Ceresin
A mineral wax. It structures sticks and rich textures and holds shape and pigments. Inert to skin.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Ceresin is a mineral wax derived and refined from ozokerite. In cosmetics it structures sticks and dense textures, gives the product consistency and helps hold its shape and pigments in place. It is common in lip sticks, solid deodorants and ointments. This is a functional formula component, not a skincare active. Its job is to give body and stability, not to treat skin. As a wax it forms an occlusive film on the surface that slightly cuts water loss, a real but limited emollient effect. On its own it corrects nothing. Applied topically it is practically inert and has no systemic relevance, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tolerability is good, with low irritation and allergy potential. It suits sensitive skin and counts as an inert ingredient that almost all skin types accept calmly.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ceresin safe during pregnancy?
Ceresin is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Ceresin for?
Ceresin suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Ceresin and what does it do in cosmetics?
A mineral wax.
What's the INCI name for Ceresin?
The INCI name is Ceresin. It may also appear as: Ceresin Wax.
See Ceresin in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Ceteareth-12, Ceteareth-20, Ceteareth-23, Ceteareth-25, Helianthus Annuus Seed Cera, PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, PVP, Tributyl Citrate
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