Wondering what is emulsifying wax and if it’s natural? Read this article to learn more about emulsifying wax and is emulsifying wax bad for hair.
The ingredients in our hair or skin products can get a little confusing. Many elements do not make sense, seem harmful, or are not exactly what you want to use, especially if you are trying to go natural. Therefore, it is always best to avoid potential damage through the ingredient list. Moreover, it helps us stay away from products that have a lot of artificial chemicals affecting that have a bad influence on hair.
In the list of ingredients, one of the most commonly found and recurring ingredients is emulsifying wax. Here we will talk about what is emulsifying wax and why it is added to your hair products.
What Is Emulsifying Wax?
Emulsifying wax is petroleum-derived wax used in skin lotions or hair conditioners to join the oil and water, preventing them from getting separated. This wax is made by treating it with a detergent such as polysorbates which helps to give a nice thick texture making it easy for application and keeping the product together for more extended periods. Previously, the only emulsifying wax available was petroleum-based. However, now many vegetable-based emulsifying waxes are available. These vegetable oil-based emulsifying wax are composed of Cetearyl Alcohol and Cetearyl Glucoside derived from natural origins like wheat straw.
Is Emulsifying Wax Bad For Hair?
Emulsifying wax is a common ingredient in hair conditioners, and most of them specify which kind of wax is used in terms of its composition. Irrespective of what it is made of, only a tiny percentage of emulsifying wax is used in most products to adhere to water and oil. Such quantities are not harmful to the hair and act as an excellent detangler.
Moreover, emulsifying wax is a necessary ingredient to keep the product stable while ensuring it does not harm the quality of your hair. This is generally true, but sometimes, any component can irritate the scalp depending on hair type. Therefore, it is crucial to find something that works for you and your hair type.
DIY Natural Hair Conditioner Recipe
1. Leave-In Conditioner Using Beeswax
Ingredients:
- Beeswax pellets – 4 tablespoons
- Shea butter – 4 tablespoons
- Olive oil – 4 tablespoons
- Vitamin E capsules
Recipe:
In a double boiler, add beeswax pellets and shea butter. Then, let it slowly melt. If you do not have a double boiler, you can add water to a pan and let it boil. Next, place a container over it, put the beeswax and shea butter, and let it melt. Once it has melted, transfer it into a container. Add olive oil to this and 1-2 Vitamin E capsules. First, mix this liquid using a spatula. Then, using a hand blender lightly, get a pudding-like consistency. Finally, store it in a steel or tin container. Please keep it in a cold place or in the refrigerator to preserve it for more extended periods. Beeswax is a natural alternative to emulsifying wax and helps combine the ingredients.
How To Apply
Take a pea-sized amount and apply it on slightly wet hair after washing. This will help keep the locks hydrated and moisturized, giving a silky smooth look.
2. One Time Use Hair Conditioner For Nourishment
Instead of making a conditioner for storing and regular use, you can make a one-time conditioner. It helps provide instant nourishment and helps get healthy hair. Make it at the time of use according to the length of your hair, and apply it before shampoo.
Recipe 1:
Ingredients:
- Honey – 2 tablespoons
- Olive oil – 4 tablespoons
- Shower cap
Recipe:
Lightly heat olive oil and then add honey to it. Then, apply it to the hair through the length of the hair in sections. Gently tie the hair up and cover it up with a shower cap. Leave it for 30 minutes, and then wash the hair with a mild shampoo. This will help soften the hair and moisturize them too.
Recipe 2:
Ingredients:
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Honey – 1 tablespoon
- Banana – 1
Recipe:
Take a ripe banana, and add the other ingredients. Next, mash it well and thoroughly apply it to the hair. Wash with a mild shampoo after 15 minutes. Do not leave it for more extended periods as it can harden, making it difficult to remove.
Takeaway
It’s often hard to make sense of all the ingredients present in self-care products and choose the most suitable one. Emulsifying wax is one such ingredient that is present in almost all self-care products, so oil and water are not separated in it. Generally, emulsifying wax is safe in small quantities. However, different hair types react differently; therefore, being informed and choosing the right one is crucial.
Do not hesitate to ask questions and share your experience with us in the comments below!
