Natural mineral wax (mountain wax). Occlusive thickener in sticks and lipsticks, inert.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
Inert mineral wax. Safe.
Ozokerite (mountain wax, ceresin) is a natural mineral wax from fossil remains of paraffin oils. Composed of saturated hydrocarbons C29–C53, melting point – 60–82 °C. In cosmetics it is used as a thickener and emulsion stabilizer. Where applied. Lipsticks and lip glosses (5–20%), balms, solid deodorant forms, ointments and cosmetic wax forms, contouring products. In medicine it was historically used in physiotherapy (ozokerite therapy) for osteoarthritis and neuralgia. Safety. CIR confirmed safety in 2008 provided purification standards are met (absence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons). Non-comedogenic at cosmetic purification grade. Non-irritating. Systemic absorption through intact skin is absent. Pregnancy and lactation – safe topically. Suitable in lip balms during gestational cheilitis. Alternatives. Carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, synthetic wax. For patients allergic to bee products, ozokerite is a suitable beeswax alternative. Limitations. Some patients with hand eczema may have mineral wax intolerance – then replaced with synthetic wax or natural plant waxes.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora 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.
Ozokerite is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Ozokerite suits: normal, dry, combination. Use with caution in: oily.
Natural mineral wax (mountain wax).
The INCI name is Ozokerite. It may also appear as: Mineral Wax.
Published: · updated:
Use with caution