Oils, Waxes and Derivatives: Application in Pharmaceuticals and Cosmetics

Oils, waxes and their derivatives are common ingredients in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, playing a crucial role in creating the texture, permeability and effectiveness of the product.

Vegetable Oils:

• Peanut Oil: Peanut oil is liquid in nature and is used to adjust the physical properties of the product.

• Sesame Oil: Sesame oil is known for its skin-friendly properties and is commonly used in external skin medications in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

• Castor Oil: Castor oil has antiseptic properties and is used in cosmetics and skincare products.

• Fish Oil: Fish oil is rich in vitamins A and D, and is used to treat burns and ulcers.

Animal and Vegetable Oils and Fats:

• Advantages: Gentle on mucous membranes, some types have deep penetration capabilities.

• Disadvantages: Easily greasy, hydrophobic, inhibit skin physiological activities, prone to rancidity.

Oils and Fats:

• Oils and fats are usually liquid or soft in form.

Waxes:

• Waxes can be pliable or solid.

• Advantages: Waxes are more durable than oils and fats, less prone to deterioration and rancidity.

• Applications: Adjusting the physical properties of the product, increasing flowability or hardness.

Beeswax:

• Beeswax is usually yellow or white in color, solid in form.

• White Beeswax: Has acidic properties.

Lanolin:

• Characteristics: Similar to sebum, gentle on skin, deep penetration.

• Advantages: High water and polar liquid absorption capacity.

• Application: Absorbing water to create O/W emulsions.

• Disadvantages: Viscous and sticky texture, difficult to spread thinly, often combined with petroleum jelly.

Anhydrous Lanolin:

• Application: It is a dry emulsifying agent.

• Water Absorption Capacity: Absorbs 200% water, 120-140% glycerin, 30-40% alcohol.

Hydrous Lanolin:

• Application: It is a complete emulsifying agent.

• Disadvantages: Reduced water absorption capacity, cannot be used with alcohol.

• Note: It should be prepared and used immediately to prevent phase separation and mold growth.

• Application: Creating W/O emulsions.

Conclusion:

Oils, waxes and their derivatives play a crucial role in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, bringing different properties to the product. Choosing the right type of oil, wax will help create effective and safe products for users.