Is Beeswax Comedogenic?
Comedogenic rating: 2/5 — Low–moderate risk
Beeswax is a structuring wax that adds body, hold and a protective film. In cosmetics it is typically found in balms, sticks, mascaras and rich creams. Its INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) name is Cera Alba. On a label it may also appear as cera alba, cera flava.
| Comedogenic rating | 2/5 — Low–moderate risk |
|---|---|
| Pore-clogging | Low–moderate |
| Fungal-acne safe | Yes |
| Category | Wax |
| INCI name | Cera Alba |
| Also known as | cera alba, cera flava |
Is Beeswax comedogenic?
Beeswax carries a low-to-moderate comedogenic rating of 2 out of 5. Most people tolerate it well and it is unlikely to be a primary cause of breakouts. If your skin is extremely acne-prone, keep a light eye on it in leave-on products used around the T-zone, but for most users it is not a major concern.
Does Beeswax cause fungal acne?
Beeswax is generally considered fungal-acne (Malassezia) safe. It is not among the oils, fatty acids or polysorbates known to feed Malassezia yeast, so it should not aggravate fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) for most people.
Should you use Beeswax if you're acne-prone?
Beeswax is fine for normal, dry and combination skin. Very acne-prone users should introduce it slowly and watch for congestion, but it does not need to be avoided outright.
How Beeswax compares to other waxs
| Ingredient | Rating | Pore-clogging |
|---|---|---|
| Beeswax | 2/5 | Low–moderate |
| Lanolin | 1/5 | Unlikely |
| Jojoba Oil | 2/5 | Low–moderate |
| Acetylated Lanolin | 4/5 | Likely |
Frequently asked questions
Is Beeswax comedogenic?
Beeswax carries a low-to-moderate comedogenic rating of 2 out of 5. Most people tolerate it well and it is unlikely to be a primary cause of breakouts. If your skin is extremely acne-prone, keep a light eye on it in leave-on products used around the T-zone, but for most users it is not a major concern.
Does Beeswax cause fungal acne?
Beeswax is generally considered fungal-acne (Malassezia) safe. It is not among the oils, fatty acids or polysorbates known to feed Malassezia yeast, so it should not aggravate fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) for most people.
Is Beeswax safe for acne-prone skin?
Beeswax is fine for normal, dry and combination skin. Very acne-prone users should introduce it slowly and watch for congestion, but it does not need to be avoided outright.
What products is Beeswax found in?
Beeswax is a structuring wax that adds body, hold and a protective film, and is commonly found in balms, sticks, mascaras and rich creams.
What can I use instead of Beeswax?
Look for non-comedogenic emollients rated 0–1 such as squalane, glycerin, hemp seed oil or sunflower oil.
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