Nonionic Emulsifying Wax NF (Cetearyl Alcohol/Polysorbate 60)

Nonionic Emulsifying Wax NF – Self-Emulsifying O/W Emulsifier for Cosmetics and Pharmaceuticals

Basic Information

• INCI Name: Cetearyl Alcohol (and) Polysorbate 60

• CAS Numbers: 67762-27-0 (Cetearyl Alcohol); 9005-67-8 (Polysorbate 60)

• Trade Name: Nonionic Emulsifying Wax NF

• Regulatory Status: Conforms to the US National Formulary monograph for nonionic emulsifying waxes.

Overview
Nonionic Emulsifying Wax NF is a blend of emulsifiers and stabilizers derived from vegetable and mineral sources. It is designed to provide fast, reliable, and versatile emulsification solutions across a wide range of personal care and pharmaceutical formulations. This wax is one of the most stable emulsifiers available, offering excellent performance over a broad pH range (3–14). It is self-emulsifying and compatible with most cosmetic and pharmaceutical ingredients, making it a preferred choice for oil-in-water (O/W) systems.

Key Properties

• Self-emulsifying – simplifies formulation processes.

• Stable across pH 3–14 – suitable for acidic, neutral, and alkaline systems.

• Forms lamellar structures – enhances skin moisturization, sensory feel, and emulsion stability.

• Compatible with a wide range of ingredients – including oils, active compounds, and other emulsifiers.

• Nonionic nature – minimizes ionic interactions and compatibility issues.

Applications

• Primary O/W emulsifier: Use at concentrations of 5–10% to create stable emulsions for creams, lotions, and ointments.

• Emulsion stabilizer: Use at 1–2% to improve the stability of existing emulsions.

• Personal care: Suitable for skin care, hair care, sunscreens, and color cosmetics.

• Pharmaceuticals: Used in topical formulations such as creams and ointments for drug delivery.

• Other applications: Can be used in a variety of other emulsified systems requiring reliable performance.

Benefits

• Quick and easy emulsification – reduces processing time and energy.

• Provides excellent stability and resistance to phase separation.

• Enhances skin moisturization through lamellar gel network formation.

• Compatible with most active ingredients, preservatives, and fragrances.

• Meets NF monograph requirements, ensuring pharmaceutical-grade quality.

Recommended Use

• As primary emulsifier: 5–10% of the oil phase.

• As stabilizer: 1–2% of the total formulation.

• Incorporate into the oil phase and heat to melt, then combine with the aqueous phase under shear.

Packaging and Storage

• Packaging: 20 kg per box.

• Storage: Store in a dry place, protected from direct sunlight and heat.

• Shelf life: Typically 24 months under recommended storage conditions.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for compliance with NF monograph specifications, including acid value, saponification value, and emulsification performance.