Microcrystalline Wax

Microcrystalline Wax helps to thicken the lipid (oil) portion of cosmetics and personal care products and hence keep emulsions from separating into their oil and liquid components. The fine crystal structure also enables microcrystalline wax to bind solvents or oil, preventing the sweating-out of compositions. It has elastic and adhesive characteristics, which are related to its non-straight chain components and wherefore (beside its viscosity increasing and emulsion stabilizing properties) it is used in styling waxes.