Pelargonium Graveolens Wax

Also known as: Geranium Wax / Floral Wax

INCI: Pelargonium Graveolens Wax | Function: Emollient, Film Former, Fragrance | Type: Floral Wax / Plant Wax

What Is Pelargonium Graveolens Wax?

Pelargonium Graveolens Wax (geranium floral wax) is the solid waxy residue obtained after solvent extraction of geranium concrete. It contains long-chain fatty acids, esters, and residual aromatic compounds. In cosmetics, it acts as a natural emollient, thickener, and protective film former with a subtle rose fragrance.

Key Skin Benefits

+ Emollient — softens and smooths skin surface
+ Occlusive — forms protective barrier to reduce TEWL
+ Natural thickener — adds body to balms and butters
+ Subtle fragrance — carries light rose-geranium scent

Pros

+ 100% natural plant-derived wax — suitable for natural formulations
+ Multifunctional — emollient + thickener + fragrance in one
+ Biodegradable and renewable
+ Good alternative to synthetic waxes and petrolatum

Cons

− Limited availability — niche ingredient
− Fragrance may be too subtle for some applications
− Higher cost compared to synthetic wax alternatives
− Batch variability in fragrance intensity

Specifications

Property	Value
Usage Areas	Face, Body, Hair
Product Type	Leave-On, Rinse-Off
Source	Plant
Natural Level	Natural

Safety Ratings

Metric	Rating
Skin Sensitivity	1/5
Comedogenic Rating	0-1/5
EWG Score	1/10

Regional Regulatory Limits

Region	Leave-on %	Rinse-off %	Status
EU (CosIng)	No limit	No limit	Allowed
US (CIR/FDA)	No limit	No limit	Allowed
Japan (MHLW)	No limit	No limit	Allowed
ASEAN	No limit	No limit	Allowed
China (NMPA)	No limit	No limit	Allowed

Typical Usage % by Product Type

Product Type	Typical %
Lip balm	2 - 10%
Body butter	1 - 5%
Solid perfume	3 - 15%

References

CosIng (2025) — Pelargonium Graveolens Wax. https://ec.europa.eu/growth/tools-databases/cosing/
SpecialChem — Floral waxes in cosmetic formulation. https://cosmetics.specialchem.com/
EWG Skin Deep — Plant wax ingredients. https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/

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