JAPAN WAX

Japan wax is a 100% natural, plant-based, vegan wax derived from the fruit peels of the Rhus verniciflua tree, traditionally processed by boiling the berries and skimming off the wax.
Known for its soft, creamy texture and excellent emollient properties, Japan wax enhances moisture retention, improves skin feel, and stabilizes emulsions in cosmetic formulations.
Ideal for lip care, skincare, and decorative cosmetics, Japan wax provides a velvety, whipped-cream-like texture while serving as a sustainable alternative to beeswax and synthetic thickeners.

CAS Number: 8001-39-6
EC Number: 232-293-8
Molecular Formula: C51H98O6
Molecular Mass: 807.3 g/mol

Synonyms: Berry Wax, Sumac Wax, Japan Wax, Rhus Wax, Rhus Verniciflua Wax, Rhus Succedanea Wax, Wax from Rhus Trees, Vegetable Tallow, Japan Vegetable Wax, Rhus Peel Wax, Rhus Berry Wax, Tallow Tree Wax, Lacquer Tree Wax, Sumach Wax (UK spelling), Chinese Vegetable Wax, Chinese Wax (sometimes confused with insect wax), Natural Berry Wax, Natural Rhus Wax, Plant-Based Wax, Plant Wax from Rhus, Wax of Rhus Verniciflua, Rhus Verniciflua Peel Cera (INCI name), Rhus Succedanea Fruit Wax (INCI alternative), Fatty Acid Glycerides of Rhus, Pale Yellow Wax, Korean Sumac Wax, Japanese Sumac Wax, Asian Berry Wax, East Asian Wax, Non-beeswax Natural Wax, Low Melting Natural Wax, Vegetable Soft Wax, Rhus Fat, Rhus Oil Wax, Semi-solid Vegetable Wax, Oleaginous Wax from Rhus, Creamy Berry Wax, Rhus Cera, Botanical Wax from Sumac, Rhus Extracted Wax, Berry Wax NF (Pharmaceutical grade), Berrywax (One-word trade style), Wacholderwachs (German – "Juniper wax", sometimes misused for berry wax), Cire de Baies (French – "Wax of Berries"), Cera di Bacche (Italian – "Berry Wax"), Cera Vegetale del Rhus (Italian – "Vegetable wax from Rhus"), Wachs aus Rhusfrüchten (German – "Wax from Rhus fruits"), Berry Wax Type A (refined grade name), Vegetable Wax CAS 8001-39-6, Rhus-Based Natural Wax

Japan wax is a natural, plant-based wax derived from the peels of berries, particularly from species like the Rhus verniciflua tree.
Japan wax is known for its soft, creamy consistency and pale yellow appearance.

Due to its emollient properties, Japan wax is widely used in cosmetics and personal care products such as lip balms, lotions, creams, and hair styling products.
Japan wax enhances texture, provides moisture retention, and helps stabilize emulsions.
As a vegan and biodegradable alternative to beeswax, Japan wax is especially valued in formulations designed for sensitive skin and sustainable beauty applications.

Japan wax is produced from the berry fruit peels of the Rhus Verniciflua tree native to China.
The freshly collected berries are boiled and filtered before processing into the final wax product, Japan wax.

Japan wax is a very soft and smooth wax that helps make delicate emulsions.
Japan wax has a decent pale colour and scent and does not affect the colour and scent of the product.

This soft, smooth wax, Japan wax, is a vegan alternative to beeswax.
Japan wax has emulsifying properties, meaning it helps other ingredients bind.

Berries that are naturally coated with wax to protect themselves from heat are harvested and processed into raw wax.
The fruit is boiled in water until the wax floats on top and can be skimmed off.

Japan wax is a 100% plant-based, vegan wax extracted from the fruit peel of the Asian lacquer sumac tree.
Japan wax is a sustainable alternative to beeswax and synthetic thickeners.
Japan wax has a creamy texture, moisturizes the skin, and ensures smooth application – without comedogenicity or weight.

Japan wax is a gently nourishing, vegan body butter that moisturizes, smooths, and protects without being greasy or heavy.
Ideal for fragrance-free natural cosmetics, Japan wax provides a particularly smooth skin feel for sensitive skin and dry lips.

Japan wax, a valuable natural product, is obtained from the fruits of Rhus succedanea, also known as the Japanese lacquer tree or Japanese berry bush, and has found a wide range of applications in various industries.
This evergreen tree, native to temperate regions of East Asia, impresses not only with Japan wax's distinctive appearance but also with its versatile uses.

In this comprehensive article, we will closely examine the origin, characteristics, and uses of Japan wax.
The Japanese lacquer tree is a medium to large-sized tree that typically reaches heights of about 5 to 10 meters.

Japan wax's growth form is bushy, with spreading branches and dense foliage, giving it an imposing and attractive appearance.
The leaves of Rhus succedanea are dark green and leathery.

They are innate and consist of several smaller leaflets arranged along a central stem.
This leaf structure contributes to the plant's aesthetic appeal and makes it a popular choice in gardens and landscaping.

The main attraction of the Japanese lacquer tree is undoubtedly Japan wax's fruits.
The berries are initially green and develop a bright red color when ripe.

These small, round berries are rich in a valuable raw material - Japan wax.
Japan wax is obtained from the fruit peel of the lacquer tree, which is mainly found in China but also in the higher regions of India, Japan, and Korea.

Japan wax is harvested from October to the beginning of December in the course of a press and extraction process.
Japan wax is available as pastilles and almost white in color.

Japan wax is derived from berries of Rhus Verniciflua.
As part of it melts below 30 °C, Japan wax has a very silky and soft skin feel, comparable to a classic emollient.

Japan wax is very versatile and improves the sensory properties of formulations.
Japan wax is a soft wax that acts as an emollient.

An easily emulsifiable wax, Japan wax helps with skin conditioning and stabilising products.
With a high ester content, Japan wax mainly consists of acids such as Palmitic and Stearic acids as well Heneicosylic acid, a unique C21 fatty acid.

Japan wax is produced from the berry fruit peels of the Rhus Verniciflua tree native in China.
The berries are washed in hot water.
The Japan wax separates out when boiled in hot water and is then skimmed off the surface, before being despatched to the manufacturer in Germany where the final refining process takes place.

Japan wax imparts a soft and silky feel in products.
In addition, Japan wax also produces very soft textures in creams – like whipped cream.

Japan wax is perfect for Lip Gloss, Lipsticks and Mascaras.
Even though it is a soft product, Japan wax has improved the 'break resistance' in cosmetic pencil products.

Japan wax is obtained from the berry fruit peel of the lacquer tree (Rhus verniciflua).
Japan wax is 100% vegan and popular in cosmetics for its moisturizing properties.

Moreover, Japan wax is ideally suited as an additive to waxes with higher melting temperatures and serves as an excellent stabilizer.
Natural vegetable wax, Japan wax, is derived traditionally via boiling berries and skimming.

Low unsaturation makes Japan wax stable, odor-retentive, and suitable for scented applications.
In food-grade/process, Japan wax is considered non-hazardous per EU §1272/2008.
Japan wax is a mild, plant-based wax from bayberry fruit peels.

With a melting point around 40–54°C and staple fatty acid esters, Japan wax's stable, non-hazardous, and prized for imparting creamy textures and subtle fragrance in candles, soaps, and cosmetics.
Its low chemical reactivity and pleasant sensory profile make Japan wax a sought-after natural ingredient.

It is a pale Japan wax derived from berry fruit peels of the Rhus Vemiciflua tree.
Japan wax consists of a high amount of glycerol ester of C16-18 fatty acid.

This low-melting soft wax, Japan wax, offers velvet, powdery skin feel and functions as an outstanding pay-off enhancer for stick and pencil preparations.
Japan wax gives O/W emulsions a moussy, whipped cream type of texture.

Japan wax is used in skin care, sun care, decorative cosmetic/make-up, hair care, styling/hair foams, etc.
Japan wax is 100% natural, vegan and Kosher compliant.

Japan wax is a soft, white-yellow vegetable wax.
Japan wax is a wax of vegetable origin characterized by a low melting point: the data show a range between 49 and 56° C.
Japan wax is also very stable to temperature variations, having a moderate oil cross-linking capacity.

All these points allow for anhydrous stick systems, for example, the creation of unique performances by combining Japan wax with other waxes: as internal tests have shown, this combination increases the smoothness and yield of the finished product.
Japan wax is a low melting soft wax with a velvety, powdery skin feel.

Japan wax is collected by boiling the peel of the fruits of the Rhus Verniciflua tree (also known as the lacquer tree).
Japan wax is rich in C16-18 glyceryl esters making it a soft, buttery, low melting point wax.

Japan wax has soft, silky and light texturiser with great barrier protective properties.
Japan wax is glossy finish.

Uses of Japan wax:
Japan wax is an extremely versatile natural product and finds diverse applications in various industries.
Japan wax forms a natural barrier on the skin or surfaces, protecting them from moisture loss.
In cosmetics, this ensures long-lasting skin hydration, while in food processing, Japan wax preserves the freshness of fruits.

In food processing, Japan wax provides fruits and confectionery with a protective coating that shields them from external factors like moisture and dust.
This coating also gives them a shiny appearance, enhancing their attractiveness.

Another crucial aspect is the environmental friendliness of Japan wax.
Being a natural product, Japan wax is a sustainable alternative to synthetic chemicals and waxes.

This makes Japan wax appealing to environmentally conscious consumers and manufacturers.
In conclusion, Japan wax is an extremely versatile and useful natural product used in various industries to enhance and protect products.

Its natural properties make Japan wax a popular choice in skincare, food processing, and industrial applications.
Japan wax is applicable in all cosmetic material from cleansing balms and butters to hair styling product, decorative cosmetics and emulsions.

Japan wax imparts emulsion stabilizing properties as well as a "whipped cream" and powdery texture to emulsions.
In decorative cosmetics, Japan wax is specially used in stick formulations such as kajals and lipsticks.

Despite its low melting point, Japan wax imparts stability and anti-break properties.
Due to its low melting point and soft texture, Japan wax is excellent for adding the required consistency to lip balm sticks, creams and ointments.

When melted in castor oil, Japan wax takes on a gel-like and clear consistency, which is why it is also used in lip gloss.
Even though Japan wax is 100% plant-derived, it cannot be regarded as a universal alternative to beeswax due to being somewhat softer.

Japan wax can very easily be combined with beeswax and other waxes, however, to achieve the desired consistency.
Japan wax is used in lip- and skin care products as a consistency enhancer and protective wax component.

Japan wax cannot be used higher than 1-1.5% in water-emulsified O/W emulsions if you use other consistency enhancers (fatty alcohols or stearates).
Japan wax cannot simply be exchanged for another wax in formulations.

The low melting point must be taken into account and compensated with a wax with a higher melting point, such as candelilla or carnauba wax.
Japan wax improves colour deposition in colour cosmetics (lipsticks, foundations etc).

Japan wax reduces tackiness in oil-in-water emulsions.
Japan wax reduces Trans Epidermal Water Loss on skin.
Japan wax combines well with pigments for colour cosmetics.

Candles uses:
Japan wax is used as a vegan alternative to beeswax to produce candles.
Japan wax provides excellent burning properties, particularly in tea lights.

Moreover, Japan wax caters for a good spreading behavior of cosmetic products on the skin and serves as a vegan alternative to beeswax.
Japan wax from wild collection has a refatting, moisturizing and consistency-giving effect – for a smooth skin feeling without clogging pores.

Use of Japan wax in natural cosmetics:

Japan wax has many uses – especially in:
Lip care products & lip balms.
Moisturizing face creams & body lotions.

Hair care products such as leave-in treatments and styling products.
Solid creams, balms & water-free formulations.

Cosmetics Industry uses:
In the cosmetics industry, Japan wax has a solid place in a variety of products.
Japan wax's applications range from skincare products to decorative cosmetics.
Here are some uses of Japan wax in cosmetics:

Lip balms and lipsticks uses:
Japan wax serves as an important component in lip balms and lipsticks.
Japan wax provides these products with a smooth texture, enhances durability, and contributes to lip moisturization.

Skin creams and lotions uses:
Japan wax is often used in skin creams and lotions to improve consistency and protect the skin from moisture loss.
Japan wax forms a protective barrier on the skin that is breathable.

Mascaras and eyebrow pencils:
In decorative cosmetics, Japan wax is used in mascaras and eyebrow pencils to optimize product shape and adhesion.
This ensures long-lasting effects and prevents smudging.

Food Processing:
Japan wax is also used in the food industry, especially in the processing of fruits and confectionery.
Here are some applications in food processing:

Coating for fruits:
Japan wax is often used as a coating agent for fresh fruits like apples.
Japan wax protects the fruits from moisture loss and gives them a shiny, appealing look.

Candies and chewing gum:
In the production of candies and chewing gum, Japan wax serves as a glossing and anti-sticking agent.
Japan wax ensures that candies do not stick together and gives them an attractive appearance.

Effect of Japan wax:
The effect of Japan wax in the above-mentioned application areas can be attributed to its unique properties.

Suggestions for Use:
As most parts of this wax melts below 30°C Japan wax imparts a velvet soft and silky feel in products.
Perfect for Lip Gloss, Lipsticks and Mascara's.

Even though it is a soft product, Japan wax has improved the 'break resistance' in cosmetic pencil products.
When used in Emulsions, Japan wax helps the Cream even whiter, as smaller droplet sizes making the product more stable.
Japan wax can be used as a replacement for Beeswax, but bear in mind it is considerably lighter, so perfect for mousse products.

Benefits of Japan wax:
Japan wax offers a range of benefits that make it a valuable ingredient across various industries.
In cosmetics, Japan wax's smooth, creamy consistency and excellent emollient properties help improve skin hydration, texture, and product spreadability, making it ideal for lip balms, creams, and hair care products.

Japan wax's low melting point provides a soft payoff in stick formulations, while its natural origin supports clean-label and vegan-friendly product development.
In food applications, refined forms of Japan wax can serve as glazing agents or moisture barriers, contributing to product stability and visual appeal.

Industrially, Japan wax functions as a biodegradable alternative to synthetic waxes in polishes, coatings, and lubricants.
Overall, Japan wax combines functional performance with environmental sustainability, aligning well with current trends favoring plant-based, non-toxic, and renewable raw materials.

Properties of Japan wax:

Chemical Composition:

Complex wax: 
Japan wax contains a complex mixture of lipids, including fatty acids, alcohols, esters, and hydroxy compounds.

High melting point: 
Japan wax is characterized by a relatively high melting point, which supports its stability in various applications.

Sustainability:

Biodegradable: 
Japan wax is biodegradable and environmentally friendly, increasing its appeal in times of environmental protection.

Sustainable source: 
The extraction of Japan wax from the Japanese lacquer tree can be done sustainably without endangering the health of the plant or its ecosystems.

Texture Improvement:

Binder: 
Japan wax often acts as a binder in cosmetic and skincare products, providing them with a pleasant texture.

Smoothness and suppleness: 
In lip balms and creams, Japan wax imparts smoothness and suppleness to the products.

Natural Product:

Synthetic alternatives: 
Japan wax is often preferred over synthetic waxes as it is a natural product and is often considered safer and more environmentally friendly.

Low allergy potential: 
Compared to some synthetic waxes, Japan wax has a low allergy potential, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.

Versatile Adaptability:

Form variability: 
Japan wax can be provided in various forms, including pastilles, granules, or blocks, depending on processing and application requirements.

Combination with other ingredients: 
Japan wax can be combined with other ingredients in cosmetic and industrial formulations to achieve desired properties.
Japan wax is not only a versatile natural product used in various industries but also stands out for its sustainability and natural properties, making it a preferred choice for manufacturers and consumers alike.
Its unique chemical composition and versatile adaptability make Japan wax an essential raw material in cosmetics, food processing, and many other industries.

Production of Japan wax:
Japan wax is traditionally produced from the peels of berries—particularly those of the Rhus verniciflua or lacquer tree—harvested in East Asia during autumn and early winter, typically between October and December.
The process begins by gently boiling the harvested fruit or peels in water, whereupon the wax separates and floats to the surface, enabling it to be skimmed off.

After recovery, the wax may undergo further processing or refining steps—such as pressing, filtration, decolorization, or deodorization—to yield a cleaner, high-quality product in pastille, flake, or pellet form.
In some modern facilities, advanced methods such as CO₂ supercritical extraction, activated-carbon decolorization, and natural sunlight treatment are used to enhance purity, stability, and consistency

Origin of Japan wax:
The original habitat of the Japanese lacquer tree mainly extends across East Asia, with China and Japan being Japan wax's primary distribution areas.
Due to Japan wax's versatile uses, the cultivation of Rhus succedanea has extended to other parts of the world, especially in regions with similar climates.

China is one of the most significant cultivation areas for Rhus succedanea.
The provinces of Zhejiang, Jiangsu, and Anhui are known for their extensive cultivation of this versatile tree.
Japan wax is widely extracted here and used in various industries.

Since the plant is native to Japan, Japan wax is also found in various regions of the country, especially in mountainous areas.
Japanese culture has a long history of using Rhus succedanea, both for its aesthetic qualities and the extraction of Japan wax.

In Korea as well, the Japanese lacquer tree is cultivated to obtain Japan wax and other products.
The use of Japan wax in Korean traditions and modern applications has helped establish this plant in Korean agriculture.

The worldwide distribution of Rhus succedanea reflects its diverse applications and the increasing demand for Japan wax in various industries.
Japan wax is a natural wax obtained from the fruits of the Japanese lacquer tree.

Japan wax stands out for Japan wax's unique properties and diverse applications.
Here is an overview of how Japan wax is extracted.

Handling and Storage of Japan wax:

Handling:
Avoid generating dust.
Use with adequate ventilation.

Handle in accordance with good industrial hygiene and safety practices.
Avoid contact with eyes and prolonged skin contact.

Storage:
Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from heat sources, open flames, and direct sunlight.
Keep containers tightly closed to avoid contamination or oxidation.

Recommended storage temperature: 15–25°C.

Stability and Reactivity of Japan wax:

Chemical Stability:
Stable under normal conditions of use and storage.

Incompatible Materials:
Strong oxidizing agents (e.g., peroxides, nitric acid).

Decomposition Products:
When heated to decomposition, may release carbon monoxide (CO) and carbon dioxide (CO₂).

Reactivity:
Not known to be reactive under normal conditions.

First Aid Measures of Japan wax:

Inhalation:
Move person to fresh air.
If breathing is difficult, seek medical attention.

Skin Contact:
Wash with soap and water.
Seek medical advice if irritation persists.

Eye Contact:
Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes.
Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do.
Get medical attention if irritation occurs.

Ingestion:
Rinse mouth.
Do not induce vomiting.
Seek medical attention if symptoms occur.

Firefighting Measures of Japan wax:

Suitable Extinguishing Media:
Use dry chemical, foam, CO₂, or water spray.

Unsuitable Media:
Do not use high-pressure water jet, as Japan wax may spread the fire.

Fire Hazards:
Wax vapors may form combustible mixtures at elevated temperatures.

Protective Equipment:
Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and protective clothing.

Accidental Release Measures of Japan wax:

Personal Protection:
Wear gloves, goggles, and protective clothing.
Avoid breathing dust.

Spill Response:

Small Spill:
Sweep up or vacuum without generating dust.

Large Spill:
Collect material mechanically and place in a suitable container.

Cleaning:
Wash spill site with water and detergent after material removal.

Environmental Precautions:
Avoid release into drains, surface water, or soil.

Exposure Controls / Personal Protective Equipment of Japan wax:

Engineering Controls:
Use in well-ventilated areas.
Local exhaust ventilation may be needed if handling large quantities.

Eye/Face Protection:
Safety glasses or goggles.

Skin Protection:
Protective gloves (e.g., nitrile or PVC).

Respiratory Protection:
Not typically required for solid form.
If airborne dust is generated, use a dust mask or respirator (e.g., P2 or N95).

General Hygiene:
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Do not eat, drink, or smoke during use.

Identifiers of Japan wax:
INCI Name: Rhus Verniciflua Peel Cera (or Rhus Succedanea Fruit Wax)
CAS Number: 8001-39-6
EC Number: 232-293-8
Chemical Type: Natural wax (technically a fat — mixture of glycerides)
Synonyms: Vegetable Tallow, Wax from Rhus Trees, Wood Wax
HS Code: Typically classified under 1521.90 (Vegetable waxes, others)
REACH Status (EU): Often listed as exempt due to natural origin; may be registered under plant waxes
UN Number: Not classified as hazardous, so no UN number typically applies

Properties of Japan wax:
Appearance: Pale yellow to off-white solid (flakes, pellets, or pastilles)
Odor: Mild, slightly fatty or plant-like
Melting Point: 48–54°C
Flash Point: >200°C (closed cup)
Density (at 20°C): ~0.95–0.98 g/cm³
Solubility in Water: Insoluble
Solubility in Oils: Soluble in hot oils, esters, hydrocarbons
Acid Value: 5–30 mg KOH/g (lower in refined grades)
Saponification Value: 220–240 mg KOH/g
Iodine Value: 5–15
Peroxide Value: Typically low (<5 meq/kg) in stable, fresh material
Refractive Index: ~1.45–1.47 (at melted state)
Molecular Formula: C₅₁H₉₈O₆
Molecular Mass: 807.3 g/mol

Melting Point: 48 – 54 °C
Softening Point: ~30 °C
Density/Specific Gravity: ~0.977 – 0.995 g/mL
Refractive Index: ~1.436
Acid Value: ~3.5 – 30 mg KOH/g
Saponification Value: ~205 – 217 mg KOH/g
Iodine Value: ~1.9 – 3.9

Appearance: Light yellowish to greenish-white waxy solid (pellets)
Odor: Faint, mild balsam-like, slightly sweet
Solubility: Oil soluble
Physical State: Firm
CAS Number: 8001-39-6 (Rhus verniciflua wax), 225234-38-8
INCI Name: Rhus Verniciflua Peel Cera

Origin: Natural
Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, and light-shielded place in original packaging
CAS Number: Japan wax is a mixture, so it does not have a single unique CAS number, but it's sometimes identified under CAS: 68956-68-3
EC Number: Not assigned (N/A) – because it is a natural complex substance (UVCB)
Molecular Formula: Mixture – consists mainly of C16-C24 fatty acid esters and long-chain alcohols
Molecular Weight: Varies (as it's a mixture), but the typical range is around 400–600 g/mol for the major ester components