Japan wax

Japan wax (CAS 8001-39-6), also known as haze wax, is a vegetable tallow derived from the berries of Rhus succedanea trees native to East Asia.

Where is Japan wax used?

• Personal care: consistency agent and emollient structurant in lipsticks, balms and solid creams, where its relatively high melting point helps stabilize formulations
• Coatings and polishes: rheology control and slip improvement, and surface hardness adjustment in floor waxes, shoe polishes and furniture finishes
• Leather and textile finishing: softener and lubricant that imparts pliability without compromising surface integrity
• Adhesive and sealant formulators add it as a plasticizer to modify tack and flexibility in hot-melt and solvent-based systems.

Good to know: Unlike most plant waxes, it contains a high proportion of triglycerides rather than wax esters. Cosmetic-grade material meets purity requirements relevant to personal care.

Commercial specifications

• Typical commercial lots characterized by acid value, saponification value and melting point to confirm batch consistency