what is emulsifying wax?

Here's a recent "ask the expert" question submitted on Zaega.com. 

Q:  I notice that you have products on your site that use emulsifying wax NF. What is that truth on this ingredient? Does it contain petrochemicals?

A:  (from Melissa, the expert cosmetic chemist) Emulsifying wax is a commonly used emulsifying ingredient in lotions, creams and conditioners.  There are a few different types of emulsifying wax, but the most common is a blend of fatty alcohols (nontoxic, nonirritating emollient-type surfactants –see my article on alcohols here) and polysorbate-60 (a synthetic ethoxylated ingredient which is a very good emulsifier).  There is also an organic emulsifying wax which is a blend of beeswax, carnauba wax and lecithin.  Generally-speaking these ingredients are used in emulsions at less than 5% and are nontoxic, nonirritating and mostly naturally-derived.

If you have a question about beauty products, send an email to us by clicking here!

-Melissa

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admin
Posts: 1

RE ingredients
Reply #2 on : Sun December 02, 2012, 18:14:51

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Hi Kate,

I am not familiar with Keeki, but their ingredient list indicates that their nail polish formula falls into the category of "water-based". Due to the generic nature of their ingredient declaration, however, you cannot tell what exact acrylate copolymer, thickening agents or colorants they are using. That doesn't necessarily mean you should worry about safety...

Re the nail polish remover -yes, the ingredients sound good, but again, since they are not labeling according to INCI nomenclature, it's hard to know exactly what ingredients are being used. If you like the product, and like the company, you should continue using it as occassional use of nail polish applied in a well-ventilated area should not be cause for health concern.

Hope that helps! Thanks for your question!
Melissa

Kate
Posts: 1

ingredients
Reply #1 on : Sat December 01, 2012, 17:15:33

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Hi again,

Keeki makes their nail polish with:

water, acrylate copolymer, thickening agents and non-toxic colorants

I emailed them to ask for the specific ingredients as you recommend, but am wondering if you are familiar with this company.

Also, their nail polish remover is vegetable alcohol, vitamin E and aloe. That sounds pretty good, don't you think?

Thanks

Kate

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