Buy Now
Ingredient Glossary · Cosmetic Wax & Emollient

Paraffin Wax 60fh

INCI: Paraffin · CAS 8002-74-2 · MP 58–60°C · Safēd Moom (سفید موم)

Safēd Moom (سفید موم) — Pakistan's essential barrier wax. The structural backbone of lip balms, hand salves, and spa therapy since the 1850s. Fully refined, halal-certified, EU-permitted petroleum wax delivering unmatched occlusive protection for dry, cracked skin in Pakistan's extreme seasonal climate. From Lahore's dry winters to Karachi's humid summers.

CAS
8002-74-2
Identifier
58–60°C
MP
Melting Point
Halal
✓
EU Permitted
Scroll
Quick Reference

At a Glance

INCI / CAS / EINECS
INCI: Paraffin · CAS 8002-74-2 · EINECS 232-315-6 · Grade: 60fh (MP 58–60°C)
Chemical Class / Function
Petroleum wax · C20–C40 saturated hydrocarbons · Occlusive emollient · Film-former · Viscosity controller
Physical Form
White to off-white flakes or slabs at 25°C · Odourless (cosmetic grade) · APHA colour ≤10 · Density 0.88–0.92 g/cm³
Melting Point / Flash Point
MP 58–60°C (ASTM D 87) · Flash point >200°C · Kinematic viscosity 3.5–5.0 mm²/s at 99°C
Solubility / pH
Insoluble in water · Soluble in oils, hydrocarbons, chloroform, ether · pH not applicable (anhydrous)
EU Cosmetics Reg. Status
✓ Permitted — not listed in Annex II or III · Full refining history + EP/PAH compliance documentation required for EU export
FDA / DRAP Status
FDA: GRAS indirect food additive; cosmetic grade freely permitted · DRAP Pakistan: no specific restriction in finished cosmetics
Halal Status
✓ Halal — 100% petrochemical. No animal inputs, no ethanol, no fermentation at any stage. Confirmed by Pakistan Halal Authority, JAKIM, IFANCA, SANHA
Primary Function
Occlusive emollient — forms a hydrophobic physical film on skin to prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Highest simple occlusion of any cosmetic ingredient class
Recommended Use Level
5–20% lip balm · 10–25% hand/foot salve · 15–30% body butter stick · 80–100% spa therapy · 1–5% body lotion
EU Reg. / PAH Requirement
✓ Freely usable when full refining history documented. EP Paraffinum Solidum standard required. PAH (benzo[a]pyrene) <1 ppm for EU export
Skin Type Suitability
Excellent for dry, cracked, mature skin · Use cautiously on oily/acne-prone facial skin · Ideal for lips, hands, feet, body · Fitzpatrick III–VI safe
Urdu / Pakistan Name
Safēd Moom (سفید موم) — White Wax · Moom ya Sham'a (موم یا شمع) · Marhoom (مرہم) base — Unani ointment tradition
Shelf Life (sealed)
3–5 years sealed below 35°C · Essentially indefinite if cool and dry · No oxidation, no hydrolysis, no rancidity risk
Introduction

Safēd Moom — The Barrier Wax

Paraffin Wax 60fh is one of the most commercially universal and technically versatile raw materials in the global cosmetic industry — an unassuming white wax that forms the structural backbone of products ranging from everyday lip balms and hand creams to premium spa therapy services. Its name derives from the Latin "parum affinis" — of slight affinity — referencing its low chemical reactivity. First isolated scientifically by Karl von Reichenbach in 1830 and commercially refined for cosmetic use by the late nineteenth century, it is today indispensable in lip care, body care, barrier protection, and wellness spa services. The combination of physical stability, chemical inertness, complete water resistance, and an exceptional safety record makes it one of the safest and most reliable cosmetic ingredients available. Unlike natural waxes such as beeswax or carnauba, paraffin wax is never subject to rancidity, microbial contamination, or batch-to-batch compositional variation — properties uniquely valuable in Pakistan's warm, humid climate and supply chain environment.

In Pakistani formulation practice, Paraffin Wax 60fh serves as the structural backbone of both low-cost and mid-premium barrier products. Pakistan's dry winters in Lahore, Islamabad, and Peshawar generate significant consumer demand for healing barrier products: cracked heel salves, dry hand creams for industrial and agricultural workers, protective lip balms for cold, dry conditions. Pakistan's warm summers in Karachi and Lahore simultaneously create demand for stable, heat-resistant product formats — sticks and body butters that must maintain structural integrity at 40°C+ ambient temperatures. The 60°C melting point grade meets both requirements elegantly: it provides adequate structure in summer conditions while delivering the smooth, waxy protective feel consumers associate with effective barrier care. Its connection to the Unani cosmetic tradition — where Moom (موم) and Marhoom (مرہم) described wax-based protective ointments since the time of Ibn Sina — gives Pakistani formulators an authentic cultural narrative alongside the clinical performance.

Bio Shop™ Pakistan — Sourcing Note

Bio Shop™ Pakistan stocks cosmetic-grade Paraffin Wax 60fh sourced from internationally certified manufacturers — white to off-white flakes, APHA colour ≤10, odourless, fully EP/PAH compliant. Available in various quantities from 250g laboratory packs to 5kg professional bulk. Certificate of Analysis (CoA) with melting point, APHA colour, oil content, and PAH documentation available on request. For EU-export products: full refining history documentation provided with batch. Halal certificate from accepted certification bodies available. Visit bioshop.pk/products/almond-solution-1 for current stock and pricing.

Molecular Identity

Chemical Identification

INCI NameParaffin
IUPAC DescriptionComplex mixture of saturated hydrocarbons; predominantly n-alkanes (CₙH₂ₙ₊₂, n = 20–40)
CAS Number8002-74-2
EINECS / EC Number232-315-6
Molecular FormulaCₙH₍₂ₙ₊₂₎ — predominantly C20–C40 saturated alkanes · MW 280–560 g/mol (mixture average)
Grade Designation60fh — melting point ~58–60°C · cosmetic / pharmaceutical refinement standard
Structural ClassPetroleum wax · predominantly n-alkane (straight-chain) with minor iso-alkane (branched) components · zero degree of unsaturation
Functional GroupsNone — fully saturated aliphatic hydrocarbons. No OH, COOH, NH₂, ester, ether, or alkene groups. Chemically inert.
Primary Carbon FractionC25–C35 n-alkane (dominant in 60°C grade) · Examples: octacosane C28H58 (MP ~61°C) · tritriacontane C33H68
Production RouteCrude petroleum → atmospheric/vacuum distillation → solvent dewaxing (MEK/toluene) → de-oiling → hydrotreatment (H₂, metal catalyst) → bleaching/deodorisation → cosmetic-grade white wax
Key Industrial ProducersSinopec (China) · CNOOC (China) · Sasol Wax (Germany/South Africa) · Paramelt (Netherlands) · Clariant (Switzerland)
CosIng FunctionSkin conditioning (occlusive) · Viscosity controlling
Urdu / Pakistan NameSafēd Moom (سفید موم) — White Wax · Marhoom (مرہم) base · Unani ointment excipient tradition (Ibn Sina, Al-Qanun)
Grade & Purity Profiles

Four Commercial Grades

Paraffin wax is commercially available in several quality tiers. The critical distinction is cosmetic/pharmaceutical grade (PAH-compliant, EP/USP standard) versus industrial or candle grade (not suitable for skin-contact use). Bio Shop™ Pakistan stocks cosmetic-grade only — white flakes, APHA ≤10, oil content <0.5%, full documentation available. Never substitute industrial or candle-grade paraffin into cosmetic formulations: PAH contamination risk is unacceptable.

Professional Standard · Bio Shop™ Grade
Cosmetic / Pharma Grade
EP/USP compliant · APHA ≤10 · PAH <1 ppm · White odourless flakes
PAH Compliance
EP
APHA ≤10 · Oil content <0.5% · Benzo[a]pyrene <1 ppm
"The only grade appropriate for lip balms, body butters, hand creams, and spa therapy. White to near-white solid; completely odourless when cold; faint clean wax note when molten. Bio Shop™ Pakistan stocks this grade exclusively. CoA and PAH documentation available per batch. Suitable for both domestic and EU export products."
Food Grade · FCC Specification
Food / Indirect Contact Grade
FCC compliant · Additional microbiological limits · Food packaging contact
Purity Standard
FCC
Required for indirect food packaging and food contact applications
"Meeting FCC (Food Chemicals Codex) purity standards, this grade adds stricter microbiological and heavy metal limits on top of cosmetic-grade specifications. Required when paraffin wax is used in food packaging, wax coatings, or indirect food contact materials — not required for standard cosmetic products. Slightly higher cost; specialised supplier sourcing."
High-Purity · USP Pharmaceutical
Pharmaceutical Grade
USP Paraffin monograph · Strictest heavy metal & residual solvent limits · Medical applications
Standard
USP
For compounding pharmacies, dermatological ointment bases
"Meeting USP Paraffin monograph — the specification used in Simple Ointment BP and White Ointment USP bases. Pakistani compounding pharmacies producing dermatological barrier ointments should use this standard where available. Functional and olfactory properties are identical to cosmetic grade; the additional value is in the official pharmacopoeial documentation trail required for medical product registration under DRAP."
⚠ Not for Skin Contact Use
Industrial / Candle Grade
Non-hydrotreated · Elevated PAH content · Yellow tint · Petroleum odour · Candle & coating use only
PAH Status
Non-EP
PAH levels potentially 10–100× above cosmetic limits
"NEVER use in skin-contact cosmetics. Industrial-grade paraffin (candle wax, coating wax) may not undergo full hydrotreatment, leaving residual PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) including potentially carcinogenic benzo[a]pyrene at 10–100× the EU cosmetic limit. Visual test: yellow or cream tint (cosmetic = white), petroleum odour when melted (cosmetic = odourless). Always request CoA with PAH test from any Pakistani supplier."
Usage Science

Concentration by Product Type

Paraffin Wax 60fh has no established upper safety limit for external cosmetic use — the correct use level is determined entirely by the desired product texture, hardness, and performance, not safety constraints. Lower concentrations provide mild occlusion and texture enhancement; higher concentrations build the structural backbone of anhydrous solid products. For Pakistan's climate, stick formats (lip balm, body butter) may require slightly higher concentrations (2–5% above baseline) to maintain structural integrity at 40°C+ summer ambient temperatures.

1–3% in FormulaTexture Lift
Slight texture thickening; minimal occlusion; adds body to liquid lotions and cream formulas. Suitable for body lotions and light cream sticks where minimal structural contribution is needed
5–10% in FormulaFoundation Level
Visible waxy texture; measurable TEWL reduction begins; slight gloss; protective barrier forms. Lip balm (pot) foundation; light barrier salves; heel cream bases; adds effective occlusion to oil-phase products
10–20% in FormulaOptimal Lip Balm Range
Clear waxy film; strong TEWL reduction; visible protective layer; stick formulas solidify reliably. Optimal range for lip balm sticks, hand creams, healing salves, and ointment bases. Pakistan climate: produces sticks stable at 38°C
20–30% in FormulaBody Butter Stick Range
Solid stick formulation; high-gloss finish; strong occlusion. Body butter sticks, deodorant sticks, protective sports products. For Pakistan summer stability: 25–30% ensures stick maintains shape at Lahore 40°C+ ambient. Add Candelilla Wax 3–5% for additional heat resistance
40–70% in FormulaVery Firm — Specialist Use
Very firm structure; wax dominates texture; significant drag on application. Hard barrier sticks; very firm ointment bases; older formulation approaches. Modern cosmetic products rarely exceed 30% for pleasant application feel. Drag at higher levels reduces consumer acceptability
80–100% in FormulaSpa Therapy — Pure Wax
Pure wax product for professional spa application. Melted at 65–70°C; clients dip hands or feet 3–5 times; wax coating trapped under wrapping for 15–20 minutes delivers intense TEWL-reducing therapy with heat-enhanced circulation benefit. Classic Pakistani salon service
Mechanism of Action

Functional Performance Profile

Mechanism 1 · Skin Surface
Passive Barrier Formation
Paraffin wax acts on the skin through passive physical occlusion — the most fundamental mechanism in barrier cosmetics. When a paraffin-containing product is applied to the skin and the wax solidifies (typically within 1–2 minutes as the formulation cools to skin surface temperature), the n-alkane chains align in a semi-crystalline lamellar arrangement directly analogous to the lipid bilayer structure of the stratum corneum. This lamellar film is completely non-polar, non-porous at practical application weights, and physically impermeable to outward-diffusing water vapour. Unlike humectants (which attract water) or ceramides (which restore lipid bilayer chemistry), paraffin wax provides purely mechanical protection — no biochemical interaction, no receptor binding, no enzymatic pathway. This simplicity is its greatest asset in Pakistan's sensitive skin and halal cosmetics market: a completely inert, non-reactive protective layer that can be recommended for almost any consumer without concern for compatibility or allergy.
Mechanism 2 · TEWL Control
Transepidermal Water Loss Reduction
TEWL (Transepidermal Water Loss) — the rate at which water vapour evaporates through the skin — is the primary measurable clinical endpoint for occlusive ingredients. Studies using Tewameter or Vapometer instruments consistently demonstrate that petrolatum and paraffin wax provide the highest TEWL reduction of any cosmetic occlusive class, exceeding natural oils, silicones, and barrier creams at comparable film weights. In Pakistan's clinical context, elevated TEWL is the physiological driver of cracked heels, chapped lips, dry hands, and winter xerosis — the most prevalent skin conditions in the Lahore-Peshawar belt (October–February; ambient humidity 20–40% RH). A Paraffin Wax 60fh-based barrier product applied once daily at 15–25% in a hand salve provides 2–4 hours of measurable TEWL reduction per application, restoring the skin's moisture retention capacity progressively over 2–3 weeks of regular use. For Pakistani skin types Fitzpatrick III–VI, which often simultaneously experience dryness and hyperpigmentation, paraffin wax addresses the barrier dysfunction directly while leaving the brightening active selection to complementary ingredients.
Mechanism 3 · Crystal Structure
Film Formation & Texture Engineering
The film-forming behaviour of paraffin wax is temperature-dependent and governed by crystallisation kinetics. When a paraffin-containing formulation is poured at 62–65°C and cooled, the wax undergoes a sol-gel transition from disordered liquid to semi-crystalline lamellar solid. The rate of cooling, the oil-phase composition, and the ratio of paraffin to other waxes all determine the final crystal size and product texture: faster cooling (pouring into cold moulds, refrigeration) gives finer crystals, better gloss, and smoother application feel; slower ambient cooling gives larger crystals with a more matte, waxy character. In Lahore's summer (ambient 40–45°C), ambient cooling of lip balm sticks may take 2–4 hours; a brief 20-minute refrigerator step significantly accelerates this without affecting quality. The crystal structure of the final wax product also determines heat resistance: blending Carnauba Wax (0.5–2%) or Candelilla Wax (3–5%) into paraffin-based sticks creates a denser, higher-melting crystal network that resists deformation at Pakistan's summer storage temperatures.
Mechanism 4 · Thermal Effect
Heat Reservoir & Spa Therapy
In spa paraffin therapy — a clinical application practised for over a century and offered in Pakistani salons from Lahore to Karachi — the thermal properties of paraffin wax create a secondary healing mechanism beyond simple occlusion. Molten paraffin wax (maintained at 54–58°C for therapy) applied in 3–5 dip layers around the hand or foot stores a substantial quantity of heat energy due to its high specific heat capacity and the latent heat of crystallisation. As this heat is released into the skin over the 15–20 minute therapy period, it increases local skin temperature by 4–8°C, enhancing microvascular blood flow, relaxing joint and tendon soft tissue, and creating a profoundly effective vasodilation response that delivers therapeutic benefits validated in rheumatoid arthritis management (Ayling and Marks, Physiotherapy, 2000). Simultaneously, the wax coating provides complete occlusion of the wrapped tissue, trapping the skin's own moisture under elevated temperature conditions — hydrating the stratum corneum from within at accelerated rates. Pakistani salon operators offering this service with Bio Shop™ cosmetic-grade wax can price at PKR 500–1,500 per service with a raw material cost of PKR 40–60 per session, delivering excellent margin.
Occlusive TEWL Barrier Film Former Texture Builder Anhydrous Base Self-Preserving Heat Stable Halal ✓ Emollient pH-Independent Crystal Lattice Skin Protectant
Formulation Accords

Three Complete Formulas

Three production-ready formulas from the Bio Shop™ Pakistan reference document — exact weights, exact percentages. All formulas are anhydrous and self-preserving (no water, no preservative required). Formula 1 is a rose-tinted lip balm with Pakistani cultural identity. Formula 2 is an intensive hand and foot barrier salve for Pakistan's working population. Formula 3 is a scented salon spa paraffin kit (presented at 100g; scale to 500g for professional salon service).

Gulab Jaan  ·  گلاب جان
Rose Darling Tinted Lip Balm · Anhydrous stick/tin · 100g batch · 10 × 10g units · Urban women 18–35 / Eid gifting / bridal boxes
Paraffin Wax 60fh (cosmetic grade)10.0g  10.0%
Beeswax Pastilles (cosmetic grade)12.0g  12.0%
Castor Oil (Ricinus communis)35.0g  35.0%
Shea Butter (Butyrospermum parkii)15.0g  15.0%
Sweet Almond Oil (Prunus amygdalus)15.0g  15.0%
Candelilla Wax (Euphorbia cerifera)4.0g  4.0%
Vitamin E Oil (Tocopherol)0.5g  0.5%
Rose Essential Oil (Rosa damascena)1.0g  1.0%
Rose Red Oil-Soluble Liquid Colour0.5g  0.5%
Peppermint Essential Oil (Mentha piperita) — bioshop.pk/products/peppermint-essential-oil0.5g  0.5%
DPG (Dipropylene Glycol) — fragrance carrier, pourability aid6.5g  6.5%
Manufacturing Method
1. Melt Paraffin, Beeswax, Candelilla Wax in SS beaker over water bath at 75°C until clear. 2. Add Shea Butter; stir until melted. 3. Add Castor Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, DPG; stir. 4. Cool stirring to 63°C; add Vitamin E Oil. 5. At 60–62°C add Rose EO, Peppermint EO, and Rose colour; stir thoroughly. 6. Pour into pre-warmed lip balm tubes or tins. Cool at room temp 2h or refrigerate 20 min. 7. Mature 24h before quality check. pH: not applicable (anhydrous) · Self-preserving. INCI: Paraffin, Cera Alba, Ricinus Communis Seed Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil, Euphorbia Cerifera Cera, Tocopherol, Rosa Damascena Flower Oil, Mentha Piperita Oil, Dipropylene Glycol, CI 26100. Shelf life: 18–24 months · Target price: PKR 250–350 per 10g unit.
Mahafiz Salve  ·  محافظ مرہم
Intensive Hand & Foot Barrier Salve · Anhydrous HDPE jar · 100g batch · Industrial workers / farmers / winter skin / unisex
Paraffin Wax 60fh (cosmetic grade)15.0g  15.0%
Pure Petroleum Jelly (Petrolatum)25.0g  25.0%
White Mineral Oil (Paraffinum Liquidum)30.0g  30.0%
Shea Butter10.0g  10.0%
Zinc Oxide (micronised)5.0g  5.0%
Castor Oil12.0g  12.0%
Allantoin (pre-dispersed in mineral oil)0.5g  0.5%
Vitamin E Oil (Tocopherol)0.5g  0.5%
Tea Tree Essential Oil — bioshop.pk/products/tea-tree-essential-oil0.5g  0.5%
Lavender Essential Oil — bioshop.pk/products/lavender-essential-oil0.5g  0.5%
Black Seed (Kalonji) Oil — traditional healing, thymoquinone1.0g  1.0%
Manufacturing Method
⚠ Source document formula correction: Source listed Castor Oil at 12.5g giving a total of 100.5g. Corrected to 12.0g for an exact 100g total. 1. Melt Paraffin Wax in SS beaker at 70°C until clear. 2. Add Petrolatum and Mineral Oil; stir at 65°C. 3. Add Shea Butter; melt and combine. 4. Disperse Zinc Oxide into Castor Oil by high-speed mixing; add to wax melt at 65°C. 5. Cool stirring to below 50°C. 6. Add Allantoin (pre-dispersed), Vitamin E, Tea Tree EO, Lavender EO, Kalonji Oil. Stir. 7. Pour into HDPE or glass jars at 45–50°C. Cap when solidified. Shelf life: 24 months. Target price: PKR 150–200 per 100g jar.
Moom-e-Sham'a Spa Kit  ·  موم شمع
Scented Salon Spa Therapy Wax · 100g batch (scale to 500g for professional salon service) · Salons / home spa / beauty schools
Paraffin Wax 60fh (cosmetic grade)90.0g  90.0%
White Mineral Oil — softens wax, improves skin feel on removal5.0g  5.0%
Sweet Almond Oil — emollient conditioning during therapy2.0g  2.0%
Vitamin E Oil — skin conditioning; antioxidant1.0g  1.0%
Lavender Essential Oil (aromatherapy; calming) — bioshop.pk/products/lavender-essential-oil1.0g  1.0%
Rose Petal Powder (fine cosmetic grade) — cultural identity; soft botanical exfoliant1.0g  1.0%
Salon Service Method
Melt wax at 65–70°C. Add Mineral Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Vitamin E; stir. Remove heat; add Lavender EO at 60°C. Add Rose Petal Powder; stir to distribute. Pour into warmer reservoir or moulds. ALWAYS verify service temperature (54–58°C) with digital thermometer before every client application — test on inner wrist first. Service: client dips hands/feet 4–5 times; wrap in plastic film + insulating glove/bootie; leave 15–20 min; peel off wax. Scale to 500g for professional salon service. Pakistani market: standard premium salon service PKR 500–1,500 per session; raw material cost PKR 40–60. Excellent margin.
Synergies

Classic Pairings

Paraffin Wax 60fh is chemically compatible with essentially all cosmetic ingredients — its complete chemical inertness creates no direct incompatibilities. The pairings below represent the most commercially successful and technically validated combinations for Pakistani formulation.

Lip Balm Structure System
Beeswax Pastilles · Paraffin 10% + Beeswax 10–15% → Classic lip balm structure + emolliency Castor Oil · 25–40% → Lip gloss shine; pigment suspension; high-viscosity slip Candelilla Wax · 3–5% → Heat resistance; vegan hardener for Pakistan summer Shea Butter · 10–20% → Emolliency; fatty acid skin nutrition alongside wax structure
Maximum Barrier Triad — Hand / Heel Care
Petroleum Jelly · 15–25% + Paraffin 15% → Double occlusive; highest TEWL reduction for cracked heel White Mineral Oil · 20–30% → Emollient glide; spreadability; fills wax crystal voids Zinc Oxide · 2–5% → Mild antiseptic + UV scatter; occupational hand protection salve Allantoin · 0.5% → Healing; cell turnover stimulation; anti-irritant
Skin Care Actives — Barrier + Brightening
Vitamin E Oil · 0.5% → Antioxidant in oil phase; no interaction with paraffin; standard inclusion Niacinamide · 2–5% in aqueous phase → Brightening complement; addresses hyperpigmentation paraffin cannot Alpha Arbutin · 1–2% in aqueous phase → Brightening; South Asian skin tone evenness BHT · 0.1–0.2% → Oil-phase antioxidant; extends shelf life of wax + oil system
Botanicals — Pakistani Herbal Identity
Rose Essential Oil · 1–2% → Gulab Moom (گلاب موم) — rose wax tradition Black Seed (Kalonji) Oil · 1–3% → Tibb-e-Nabawi healing tradition; thymoquinone anti-inflammatory Sweet Almond Oil · 10–20% → Roghan Badam — lightweight emollient dry-feel complement Sandalwood Powder · 0.5–1% → Fine exfoliant; cultural fragrance identity in spa wax
Wax & Occlusive Comparison

Paraffin Wax vs. Alternatives

Petrolatum (Petroleum Jelly)
Petroleum-derived semi-solid · Superior emolliency · Lower melt point
Function vs. Paraffin Wax
Higher TEWL reduction per gram; more emollient skin feel; semi-solid at room temp — less structural than paraffin wax
EU Status / Pakistan
EU permitted (PAH refining rules apply) · DRAP no restriction · Halal ✓ · Available bioshop.pk
Use With Paraffin Wax
Classic triple-occlusive triad: Paraffin 15% + Petrolatum 20–25% + Mineral Oil 25–30% = maximum TEWL reduction
Pakistan Application
Adds emolliency and superior occlusion to paraffin wax-based ointments; ideal for occupational hand protection products
Verdict: Best companion, not substitute. Petrolatum adds emolliency that paraffin wax lacks; paraffin adds structural rigidity that petrolatum lacks. Use together for barrier sticks and healing salves. Available at bioshop.pk/products/pure-petroleum-jelly
Beeswax (Cera Alba)
Natural animal wax · Ester-based · Myricyl palmitate + mixed esters · MP 62–65°C
Function vs. Paraffin Wax
More emollient; slightly tacky skin adhesion; slightly lower occlusive efficacy; natural origin; ester chemistry gives different sensory feel
EU Status / Pakistan
EU permitted · DRAP no restriction · Halal status: debated — many scholarly authorities permit (non-porcine, insect-derived), but some brands avoid
Use With Paraffin Wax
Standard lip balm blend: Paraffin 10% + Beeswax 10–15% → structural balance + emolliency + natural positioning
Pakistan Application
Ideal for premium artisan lip balms and body butters where natural positioning is commercially valuable; halal documentation required
Verdict: Natural complement with different halal complexity. Paraffin Wax 60fh has unambiguous halal status (100% petrochemical); beeswax requires halal certification documentation. Blend for premium artisan products. Available at bioshop.pk/products/beeswax-pastilles
Candelilla Wax
Euphorbia antisyphilitica plant wax · Very hard · MP 68–73°C · Vegan
Function vs. Paraffin Wax
Harder at lower use levels; higher melt point (better Pakistan heat resistance); vegan; more brittle alone; used in small amounts as hardener
EU Status / Pakistan
EU permitted · DRAP no restriction · Halal ✓ (plant-origin) · Vegan ✓ · More expensive than paraffin
Use With Paraffin Wax
Summer climate hardener: add Candelilla 3–5% to paraffin-based lip balms to maintain droop resistance at 40°C+ Lahore heat
Pakistan Application
Essential addition to paraffin-based stick products for summer Pakistan retail; raises the effective softening point without adding feel heaviness
Verdict: Strategic hardener complement, not replacement. Used at 3–5% alongside paraffin to provide heat resistance without the cost premium of using candelilla alone as the primary wax. Available at bioshop.pk/products/candelilla-wax
White Mineral Oil
Paraffinum Liquidum · Fully liquid petroleum hydrocarbon · No melt point
Function vs. Paraffin Wax
Liquid complement to paraffin's solid structure; provides emollient glide; fills crystal lattice voids for smoother application; no structural function
EU Status / Pakistan
EU permitted (PAH refining rules apply) · DRAP no restriction · Halal ✓ · Cost-effective emollient in same petrochemical family
Use With Paraffin Wax
Formulation pair: Paraffin 15% + Mineral Oil 25–30% → solid structure + liquid emollient = spreadable, non-drag barrier product
Pakistan Application
Standard in barrier salves and ointments; adjusts product consistency; adds spreadability to otherwise-draggy high-paraffin formulas
Verdict: The liquid counterpart to solid paraffin wax. Together they constitute the classic petroleum-based barrier system — paraffin provides crystal structure, mineral oil provides emollient flow. Available at bioshop.pk/products/white-mineral-oil
Safety & Regulations

EU Reg., DRAP & Safety Overview

Educational summary of publicly available regulatory data as of 2024. Always consult the current EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, the ingredient Safety Data Sheet, CIR Safety Assessments, and your regulatory advisor before commercial formulation. This document does not constitute regulatory or safety advice.
✅

EU Cosmetics Regulation — Permitted with Purity Condition

Under EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, Paraffin (CAS 8002-74-2) is NOT listed in Annex II (Prohibited), Annex III (Restricted), or any other negative list. It is therefore a freely permitted cosmetic ingredient with one critically important condition: the full refining history must be documented, and the material must comply with European Pharmacopoeia (EP) polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) purity standards — specifically, benzo[a]pyrene must be below 1 ppm. For Pakistani exporters to EU markets, this means obtaining and retaining batch-specific PAH test results for every paraffin wax batch used. Bio Shop™ Pakistan provides this documentation on request. Failure to document PAH compliance in EU-export products creates serious regulatory exposure.

✅

Pakistan DRAP & Halal — Fully Compliant

The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) imposes no specific restriction on paraffin wax in cosmetics under the Cosmetics (Manufacture and Import) Rules 1975. Pakistani formulators producing domestic-market products may use Paraffin Wax 60fh freely within good manufacturing practice. Halal status is universally confirmed: paraffin wax is 100% petrochemical material derived from crude petroleum. No animal materials at any production stage. No fermentation. No ethanol. No biological inputs. Crude oil is a geological mineral substance. All major Halal certification bodies — Pakistan Halal Authority, JAKIM, IFANCA, SANHA, HFA — confirm halal status for external (non-ingested) cosmetic use. Bio Shop™ Pakistan can provide Halal compatibility documentation on request.

🧪

Human Safety — CIR & FDA Confirmed

The US Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has repeatedly affirmed cosmetic-grade paraffin wax as safe for cosmetic use across all current concentration ranges. Oral LD50 (rat) >5,000 mg/kg — practically non-toxic (EPA Category IV). Dermal LD50 (rabbit) >2,000 mg/kg. Non-irritating on both skin and eye (Draize negative). Non-sensitising — no reactive functional groups means no haptenation pathway for contact allergy. Not phototoxic — no UV-absorbing chromophores. Cosmetic-grade (PAH-compliant): confirmed non-carcinogenic by both CIR and SCCS. Not classified as reproductively toxic at cosmetic use levels. Bioaccumulation from topical use: essentially zero (C20+ chains excluded from transdermal absorption by intact stratum corneum).

✅

FDA (USA) Status — Freely Permitted

The US FDA permits cosmetic-grade paraffin wax without concentration limits for external cosmetic use under 21 CFR Part 700 series. For OTC drug products making skin protectant claims (e.g., "treats dry skin"), paraffin and petrolatum are listed permitted skin protectant ingredients in the FDA OTC Skin Protectant Drug Monograph (21 CFR 347). Pakistani manufacturers exporting to the US market may include Paraffin Wax 60fh in cosmetic formulations without restriction, provided standard cosmetic labelling requirements are met. For OTC drug product registration with FDA, full regulatory submission through an approved US agent would be required.

⚠️

PAH Contamination Risk — Industrial vs. Cosmetic Grade

The single most important safety distinction in paraffin wax procurement is the cosmetic/pharmaceutical grade versus industrial/candle grade distinction. Industrial-grade paraffin wax that has not undergone full hydrotreatment may contain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) including benzo[a]pyrene at 10–100 times the EU cosmetic limit. PAHs are classified as potentially carcinogenic. Pakistan's paraffin wax market includes both legitimate cosmetic-grade material and mislabelled industrial product. Always verify APHA colour (cosmetic = white, ≤10 APHA; adulterated = yellow/cream tint), odour in melt (cosmetic = odourless; industrial = detectable petroleum note), and obtain batch-specific PAH test results. Bio Shop™ Pakistan stocks cosmetic grade only and provides CoA with PAH documentation per batch on request.

🌊

Handling, Processing & Environmental Notes

Flash point >200°C — no fire hazard at normal cosmetic processing temperatures. However, never melt over open flame; use water bath or controlled electric hotplate. Molten paraffin wax above 200°C presents fire risk, but this temperature is never reached in cosmetic manufacturing. For spa therapy: verify molten wax temperature with calibrated digital thermometer before every client application; target 52–58°C; above 65°C can cause burns. Dispose of waste paraffin wax as solid waste — allow to solidify before disposal; do not pour large quantities of molten wax down drains. The material itself is chemically inert and presents minimal environmental hazard at cosmetic quantities. Packaging: HDPE or polypropylene bags are fully recyclable.

Handling & Storage

Storing in Pakistan's Climate

Temperature
Below 35°C ideal. Material chemically stable at any temperature below flash point (200°C+). Practical concern: above 45–50°C flakes may partially soften and fuse in the bag — does not damage quality but requires re-breaking before use
Container Type
HDPE or polypropylene sealed bags inside cardboard box. Avoid bare metal containers (minor oil staining possible). Glass acceptable for laboratory quantities. Keep sealed between uses to prevent dust and moisture contact
Light Exposure
Chemically stable to UV — no photodegradation. Extended UV exposure may cause minor surface yellowing of flakes over years. Store in opaque bags or cardboard containers. Not a critical concern for normal turnover stock
Shelf Life (sealed)
3–5 years under recommended conditions. Essentially indefinite if stored cool and dry — paraffin does not oxidise, hydrolyse, or ferment. Once opened: re-seal between uses; use within 12 months for best appearance. Pure wax does not spoil
Melting & Processing
Always fully melt before combining with other oil-phase ingredients. Melt in SS beaker over water bath at 65–75°C until completely clear. Never add cold solid flakes to near-pour-temperature oil phase — creates grainy, uneven texture in final product
Pour Temperature Control
Optimal pour temperature: 60–65°C for lip balm sticks; 58–62°C for body butter sticks. Too hot (>70°C) or too cold (<58°C) both give inferior crystal structure and gloss. Use digital thermometer — never estimate by feel when making premium products
Lahore Summer (May–Aug)
Temperatures 38–45°C. Active cooling required for raw wax stock above 5 kg. Flakes may fuse above 50°C — store in shaded, ventilated room. For finished stick products: always conduct 40°C droop test (24h) before selling in summer. Add Candelilla 3–5% to resist droop
Karachi Coastal Climate
High humidity (60–85% RH year-round). Moisture does not chemically affect paraffin wax — anhydrous material. Humidity concern: surface condensation on cold wax containers; moisture ingress to opened bags. Seal immediately after use. Keep storage bags closed tightly. Use desiccant packets in storage area
⚠ Quality check before use: Cosmetic-grade Paraffin Wax 60fh is white to off-white, completely odourless cold, and forms a clear, colourless odourless melt at 75°C. Check: (1) Colour — white to near-white; yellow or cream = suspect grade (2) Odour in melt — odourless to faint wax; noticeable petroleum odour = industrial/candle grade, not cosmetic grade (3) Melting point — use thermometer at clear-liquid transition; should be 58–62°C; melts below 50°C = softer grade or adulteration (4) Oil bleed — on blotter, cool melt should form a clean white film with no liquid oil separation at the edges. Always request CoA, PAH test results, and SDS for every bulk purchase. Bio Shop™ Pakistan provides documentation on request.
FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Paraffin Wax 60fh halal? What exactly is its origin?+
Paraffin Wax 60fh is 100% halal, confirmed by all major Islamic scholarly authorities and certification bodies including Pakistan Halal Authority, JAKIM (Malaysia), IFANCA (USA), SANHA (South Africa), and HFA (UK). The evidence: (1) Paraffin wax is exclusively petrochemical in origin — derived from crude petroleum through physical separation and purification processes. Crude oil is a geological mineral substance. (2) The production process — atmospheric distillation, vacuum distillation, solvent dewaxing, de-oiling, hydrotreatment, bleaching, deodorisation — involves no biological material at any stage. (3) No animal products, animal by-products, or animal-origin processing aids are used. (4) No fermentation or fermentation-derived substances at any stage. (5) No ethanol or any other intoxicating solvent. (6) The solvents used in dewaxing (MEK, toluene, propane) are removed entirely during processing; none remain in the final white wax. The finished cosmetic-grade product is a pure mixture of C20–C40 saturated hydrocarbons with no connection to any Haram (forbidden) biological material. For professional accounts, Bio Shop™ Pakistan can provide Halal compatibility documentation from the manufacturer on request.
How do I verify the quality of Paraffin Wax 60fh when purchasing in Pakistan?+
Four practical verification steps available to Pakistani formulators without laboratory GC/MS equipment. First, the visual test: cosmetic-grade Paraffin Wax 60fh is white to off-white. A yellow, cream, or brownish tint indicates industrial or candle grade with inadequate hydrotreatment — do not use for skin-contact products. Second, the melt test: melt a small sample in a glass vessel over hot water (75°C). Cosmetic grade: forms a clear, colourless, completely odourless liquid. A yellow or hazy melt with noticeable petroleum odour confirms inadequate refining. Third, the melting point test: place a thermometer in the melting sample; the clear-liquid transition should occur between 58–62°C. Melting below 50°C indicates a softer grade or adulteration with lower-melting material. Fourth, the blotter test: pour a small amount of melt onto white blotter paper; allow to cool and solidify. Cosmetic grade forms a smooth, white, uniform film with clean edges. Oil bleed (liquid spreading outside the solidified wax edge) indicates high residual oil content from incomplete de-oiling. Always request the Certificate of Analysis (CoA), Safety Data Sheet (SDS), and for EU-export products, batch-specific PAH (benzo[a]pyrene) test results from any supplier. Bio Shop™ Pakistan provides all this documentation per batch on request.
How should I store Paraffin Wax 60fh in Pakistan's hot and humid climate?+
Paraffin wax is chemically one of the most stable cosmetic ingredients and does not degrade from Pakistan's heat or humidity — the primary concerns are physical rather than chemical. In Lahore (continental, 5–45°C seasonal range, extreme summer heat May–August reaching 42–45°C): store in a shaded, ventilated room below 35°C; at temperatures above 45–50°C, flakes may soften and fuse together in the storage bag — this does not damage the material but requires re-breaking before use; for summer transportation, use insulated cooler bags and schedule deliveries during cooler morning hours. In Karachi (coastal, year-round high humidity 60–85% RH, ambient 30–42°C): moisture does not chemically degrade anhydrous paraffin wax, but seal bags immediately after each use to prevent moisture condensation on cold wax surfaces; use desiccant packets in storage areas; inspect for moisture ingress periodically in monsoon season. Both cities: store in sealed HDPE or polypropylene bags inside cardboard boxes; avoid direct sunlight (minor surface yellowing risk over years); shelf life 3–5 years under recommended conditions. For finished stick products containing paraffin wax, always conduct accelerated stability testing at 40°C for 24h (droop test) before summer retail launch — Lahore summers will soften sticks with insufficient harder wax complement. Add Candelilla Wax 3–5% to increase droop resistance.
What is the correct use level? Is there a maximum I cannot exceed?+
Paraffin Wax 60fh has no established maximum safe use level for external cosmetic applications — use level is determined entirely by product texture, performance, and stability requirements, not safety limits. In practice: lip balm sticks 8–20% (above 20% the stick becomes too hard and draggy for comfortable lip application); lip balm pots (soft texture) 5–12%; body butter sticks for Pakistan climate 15–30% (higher percentages needed for summer heat stability); barrier creams and hand salves in oil phase 10–25%; body lotions 1–5% for texture enhancement; spa therapy wax 80–100% — this is its traditional professional use at near-pure concentration. For Pakistan summer specifically: if your lip balm droops (deforms) at 40°C in the droop test, increase the higher-melting wax component (Candelilla +1–2% or Carnauba +0.5%) rather than simply increasing paraffin — this gives harder structure more efficiently. There is no cosmetic safety concern with using 30%, 50%, or 100% paraffin wax in appropriate product formats. The formulator's guide is always desired hardness, gloss, skin feel, and stability at 40°C — not safety constraints.
Is Paraffin Wax 60fh safe for South Asian and Pakistani skin types?+
Yes — paraffin wax has an excellent safety profile for all skin types including the South Asian Fitzpatrick III–VI range that encompasses most Pakistani consumers. Its complete chemical inertness (no reactive functional groups, no protein-binding capacity, no allergen potential) makes it typically well-tolerated even by sensitive skin types. The key skin-type consideration is functional rather than safety-related: paraffin wax in facial formulations should be used cautiously on oily or acne-prone skin (prevalent in Pakistani urban adolescent populations), because the occlusive film may trap sebum and exacerbate comedone formation. This is a suitability-of-use consideration, not a toxicological one — paraffin wax itself causes no allergy or irritation. For Pakistan's two most common skin concerns, paraffin wax addresses one comprehensively: for dryness and xerosis (extremely prevalent in winter Lahore, Peshawar, and northern regions; among industrial workers), paraffin wax-based barrier products are the most efficient protective intervention available. For hyperpigmentation and melasma (the other major Pakistani skin concern), paraffin wax is neutral — it neither worsens nor improves pigmentation. The correct approach is to combine paraffin wax's barrier protection with brightening actives (Niacinamide, Alpha Arbutin, Kojic Acid) formulated in the aqueous phase of the same or complementary products.
What do EU cosmetics regulations require for Paraffin Wax 60fh in export products?+
EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 does not prohibit or restrict paraffin wax — it is not listed in Annex II (Prohibited Substances) or Annex III (Restricted Substances). However, there is a specific and important purity condition that Pakistani exporters must satisfy. The regulation requires that the full refining history of any paraffin wax, petrolatum, or mineral oil ingredient be documented, and that the material be demonstrably non-carcinogenic per European Pharmacopoeia (EP) PAH purity standards. In practice, this means: (1) Obtain batch-specific PAH test results confirming benzo[a]pyrene below 1 ppm per the EP Paraffinum Solidum monograph — and retain these in the Product Information File (PIF) for every EU-export cosmetic; (2) Ensure your paraffin wax supplier can provide documentation confirming full refining history and hydrotreatment; (3) Include the paraffin wax PAH compliance documentation in your EU Cosmetic Product Safety Report (CPSR) prepared by a qualified Safety Assessor. Bio Shop™ Pakistan can provide the required PAH documentation from manufacturers per batch. For Pakistan domestic market products: DRAP currently imposes no such documentation requirement, though maintaining it as best practice is recommended. EU allergen declaration: not applicable — paraffin wax is not a fragrance allergen and requires no separate INCI declaration beyond the standard ingredient listing ("Paraffin").
Which Pakistani consumer segments and product categories benefit most from Paraffin Wax 60fh?+
Four Pakistani consumer segments represent the strongest commercial opportunities. First, urban DIY beauty entrepreneurs and small batch cosmetic brands: Pakistan's rapidly growing artisan cosmetic sector produces lip balms, body butters, and skin care products for the urban Karachi-Lahore-Islamabad consumer. Paraffin Wax 60fh is the most accessible, reliable, and cost-effective wax for this segment — available at Bio Shop™ Pakistan, technically excellent, and halal without ambiguity. Second, industrial and agricultural worker hand protection: Pakistan employs tens of millions of workers in manufacturing, agriculture, and construction whose hands suffer chronic occupational dermatitis. A simple, effective, low-cost barrier salve (Paraffin 15% + Petrolatum 20% + Mineral Oil 30%) addresses a genuine and largely unserved clinical need at a price point (PKR 150–200 per 100g jar) accessible to this population. Third, the salon and spa industry: Pakistan's beauty salon sector is expanding across every urban centre, and paraffin hand/foot spa therapy — offering excellent margins (raw material cost PKR 40–60 per service, retail price PKR 500–1,500) — represents a significant supply opportunity for Bio Shop™ Pakistan's cosmetic-grade wax. Fourth, bridal and Eid gift market: premium artisan lip balms and skin care sets combining paraffin wax's technical efficacy with Pakistani cultural aesthetics (rose-scented, saffron-tinted, traditional tin packaging) occupy a commercially underserved premium segment with high perceived value.
What Urdu brand names work for Paraffin Wax products? How does it perform in Pakistan's seasons?+
Recommended Urdu naming vocabulary for paraffin wax-containing products draws on Pakistan's wax and protection traditions: Moom (موم — wax, the classical Unani term), Marhoom (مرہم — ointment/salve, from Ibn Sina's Canon of Medicine), Gulab Jaan (گلاب جان — Rose Darling, for rose-scented lip balms), Mahafiz (محافظ — Protector/Guardian, for barrier products), Narm Kadam (نرم قدم — Soft Steps, for heel balm), Safed Rakshak (سفید رکشک — White Protector, for barrier ointment). For seasonal positioning: winter (Sardi ki Hifazat — سردی کی حفاظت, winter protection) is the most commercially natural entry point — Pakistan's dry continental winter creates a clear consumer pain point (cracked lips, dry hands, cracked heels) that paraffin wax-based products address directly. In terms of seasonal performance: paraffin wax-based products are most effective in Pakistan's winter months (October–February) when low ambient humidity (20–40% RH) in the Punjab belt drives elevated TEWL and skin barrier compromise. In summer (Karachi June–August, Lahore May–September), the heat presents a product stability challenge for stick formats — solved by ensuring adequate harder wax content and stability testing — but the consumer demand for heel care and sun-protective lip balms remains year-round. Products can be positioned differently: winter barrier salves for Lahore and northern regions; cooling, SPF-containing lip care and protective sports balms for year-round Karachi use. For Eid and bridal gift positioning, package lip balms in artisan Pakistani-style tins with floral motifs — the product inside is modern and effective, the packaging communicates cultural authenticity and gift-worthiness.
Complete Your Palette

Essential Companions

Wax · Emollient
Beeswax Pastilles
Classic lip balm partner: Paraffin 10% + Beeswax 12% = structure + emolliency. Natural origin; halal-documentable
→
Carrier Oil · Lip Gloss
Castor Oil
Lip balm shine and slip: 25–40% Castor Oil fills wax crystal lattice; creates glossy continuous film on lips
→
Wax · Heat Resistance
Candelilla Wax
Pakistan summer essential: add 3–5% to paraffin sticks for droop resistance at 40°C+ Lahore heat. Vegan ✓
→
Occlusive · Barrier
Pure Petroleum Jelly
Triple barrier triad: Paraffin 15% + Petrolatum 25% + Mineral Oil 30% = maximum TEWL reduction for cracked heels and hands
→
Emollient · Liquid Phase
White Mineral Oil
Liquid counterpart to solid paraffin. Adds spreadability, emollient glide, and fills wax crystal voids for smooth application
→
Butter · Skin Nourishment
Shea Butter
Emollience and fatty acid nourishment alongside paraffin's structural backbone. Standard in body butter sticks and healing salves
→
Antioxidant · Oil Phase
Vitamin E Oil
Standard 0.5% inclusion in any paraffin wax product. Antioxidant in oil phase; skin conditioning; preservative aid for finished products
→
Active · Healing
Allantoin
Combines with paraffin barrier in healing salves: paraffin provides physical occlusion; allantoin stimulates skin cell turnover and healing
→
Full Reference Document

Dive Deeper — Read the Complete Guide

Everything on this page and substantially more — complete petroleum refining and hydrotreatment production pathway with industrial process diagrams; full structure-activity relationship analysis of the n-alkane carbon chain and crystal structure on TEWL reduction; detailed EU EP and USP pharmacopoeial purity standards and how to interpret CoA documentation; PAH risk assessment and batch verification protocol for Pakistani importers; complete Unani medicine history of Moom and Marhoom — wax-based protective preparations from Ibn Sina's Canon of Medicine to modern cosmetics; clinical evidence on paraffin spa therapy for arthritis and joint stiffness management (Ayling and Marks, 2000); advanced crystal structure control techniques — pour temperature, cooling rate, wax blend ratios for Pakistani climate conditions; full INCI declaration guidance; glossary of 18 key cosmetic wax science terms; and three complete product concepts with Pakistani Urdu branding and market positioning — all in one comprehensive professional reference document.

View Full Document
Browse Collections Aroma Chemicals Essential Oils Carrier Oils Fragrance Oils Perfume Oil All Collections →