Beeswax (Cera alba)

Common Names

Beeswax ⁽¹⁾

INCI Name

Beeswax, Cera Alba ⁽¹⁾ ⁽²⁾

Method of Extraction

Melted and Strained

Therapeutic Properties

• Antibacterial ⁽¹⁾ ⁽³⁾

• Anti-inflammatory ⁽³⁾

• Anti-microbial ⁽³⁾

• Anti-ulcer ⁽³⁾

  
  

Physical Properties & Energetics

• Colour: Light - Dark Yellow

• Odour: Mild, Faint Honey

• Viscosity & Feel: Plasticity, softening with a slight adhesive quality

• Absorption Rate: Non-absorbing, forms a protect film on the skin's surface

• Energetics: Warming (Mild) ⁽⁷⁾

Safety & Ratings

• Comedogenic Rating: 0-2 (Moderately low; unlikely to clog pores for most skin types) ⁽¹⁾

• EWG Rating: 1 - 2 ⁽⁴⁾

• Shelf Life: Indefinite, provided it is stored in a cool, dark, and dry environment. ⁽⁶⁾

• Patch Test Note:

  • While beeswax is naturally gentle and suitable for most skin types, rare allergies to bee products can occur. Always perform a patch test on a small area of skin (like the inner arm) 24 hours before full application, especially if you have known sensitivities to bee stings or other hive products. Discontinue use if irritation occurs.

• Method of Application: Topical use only

Best For

• Skin Type: All skin types including sensitive ⁽¹⁾

• Concerns: Wounds, Atopic Dermatitis, Psoriasis, Burns, Boils, Ulcers, Carbuncle

Product Formulation

• Amount to Use in Products: 5 - 20%; 100% if making Candles ⁽⁵⁾

• Typical Ratios: 6 parts Carrier Oil (mL) to 1 Part Beeswax (g) (6:1)

  • 60 mL of carrier oil = 10 g of beeswax

  • 100 mL of carrier oil = 16.67 g of beeswax

• Uses: Salves, Lotion Bars, Palmade, Soap, Candles, Cold Cream

Applications

Wound Healing & Dermatological Treatment

Research compiled in a 2014 review highlights several therapeutic applications for beeswax in dermatology. ⁽⁸⁾ ⁽⁹⁾ Traditionally incorporated into ointments and creams, it has been used to address conditions including minor wounds, boils, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and Candida-associated diaper dermatitis. ⁽⁸⁾ ⁽⁹⁾ It has also been shown that flavonoids such as chrysin contribute anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, while beta-carotene supports cell turnover, delays collagen breakdown, and may offer protection against UV-related skin damage and carcinogenesis. ⁽⁸⁾ ⁽⁹⁾ Additionally, vitamin A has been linked to accelerated granulation and tissue repair, further supporting beeswax's role in wound management. ⁽⁸⁾ ⁽⁹⁾

A 2021 study on mice found that topical application of Cera Flava (yellow beeswax extract) for six weeks improved atopic dermatitis symptoms by modulating inflammatory cytokines and strengthening the skin barrier, suggesting it may serve as a steroid-free alternative for treatment. ⁽¹⁰⁾

A randomized controlled trial involving 90 first-time mothers compared beeswax against breast milk and a control group for preventing nipple pain and cracks during the early postpartum period. ⁽¹²⁾Assessments were conducted on days 1, 3, 5, 7, and 10 after birth. By day 10, the beeswax group experienced the lowest incidence of pain and cracks (20%), compared to the control group (53.3%). ⁽¹²⁾Researchers concluded that beeswax provides a more effective protective barrier than breast milk alone for preventing nipple trauma. ⁽¹²⁾

Antibacterial, Anti-fungal & Antimicrobial

A 2016 review highlighted crude beeswax's antimicrobial activity against a range of pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella enterica, Candida albicans, and Aspergillus niger. When combined with honey and olive oil in a 1:1:1 ratio, its efficacy is notably enhanced. Clinical trials using this mixture on fungal skin infections showed strong results: 12 of 14 patients with pityriasis versicolor, 6 of 8 with tinea corporis, and 11 of 14 with tinea cruris recovered. The blend also improved C. albicans-associated diaper dermatitis in infants, with half achieving near-complete resolution and the rest showing marked symptom reduction. ⁽¹¹⁾

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Disclaimer:

The information provided in this monograph series is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Traditional medicine systems such as TCM and Ayurveda are presented as cultural and historical frameworks, not as substitutes for evidence-based medical care.

Topical & Skincare Warning: Individual skin reactions to herbs, carrier oils, and essential oils can vary significantly. Always perform a patch test before full application and discontinue use immediately if redness, itching, burning, or swelling occurs. Do not ingest topical oils unless explicitly stated as safe for internal use. Consult a qualified healthcare provider or dermatologist before use if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or managing a skin condition. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it based on information contained here.

References:

1. Cera Alba (beeswax): Cosmetic ingredient inci [Internet]. [cited 2026 May 21]. Available from: https://www.specialchem.com/cosmetics/inci-ingredients/cera-alba

   
   

2. Ayling L. Inci explained: The Formulator’s Guide to the international nomenclature of cosmetic ingredients [Internet]. 2025 [cited 2026 May 21]. Available from: https://formulabotanica.com/inci-explained/

   
   

3. Fratini F, Cilia G, Turchi B, Felicioli A. Beeswax: A minireview of its antimicrobial activity and its application in medicine. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine. 2016 Sept;9(9):839–43. doi:10.1016/j.apjtm.2016.07.003

   
   

4. Environmental Working Group. EWG Skin Deep®: What is Beeswax [Internet]. Washington, DC: Environmental Working Group; [cited 2026 May 21]. Available from: https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredients/700643-BEESWAX/

   
   

5. Schechter J. How to work with natural cosmetic waxes [Internet]. 2021 [cited 2026 May 21]. Available from: https://formulabotanica.com/natural-cosmetic-waxes/

   
   

6. Best practices for long-term storage of Bee’s wax - agriculture notes by agriculture.institute [Internet]. 2026 [cited 2026 May 21]. Available from: https://agriculture.institute/hive-products-beekeeping-economics/best-practices-long-term-storage-bees-wax/

   
   

7. Me & Qi. (2025, March 26). Feng La (蜂蜡) - TCM herb. https://www.meandqi.com/knowledge-base/herbs/feng-la

8. Kurek-Górecka A, Górecki M, Rzepecka-Stojko A, Balwierz R, Stojko J. Bee products in dermatology and skin care. Molecules. 2020 Jan 28;25(3):556. doi:10.3390/molecules25030556

9. Kędzia B, Hołderna-Kędzia E. The use of beeswax in medicine. Pasieka. 2014;(3). Available from: https://pasieka24.pl/index.php/pl-pl/pasieka-czasopismo-dla-pszczelarzy/108-pasieka-3-2014/1319-wykorzystanie-wosku-pszczelego-w-lecznictwie

   
   

10. Park G, Moon BC, Choi G, Lim H-S. Cera flava alleviates atopic dermatitis by activating skin barrier function via immune regulation. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2021 Jul 14;22(14):7531. doi:10.3390/ijms22147531

    
    

11. Park G, Moon BC, Choi G, Lim H-S. Cera flava alleviates atopic dermatitis by activating skin barrier function via immune regulation. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2021 Jul 14;22(14):7531. doi:10.3390/ijms22147531

    
    

12. Serhatlioglu S, Gencturk N, Mutlu S. Determination of the effectiveness of beeswax in preventing nipple pain and cracks in primiparous breastfeeding mothers: A randomized controlled trial. EXPLORE. 2023 Nov;19(6):851–8. doi:10.1016/j.explore.2023.05.002