Description

Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Cera is derived from the flowers of the Nelumbo nucifera plant, commonly known as the lotus. This wax is appreciated for its emollient, protective, and stabilizing properties, making it a valuable ingredient in various cosmetic formulations.

Chemical Composition and Structure

Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Cera contains:

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

Physical Properties

Appearance: Solid or semi-solid, usually white or slightly yellowish.
Odor: Mild, floral fragrance characteristic of lotus flowers.
Solubility: Insoluble in water, soluble in organic solvents such as oils and other waxes.
Melting Point: Typically between 60°C and 75°C, depending on purity and composition.
Boiling Point: Not applicable; the wax is not intended for boiling and will decompose at high temperatures.

Production Process

Harvesting: Lotus flowers of Nelumbo nucifera are collected at the appropriate stage of flowering.
Extraction: The wax is extracted from the flowers using methods like hot or cold extraction.
Filtration: The extracted wax is filtered to remove impurities and obtain a pure product.
Purification: Further purification is performed to remove any residual substances and improve quality.
Packaging: The purified wax is packaged in airtight containers to protect it from light and moisture.

Applications

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

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