Authority source
Safety basis: CIR
CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review) assessment
Beeswax
Cera AlbaCera Flava
Emollient, Thickener, Emulsifier
Beeswax is a natural wax made by honey bees. It helps make products thicker, holds them together, and can make skin feel soft.
What it is
Beeswax is a natural wax produced by honey bees, primarily used to thicken products, stabilize emulsions, and provide a protective barrier on the skin.
Found in
lip balms, lotions, creams, ointments, hair pomades, mascaras, candles
The concern
No significant concerns identified, though rare allergic reactions can occur in sensitive individuals.
Legal status
The FDA considers beeswax Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for food use and it is widely permitted in cosmetics in the US and EU.
Low Concern
The CIR Expert Panel concluded that beeswax is safe for use in cosmetics.
Evidence & sources
Article / explainer
Article / explainer
No highly relevant article explainer found yet.
Community questions
Community questions
Community discussions are not used as safety evidence and no highly relevant discussion is shown for this ingredient.
Related ingredient guides
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Last updated: June 15, 2026