What Is Myrica Pubescens Fruit Wax?
Myrica Pubescens Fruit Wax is a plant based wax derived from the berries of Myrica pubescens, a small evergreen tree that grows in the Andean regions of South America. The wax is mainly made up of long chain fatty acid esters that give it a firm yet flexible texture. Local communities have long boiled the berries to separate this wax for use as a natural polish and water repellent. As cosmetics began looking for sustainable plant alternatives to mineral and animal waxes, formulators turned to Myrica Pubescens Fruit Wax for its clean label appeal and reliable performance.
To produce it at scale, ripe berries are collected, gently boiled in water, then skimmed as the wax rises to the surface. The raw wax is filtered and refined to remove color and odor, yielding pale flakes or pastilles ready for cosmetic blending. You will typically find this ingredient in lip balms, stick foundations, cream blush, mascara, hair pomades, barrier creams, body butters and solid deodorants where a smooth glide and stable structure are essential.
Myrica Pubescens Fruit Wax’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In a formulation Myrica Pubescens Fruit Wax serves more than one purpose, giving product developers a versatile tool.
- Film forming – Creates a thin breathable layer on skin or hair that helps lock in moisture and improve wear time of makeup
- Skin conditioning – Adds a soft cushioned feel that makes creams and balms feel richer and more comforting on application
- Viscosity controlling – Thickens oil phases and stabilizes emulsions which allows products to stay solid at room temperature yet melt nicely on contact with skin
Who Can Use Myrica Pubescens Fruit Wax
Myrica Pubescens Fruit Wax is generally well tolerated by all skin types, including dry, normal, combination and oily skin. Its lightweight film helps seal in moisture without leaving a heavy greasy feel, so even those prone to shine can usually enjoy it. Highly acne-prone users who react to any occlusive ingredient may want to monitor how their skin responds, but the wax itself has a low tendency to clog pores.
The ingredient is entirely plant derived, which makes it suitable for vegans and vegetarians looking to avoid animal based waxes like beeswax or lanolin. It also fits well with clean beauty preferences since it is minimally processed and sourced from renewable plant material.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women can typically use products containing Myrica Pubescens Fruit Wax because it stays on the surface of the skin and is not known to penetrate deeply or act hormonally. That said, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should discuss new personal care products with their healthcare provider to be safe.
The wax does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it is not considered photosensitizing. It is also fragrance free and contains no known common irritants, making it a gentle choice for those with reactive skin. As always, overall formulation matters, so how your skin behaves will depend on the complete product, not just this single ingredient.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to the topical application of Myrica Pubescens Fruit Wax can vary from person to person. The points below outline potential issues, but most users will not experience any problems when the ingredient is used correctly in a well formulated product.
- Allergic contact dermatitis – a very small number of individuals may develop redness, itching or rash if they are specifically allergic to the wax or trace botanical compounds
- Mild pore congestion – in rare cases, highly acne-prone skin may notice tiny bumps or clogged pores when using rich or heavy formulas with high wax content
- Eye irritation – if a product like mascara or balm containing the wax accidentally gets into the eyes it can cause temporary stinging or watering
- Sensitivity to other ingredients – the occlusive film can intensify the effect of active ingredients layered underneath, which may heighten irritation from those actives for some users
If you experience any persistent burning, swelling or rash after using a product with Myrica Pubescens Fruit Wax, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
This wax creates a light breathable layer that mostly stays on the surface and contains fewer free fatty acids than heavier animal or mineral waxes. As a result it has a low tendency to block pores which is why it earns a score of just 1.
Products containing reasonable amounts of Myrica Pubescens Fruit Wax are usually suitable for acne-prone skin, as long as the rest of the formula is not packed with other rich occlusives.
Concentration and product type matter: solid sticks or balms that rely on high wax loads can still feel heavy and might trigger congestion in very reactive skin.
Summary
Myrica Pubescens Fruit Wax works as a film former skin conditioner and viscosity controller. Its long chain esters build a flexible matrix that thickens oils stabilises emulsions and leaves a smooth protective finish.
While not yet as widespread as carnauba or candelilla it is growing in popularity among vegan and clean beauty brands that want a reliable plant based wax.
The ingredient has an excellent safety profile with only occasional reports of irritation or minor pore clogging. As with any new cosmetic it is wise to patch test a product containing this wax before full use especially if your skin is sensitive or acne prone.