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OXIDIZED MICROCRYSTALLINE CERA

CAS -
68

Safety score · 0–100

Fine

Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.

About

A petroleum-derived wax that has been oxidized to make it more polar and emulsifiable — the oxidation introduces carbonyl groups that can mildly irritate damaged skin but is generally safe at cosmetic concentrations.

Oxidized Microcrystalline Cera (CAS not formally assigned; listed as '-') is produced by exposing microcrystalline petroleum wax to controlled oxidation with air or chemical oxidizing agents. This breaks long-chain alkanes and introduces ketones, aldehydes, carboxylic acids, and esters, increasing the wax polarity and making it dispersible in emulsions. Microcrystalline waxes themselves are derived from petroleum and have been used in cosmetics for decades; the oxidized variant isCosIng listed with no hazard statements but is not among the highest-safety-score ingredients due to the oxidative modification process.

Skin benefits

  • Emulsifiable wax for cosmetic formulations
  • Film-forming and texture-controlling
  • Cost-effective petroleum-derived structurant

Known concerns

  • Mild irritation potential on broken or compromised skin from oxidation byproducts
  • Less inert than non-oxidized microcrystalline wax

References

EU

EU CosIng database

European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.

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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.