Carnauba wax - the queen of waxes

Carnauba wax is a yellowish-brown wax from the leaves of the carnauba palm, which naturally occurs in the northeast of Brazil. The wax is known as the queen of waxes, because it is such a stable and versatile product. The leaves of the carnauba palm secrete a fatty substance during the hottest period of the year to protect themselves. This wax is used and obtained from the leaves by beating them.

Carnauba wax is widely used in cosmetics to give products firmness and shine, but also in food; think for example of the glossy coating on licorice and wine gums. Unlike beeswax, which is also often used for these reasons, carnauba wax is plant-based and therefore suitable for vegans.

It is an ideal ingredient to make your own lip balm or deodorant stick, for example. It provides extra firmness so your product doesn't melt as quickly. It also gives a beautiful shine and cares for your skin by attracting and retaining moisture in your skin.

How to use carnauba wax

Depending on what your DIY recipe is, you determine the amount and melt the desired amount of carnauba wax in a double boiler. The melting point is very high (between 82 and 86 °C), so it may take a while. Once it has melted, add your other ingredients and heat them briefly so you can mix them well.

Pour your mixture into a glass bottle or jar and let it cool.