Hair Wax Formulation Analysis: Matte Finish, Medium Hold, Restylable

Asked by: sootthisak.ch On: October 30, 2016 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

Could you please analyze the following hair wax formulation designed for a matte finish, medium hold, and restylable texture? Please explain the function of each ingredient:

  • Microcrystalline Wax
  • Ozokerite Wax
  • Tribehenin
  • Vaseline Petroleum Jelly
  • Mineral Oil
  • Phenyl Trimethicone (e.g., Silicone Shine Max15™)
  • Oleyl Alcohol
  • Lanolin
  • Lanolin Alcohol
  • Stearic acid
  • Kaolin (China Clay)
  • MatteSilica™
  • Peppermint Oil
  • Parfum
  • Linalool
  • d-limonene
  • Illicum Verum Fruit Oil
  • Propyl Paraben

Answer

Hair Wax Formulation Analysis

This hair wax formula is designed to provide a matte finish, medium hold, and restylability, primarily through a blend of waxes, oils, and matte powders.

Key Ingredients and Their Functions:

  • Waxes (Microcrystalline Wax, Ozokerite Wax, Tribehenin): These form the backbone of the product's structure and hold.
    • Microcrystalline Wax and Ozokerite Wax provide structure and varying degrees of hardness, contributing to the medium hold.
    • Tribehenin is a soft wax that adds flexibility and helps make the wax pliable and restylable throughout the day. The combination of these waxes allows for hold without being overly stiff.
  • Oils and Emollients (Vaseline Petroleum Jelly, Mineral Oil, Phenyl Trimethicone, Oleyl Alcohol, Lanolin, Lanolin Alcohol): These ingredients soften the wax matrix, improve spreadability, and provide conditioning to the hair.
    • Vaseline Petroleum Jelly and Mineral Oil are common bases that add slip and reduce drag during application.
    • Phenyl Trimethicone (like Silicone Shine Max15™) is a silicone that can enhance texture and provide a smooth feel, although its "shine" property might be counteracted by the matte agents in this specific formula.
    • Oleyl Alcohol, Lanolin, and Lanolin Alcohol are emollients that contribute to the wax's texture and provide moisturizing benefits to the hair.
  • Matte Agents (Kaolin, MatteSilica™): These powders are crucial for achieving the desired matte finish.
    • Kaolin (China Clay) is a natural clay that absorbs oil and helps reduce shine.
    • MatteSilica™ is a specially processed silica powder with a porous surface designed for excellent oil absorption, further contributing to the matte look and providing a smooth, non-greasy feel.
  • Fatty Acid (Stearic acid): This fatty acid can act as a thickener and stabilizer in the formula, helping to maintain its structure and consistency.
  • Fragrance and Flavor Components (Peppermint Oil, Parfum, Linalool, d-limonene, Illicum Verum Fruit Oil): These provide the scent of the hair wax. Peppermint Oil can also offer a cooling sensation.
  • Preservative (Propyl Paraben): This ingredient is included to prevent microbial growth and ensure the product's safety and shelf life.

The combination of harder and softer waxes provides the medium, restylable hold, while the inclusion of Kaolin and MatteSilica™ effectively absorbs oils to deliver a matte finish. The various oils and emollients ensure the wax is easy to apply and feels good on the hair.