Description

Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Wax is derived from the flowers of the Nelumbo nucifera plant, also known as the lotus. This plant-based wax is valued for its emollient, protective, and stabilizing properties in cosmetic and skincare formulations.

Chemical Composition and Structure

Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Wax contains:

Wax Esters: The primary component of the wax, providing a solid texture and forming a protective film on the skin.
Fatty Acids: Contribute emollient, moisturizing, and protective functions.
Fatty Alcohols: Enhance stability and texture in cosmetic formulations.
Traces of Flavonoids and Phenolic Compounds: Offer antioxidant and potentially anti-inflammatory properties.
The chemical structure of the wax includes wax esters, fatty acids, fatty alcohols, and, in smaller amounts, flavonoids and phenolic compounds.

Physical Properties

Appearance: Solid or semi-solid, with an opaque white or slightly yellowish color.
Odor: Light floral fragrance characteristic of lotus flowers.
Solubility: Insoluble in water, soluble in organic solvents such as oils and waxes.
Melting Point: Typically between 60°C and 75°C, varying based on purity and specific composition.
Boiling Point: Not applicable; the wax is not intended for boiling and decomposes at high temperatures.

Production Process

Harvesting: Lotus flowers of Nelumbo nucifera are collected at the optimal time.
Extraction: The wax is extracted from the flowers using hot or cold extraction methods.
Filtration: The wax extract is filtered to remove impurities and obtain a pure product.
Purification: The wax is further purified to eliminate unwanted substances and improve quality.
Packaging: The purified wax is packaged in sealed containers to protect it from contamination and maintain its quality.

Applications

Cosmetic: Used in cosmetics such as creams, balms, and ointments for its emollient and protective properties. Helps stabilize formulations, improve texture, and create a protective barrier on the skin.
Pharmaceutical: Included in pharmaceutical preparations for its protective and stabilizing properties.
Food: Rarely used in food applications but may be employed as a coating agent in specific formulations.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Biodegradability: The wax is generally biodegradable and considered environmentally friendly when managed properly.
Toxicity: Generally regarded as safe for topical use. However, like all waxes, it should be used according to established guidelines to avoid potential allergic reactions or skin irritations. Individuals with allergies or very sensitive skin should exercise caution. It is important to ensure the wax is sustainably sourced and free from harmful chemicals.
Disposal: Should be disposed of in accordance with local environmental regulations. Proper disposal methods should be followed to prevent environmental contamination.

INCI Functions:


Skin conditioning agent. It is the mainstay of topical skin treatment as it has the function of restoring, increasing or improving skin tolerance to external factors, including melanocyte tolerance. The most important function of the conditioning agent is to prevent skin dehydration, but the subject is rather complex and involves emollients and humectants that can be added in the formulation.

Surfactant - Foam booster. It has the effect of introducing gas bubbles into the water and affects the cleaning process by helping to spread the cleanser. Since sebum has an inhibiting effect on the bubble, more foam is produced in the second shampoo.
Synonyms:

CAS: 85085-51-4 EC number 285-379-2