Natural Butters & Waxes

22 products

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions about choosing and using Essentially Natural ingredients.

What is the difference between butter and wax in formulation?

Butters are usually softer and richer, while waxes are firmer and mainly used to add structure. In a formula, butters often add emolliency, while waxes help thicken or harden the final product.

Can I use natural butters and waxes on their own?

Some butters can be used more directly, depending on the product. Waxes are usually better used as part of a formula rather than on their own.

How do I choose the right butter or wax for my formula?

Start with the texture and feel you want in the final product. If you want softness and richness, a butter may be the better choice, while a wax is more useful when you need firmness and structure.

Do natural butters and waxes need a preservative?

Not usually when used in an oil-only product, because they do not contain water. If the final formula includes water, preservative needs will depend on the full formulation.

Do natural butters and waxes need to be melted before use?

In many DIY formulations, yes. They are often gently melted with oils or other ingredients so they can blend evenly into the final product.

Browse our selection of butters and waxes commonly used in body care and cosmetic formulation. This collection brings together solid and semi-solid ingredients that help provide structure, thickness, and protective qualities in products such as balms, salves, body butters, lip care, and solid formulations.

Butters and waxes are valued for their ability to support skin feel, stability, and texture. Depending on the ingredient, they may contribute richness, firmness, glide, or occlusivity, making them essential components in anhydrous and emulsified products alike.

This collection includes a practical range of plant-based butters, botanical waxes, and other commonly used cosmetic waxes, including beeswax, allowing makers and formulators to easily find the ingredients they need when creating or refining their own products.