Cera Alba (Beeswax) — CAS 8012-89-3

Cera Alba is the purified, bleached or yellow wax secreted by honeybees (Apis mellifera) to construct honeycomb, composed primarily of esters of long-chain fatty acids and alcohols (notably myricyl palmitate), hydrocarbons, and free fatty acids. Its unique combination of a high melting point (62–65°C) and plastic, workable texture makes it indispensable in anhydrous formulations such as lip balms, stick products, and ointments, where it provides structure and a protective occlusive barrier on skin. Formulators prize Cera Alba for its natural origin, excellent compatibility with oils and waxes, and its ability to stabilize water-in-oil emulsions while imparting a characteristic smooth, non-greasy skin feel.