What Is Eclipta Prostrata Cera?
Eclipta Prostrata Cera is a plant-derived wax taken from the aerial parts of Eclipta prostrata L., a small flowering herb in the daisy family. The wax is rich in long-chain fatty acids, natural esters and a touch of plant sterols, giving it a solid yet meltable feel that glides on skin. In traditional beauty rituals across parts of Asia the fresh plant has long been used to smooth hair and calm the scalp; modern formulators noticed those same softening properties and began isolating its wax for creams and balms in the early 2000s. To obtain the ingredient harvested leaves and stems are dried, infused in a food-grade solvent, then the waxy fraction is separated, filtered and gently refined to remove odor or color. The finished material is a pale greenish-yellow solid that melts around body temperature. You will mainly spot it in moisturizers, night creams, anti-aging serums, lipstick bases, solid perfumes, hair pomades and soothing masks where a natural plant wax is preferred over synthetic alternatives.
Eclipta Prostrata Cera’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators turn to this wax for one key purpose: skin conditioning. By forming a light, breathable film on the surface it helps trap water within the upper layers of the skin, leaving it feeling supple and smooth. The waxy texture also lends a plush glide to creams or sticks, improving spreadability and giving products a more luxurious touch while supporting the skin’s own barrier.
Who Can Use Eclipta Prostrata Cera
Eclipta Prostrata Cera is generally suitable for all skin types. Dry, normal and mature skin tend to benefit the most from its softening, water-trapping film, while sensitive skin usually tolerates it well thanks to its gentle, fragrance-free profile. Very oily or congestion-prone complexions can still use it, though the waxy texture may feel heavy in humid climates or when layered with other rich products.
Because the wax is completely plant derived, it is appropriate for vegans and vegetarians and is often chosen by brands looking for a botanical alternative to beeswax or animal fats.
No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women. The ingredient is used topically, is not known to penetrate deeply or reach the bloodstream and lacks hormone-like activity. Still, this is not medical advice; anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run new skincare products past a qualified healthcare provider to be safe.
Eclipta Prostrata Cera does not cause photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It can be worn day or night without changing your normal sun protection habits.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical ingredients vary from person to person. The points below outline possible but uncommon reactions to Eclipta Prostrata Cera when applied to the skin. When formulated and used as intended most people will not notice any problems.
- Allergic contact dermatitis, presenting as redness, itching or mild swelling
- Clogged pores or minor breakouts in individuals who are very acne prone
- Transient irritation or stinging if applied to broken or highly sensitized skin
- Watery eyes or slight eye irritation if the wax migrates too close to the lash line
If any adverse reaction occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 2/5. Eclipta Prostrata Cera is a solid plant wax rich in long-chain fatty acids that sit on the surface of skin. While it can create a comforting occlusive film, its molecules are too large to sink deeply into pores, so it is less likely to block them than heavier butters or mineral oils. Still, the waxy texture and partial occlusion mean it could trap debris in very oily or congestion-prone skin, especially in hot humid weather.
Suitable for acne-prone users in low-to-moderate amounts, though extremely breakout-prone individuals might prefer lighter emollients.
The finished product formula matters: pairing this wax with high levels of silicones or other rich oils can push the overall comedogenic potential higher, while lightweight emulsifiers and humectants can offset it.
Summary
Eclipta Prostrata Cera acts mainly as a skin-conditioning agent that softens, smooths and helps seal in water by forming a thin breathable film. Its blend of natural fatty acids and esters gives creams, balms and sticks a pleasing glide and subtle structure so textures feel plush without relying on synthetic waxes.
Although not a household name, it is gaining quiet popularity among natural and vegan brands looking to swap out beeswax or petrolatum. You will most often see it tucked into moisturizers, lip products and solid perfumes rather than high-profile anti-aging serums.
Current safety data and decades of traditional plant use suggest the wax is very low in irritancy with no known systemic risks. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is smart to patch test a product before full-face use to make sure your skin agrees with it.