incorporated into lip balms and glosses to provide texture and a protective layer.
Hair Care Products: Used in hair styling products to add hold and manageability.

Safety

Sambucus nigra cera is generally regarded as safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products when used as directed. It is important to use it within recommended levels and formulations. Individuals with known allergies to elderberry or similar plants should exercise caution.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

The production of Sambucus nigra cera should be conducted with consideration for sustainability. This includes responsible harvesting practices, minimal use of chemicals during extraction, and effective waste management to reduce environmental impact. Quality control is essential to ensure that the wax is free from contaminants and maintains its beneficial properties.

INCI


Fragrance. It plays a very important role in the formulation of cosmetic products as it provides the possibility of enhancing, masking or adding fragrance to the final product, increasing its marketability. It is able to create a perceptible pleasant odour, masking a bad smell. The consumer always expects to find a pleasant or distinctive scent in a cosmetic product.
Synonyms:

CAS: 84603-58-7 EC number 283-259-4