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KahlWax 2178 is a special wax raw material with a light color, hard and high melting point, obtained as a result of full hydrogenation of natural castor oil, offered by the manufacturer under the name KahlWax 2178 Castor. The INCI name of the product is Hydrogenated Castor Oil and its basic structure consists largely of 12-hydroxystearic acid derivative triglycerides.
KahlWax 2178 is obtained by converting liquid castor oil into saturated and solid structure by hydrogenation. During hydrogenation, the carbon-carbon double bonds of the ricinoleic acid chains in castor oil are saturated; the hydroxyl function on the 12th carbon is preserved, resulting in a characteristic wax structure consisting of high-melting hydroxylated fatty acid glycerides.
KahlWax 2178 is a hard, light-colored, and high-melting specialty wax obtained by fully hydrogenating virgin castor oil. KahlWax 2178 is composed primarily of glycerides of 12-hydroxystearic acid and is designed to provide structure, viscosity control, oil binding, and pigment dispersion in cosmetic and technical formulations.
KahlWax 2178 has a high melting point, strong consistency-building effect, and plant-based origin, making it particularly useful in anhydrous sticks, lip products, color cosmetics, hair styling products, emulsions, and other structured formulas.
One of the most distinctive features of KahlWax 2178 is its high melting point in the range of 85–88 °C and a hardness value of 2–6 dmm. This combination makes the product a structure-forming and heat-resistant component in lipsticks, sticks, balms, waterless decorative cosmetics and different solid formulations.
KahlWax 2178 should be understood as a natural oil that has been hydrogenated rather than a single pure, fully pure low molecular weight compound. KahlWax 2178 contains triglycerides derived predominantly from 12-hydroxystearic acid, with a small number of related glyceride structures resulting from the natural composition of natural castor oil.
KahlWax 2178, physical and analytical specifications such as melting point, hydroxyl value, acid value, and saponification value are more useful for quality control than a single idealized molecular structure.
KahlWax 2178 is commercially classified as Hydrogenated Castor Oil and is also often referred to as Castor Wax or HCO.
Hydrogenation converts unsaturated castor fatty acid components into more saturated structures while maintaining the characteristic hydroxyl functionality associated with glycerides of 12-hydroxystearic acid.
KahlWax 2178 conversion turns liquid castor oil into a hard, brittle, and thermally stable wax that remains solid at normal room temperature.
The raw material is obtained from castor oil extracted from the seeds of Ricinus communis.
KahlWax 2178 hydrogenation significantly reduces the original saturation of the oil and improves its melting point, oxidative stability, and structural rigidity. The resulting wax provides a distinctly different formulation function than non-hydrogenated castor oil; non-hydrogenated castor oil remains liquid and is mainly used as a mitigating, disseminating oil and solvent.
KahlWax 2178 ability to bind oils can help reduce syneresis. Syneresis occurs when liquid ingredients separate during storage or come out of a structured formula. A stronger crystal network can immobilize part of the liquid phase and improve product stability.
KahlWax 2178 is not only an inert wax used for the purpose of hardening the formulation. The manufacturer describes the product as an oil binder/thickener, stabilizer, and viscosity regulator; it also states that it has pronounced pigment dispersion properties, facilitating the dispersion of pigments within the oil phase.
KahlWax 2178 can be especially evaluated in color cosmetics such as lipsticks, foundation sticks, concealers, eye makeup, and so on, where the pigment load is high. The wax crystal network can physically retain oils and pigment dispersion, supporting the body, stability, and processing behavior of the product.
KahlWax 2178 can also be used in emulsions. The crystal structure it forms in the oil phase can contribute to viscosity and physical stability by increasing the mechanical strength of the continuous phase; however, the product should not be considered as a classical primary emulsifier alone.
The high melting point of KahlWax 2178 can provide a technical advantage in solid cosmetics where there is a risk of softening during hot climate, transportation and storage. However, excessive use can make the product difficult to apply, increase brittleness or create a harder than desired feel on the lips and skin.
The general use level recommended by KAHL for KahlWax 2178 is 1–10%. The actual optimal amount should vary depending on whether the product is lipstick, balm, pomade, cream, pigment paste, or technical application.
WHAT IS KAHLWAX 2178?
KahlWax 2178 is a high melting point hydrogenated castor oil obtained by the full hydrogenation of natural castor oil. The commercial product is offered under the name KahlWax 2178 Castor and is identified as Hydrogenated Castor Oil in the cosmetic INCI system.
Castor oil, the starting ingredient, is a vegetable oil obtained from the seeds of Ricinus communis and contains a high percentage of ricinoleic acid in its fatty acid composition. Ricinoleic acid differs from classical vegetable fatty acids in that it carries both a double bond and a hydroxyl group in its carbon chain.
The hydrogenation process saturates the carbon-carbon double bond of ricinoleic acid. As a result of this conversion, 12-hydroxystearic acid derivatives are formed and liquid castor oil turns into a solid structure with a much higher melting point.
KahlWax 2178 is particularly valuable as a wax for building rheology in oil-based systems. KahlWax 2178 forms a solid crystalline network within suitable oils and can thereby increase viscosity, improve shape retention, and reduce oil migration. These properties are important in sticks, balms, pens, and other products that need to maintain their physical integrity during storage and use.
The hydroxyl groups remaining within the hydrogenated fatty acid structure dissociate castor wax from many conventional hydrocarbon waxes. These polar hydroxyl groups contribute to interaction with pigments, fillers, oils, and other formulation components.
KahlWax 2178 chemistry helps explain the strong pigment dispersion and binding performance associated with KahlWax 2178.
The main representative component of KahlWax 2178 is trihydroxystearin.
Trihydroxystearin contains three 12-hydroxystearic acid residues esterified as glycerol and represents the strong wax-like material formed when ricinoleic acid-rich castor oil is fully hydrogenated. The molecular hydroxyl groups remain present after hydrogenation because the hydrogenation process saturates the carbon-carbon double bonds rather than removing hydroxyl functionality.
KahlWax 2178 retains hydroxyl function, which is important for formulation performance.
Hydrogenated Castor Oil can form hydrogen bonds interactions with other polar materials and contribute to the formation of ordered crystalline networks in petroleum phases.
The resulting structural effect allows KahlWax 2178 to function as a simple high-melt filler.
KahlWax 2178 is often combined with lower melting waxes or emollients.
High-melting castor wax provides structural strength, while soft waxes or oils enhance its spreadability, glide, and sensory properties.
The KahlWax 2178 blending strategy enables formulators to achieve the desired balance between hardness and application comfort.
The high melting range of KahlWax 2178 of approximately 85–88 °C is one of the defining technical properties of KahlWax 2178. This melting behavior allows the wax to maintain its product structure at temperatures where low-melting butter and soft waxes are already significantly softened. Therefore, KahlWax 2178 is particularly beneficial when heat stability and stick integrity are important formulation goals.
KahlWax 2178 hardness is approximately 2–6 dmm under supplier-specified test conditions.
This confirms that KahlWax 2178 belongs to the harder part of cosmetic wax materials rather than acting like soft vegetable butter. Therefore, small amounts can have a marked effect on the hardness and structural stability of an anhydrous formulation.
According to the manufacturer's designation of KahlWax 2178, the structure consists mainly of glycerides of 12-hydroxystearic acid. The product is therefore not a single, pure small molecule, but a multicomponent oil derivative that represents the natural triglyceride composition of hydrogenated castor oil.
Because of this chemical structure, it is not accurate to give a single exact molecular formula or molecular weight for KahlWax 2178. To describe the performance of the product, the INCI, melting point, hardness, oil-binding behavior, and commercial specifications are more meaningful.
The common CAS number for Hydrogenated Castor Oil is 8001-78-3 and the EC number is 232-292-2. This ID identifies the hydrogenated castor oil product class.
KahlWax 2178 is hard solid at room temperature. Due to its high melting range, the production of formulations often requires heating the oil phase to a sufficient temperature and melting the wax completely.
Production without complete melting may create crystalline particles or inhomogeneous structure. For this reason, it is important to adjust the process temperature according to the highest melting point wax component used, especially in stick and pigmented anhydrous systems.
KahlWax 2178 recrystallizes during cooling, forming a three-dimensional solid structure within the formulation. Liquid oils are trapped within this crystalline network, and thus the liquid oil mixture can be converted into a solid or semi-solid product.
COMMON PRODUCT AND CHEMICAL NAMES
KahlWax 2178
KahlWax 2178 Castor
Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Castor Wax
CAS 8001-78-3
EC 232-292-2
INCI: Hydrogenated Castor Oil
CAS NO, EC / EINECS NO AND CHEMICAL IDENTIFICATION
Product Name: KahlWax 2178
Full trade name: KahlWax 2178 Castor
INCI name: Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Turkish general name: Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Common name: Castor Wax
CAS No: 8001-78-3
EC/EINECS No: 232-292-2
Chemical class: Hydrogenated vegetable oil / high melting point triglyceride wax
Starting ingredient: Natural castor oil
Production method: Full hydrogenation
Major chemical structure: glycerides of 12-hydroxystearic acid
Single molecular formula: Not defined
Single molecular weight: Not defined
Physical form: Light-colored hard wax
Melting point: 85–88 °C
Hardness: 2–6 dmm
Recommended use level: 1–10%
Its main functions: Oil binder/thickener, stabilizer and viscosity regulator
Additional highlight: High pigment dispersion performance
CHEMICAL STRUCTURE AND MOLECULAR PROPERTIES OF KAHLWAX 2178
The basis of the chemical structure of KahlWax 2178 is hydrogenated castor oil triglycerides. Ricinoleic acid, the characteristic fatty acid of castor oil, is converted to 12-hydroxystearic acid during hydrogenation.
Saturating the carbon-carbon double bond present in ricinoleic acid with hydrogen significantly increases the chain regularity and crystallization ability of the molecule.
This structural change is the main reason why liquid castor oil turns into a hard wax-like solid. Saturated chains can approach each other more regularly and form stronger crystal structure.
However, the hydroxyl group remains in the structure after hydrogenation. This property of the 12-hydroxystearate segments differentiates KahlWax 2178 from fully nonpolar hydrocarbon waxes. Hydroxyl groups may contribute to hydrogen bonding interactions between molecules. These interactions may play a role in high crystal strength, hardness, and oil-phase structuring behavior.
KahlWax 2178 consists largely of triglycerides formed by glycerol with 12-hydroxystearic acid and other saturated fatty acids. Therefore, it is not a polymer and chemically does not fall into the classical paraffin wax class. It is structurally hydrogenated natural triglyceride wax. Its high melting point can be used to increase the resistance of the oil phase against temperature. Especially in formulations where low melting point oils and esters are predominant, even a small amount of high melting wax can have a significant effect on the structure.
KahlWax 2178 forms crystals during cooling. These crystals can help reduce the run-off of anhydrous systems or oil regurgitation by limiting the movement of liquid emollients.
The crystal structure is also important in pigmented systems. When pigments are properly wetted in the oil phase, the binding structure of KahlWax 2178 can contribute to maintaining the dispersion of particles.
The manufacturer's definition of "excellent pigment dispersing properties" is particularly noteworthy in color cosmetics. For products with a high pigment load, such as lipsticks and stick foundations, color uniformity, mechanical strength and release must be optimized at the same time.
PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF KAHLWAX 2178
KahlWax 2178 is a light-colored, hard, and high-melting hydrogenated castor oil wax. The manufacturer positions this product in the category of specialty waxes/hydrogenated oils.
General technical specifications:
Physical appearance: Light-colored hard wax
INCI: Hydrogenated Castor Oil
CAS No: 8001-78-3
EC/EINECS No: 232-292-2
Chemical character: Fully hydrogenated castor oil
Main structural components: glycerides of 12-hydroxystearic acid
Melting point: 85–88 °C
Hardness: 2–6 dmm
Recommended use level: 1–10%
Form at room temperature: Solid
Solubility in water: Practically insoluble
Behavior in oil phase: Melts when heated and can be formulated with suitable oil phases
Volatility: Very low
Ionic character: Non-ionic lipid structure
Manufacturer performance class: Oil binder/thickener
Manufacturer performance class: Stabilizer
Manufacturer performance class: Viscosity regulator
Pigment behavior: High pigment dispersion ability
Manufacturer applications: Hair styling
Manufacturer applications: Body care
Manufacturer applications: Lip care
Manufacturer applications: Color cosmetics
Manufacturer applications: Solid cosmetics
Manufacturer applications: Technical applications
KahlWax 2178's melting point of 85–88 °C is noticeably higher than that of many natural soft waxes and butters. This property is especially important in solid cosmetics where high-temperature stability is required.
A hardness value of 2–6 dmm indicates that the product is a very hard wax. In the dmm penetration-based hardness measurement, a lower value generally corresponds to a harder structure.
Since the product is insoluble in water, it must be added to the oil phase under normal conditions. In emulsions, it is expected that the wax is completely melted by increasing the oil phase to a sufficient temperature during production.
The cooling profile can affect the final crystal structure. Too rapid or uncontrolled cooling can create surface, brittleness, or crystal structure variations in lipsticks and stick products.
These values are the general technical characterization of the product. Up-to-date KAHL TDS and batch COA information should be used for commercial acceptance criteria.
HOW DOES KAHLWAX 2178 WORK AT THE MOLECULAR LEVEL?
The basic working mechanism of KahlWax 2178 is based on the crystallization of hydrogenated triglycerides during the cooling of the molten oil phase, forming a physical network.
When KahlWax 2178 melts at production temperature, the molecules become movable in the oil phase. Homogeneous mixture can be formed with other oils, esters, pigments and waxes.
As the temperature drops, high-melting hydrogenated triglycerides begin to crystallize. The crystals grow to form a three-dimensional structure that comes into contact with each other.
A portion of the liquid oils is physically trapped in this crystal network. Thus, the oil phase, which is initially liquid, can be converted into a viscous, semi-solid or completely solid product.
This physical structure-forming property is the basis of KahlWax 2178's oil-binding and thickening function.
In emulsions, the mechanical strength of the crystalline oil phase may increase. This may contribute to formulation stability by limiting droplet movement and phase separation.
For lipstick or stick products, the crystal mesh ensures that the product supports its own weight and maintains its shape once it comes out of the mold.
The high melting point can help maintain the crystal web for a longer period of time when the temperature rises. Therefore, the product can play an indirect role in improving heat stability.
In pigmented systems, the polar hydroxylated lipid structure of KahlWax 2178 can help to create appropriate interactions between pigment surfaces and the oil phase.
When pigments are more evenly distributed, color strength, uniformity, and surface appearance can be improved. Reducing agglomeration can also help reduce streaking or color unevenness during application.
The main functions of KahlWax 2178 at the molecular and formulation level are:
Configuring the oil phase
Connecting oils within the physical network
Increasing viscosity
Solidifying anhydrous systems
Improving stick hardness
Supporting high temperature resistance
Strengthening the emulsion structure
Contributing to formulation stability
Supporting pigment dispersion
To help the homogeneous distribution of pigments
Increasing the mechanical strength of lipsticks and sticks
Helping to reduce fat vomiting
Regulating the structure of putty and balm
Creating a body in hair styling waxes
Maintaining the form of solid cosmetics
IN WHICH SECTORS IS KAHLWAX 2178 USED?
KahlWax 2178 is used as a high-melting wax that provides structuring, thickening, and stabilization, especially in the cosmetics and personal care industry. The manufacturer also classifies the product as suitable for technical applications.
Main areas of use:
Lipsticks
Lip balm
Lip sticks
Lip liner products
Foundation sticks
Concealer sticks
Contour stick products
Blush stick products
Highlighter stick products
Eyeliners
Eyebrow pencils
Mascara type balm systems
Cream color cosmetics
Pigment pastes
Waterless foundation systems
Hair styling waxes
Hair pomades
Solid hair stylers
Body balm
Body butter bar
Massage bars
Solid humidifiers
Solid cosmetics
Ointment-like systems
Waterless care products
Emulsions
Creams
Pastes
Oleojels
Technical wax applications
Pigment dispersions
Oil phase configuration systems
The main applications of KahlWax 2178 specified by the manufacturer are hair styling, bath & body, lip care, color cosmetic, solid cosmetic and industrial application groups.
In color cosmetics, high melting point and pigment dispersion performance gain importance together. Lip and stick products are among the most prominent application areas of KahlWax 2178.
In hair styling products, the product does not work like a film-forming polymer; it acts as a lipid structurer, giving hardness, body and viscosity to the oil-based wax or pomade structure.
LIP, STICK, COLOR COSMETICS AND PIGMENT APPLICATIONS OF KAHLWAX 2178
Lip and color cosmetic systems are important application areas where the technical properties of KahlWax 2178 can be directly evaluated.
The possible functions of KahlWax 2178 in color cosmetics applications are:
Hardening the lipstick structure
Making it easier for lipstick to come out of the mold
Supporting the preservation of the stick form
Reducing softening at high temperature
Assisting in pigment dispersion
Contributing to reducing pigment agglomeration
Connecting the oil phase
Helping to reduce oil vomiting in lipstick
Improving foundation stick structure
Adjusting the hardness of the concealer stick
Increasing mechanical strength in eyeliner
Providing structure in the eyebrow pencil
Helping to optimize product fracture resistance
Increasing the body of putty systems
Regulating the viscosity of anhydrous products
It is common to use more than one wax together in lipstick formulations. KahlWax 2178 can be balanced with lower melting waxes and emollients as a high melting point hard component.
Using too much KahlWax 2178 can make lipstick application difficult. High friction, low color release or product brittleness may occur on the lip surface.
Therefore, hardness is not only the mechanical goal. Pay-off, lubricity, gloss, breaking force and temperature stability must be optimized together.
In pigmented formulations, KahlWax 2178's good pigment dispersion ability as specified by the manufacturer is a significant advantage. Proper prior wetting of the pigment in the carrier oil can further improve performance.
High pigment and filler amounts in foundation sticks can increase the brittleness of the product. Wax mesh can bind particles and contribute to mechanical integrity.
In concealer or contour stick products, very high hardness can make it difficult to apply on the skin. KahlWax 2178 should be balanced with softer waxes and esters.
In eye and eyebrow pencils, the pencil tip must maintain its shape at room temperature but leave a controlled amount of product during application. The ratio of high melting point waxes has a direct effect on this balance.
The lipid structure of KahlWax 2178 with polar hydroxyl function may interact with pigment and mineral surfaces completely differently than hydrocarbon waxes. Therefore, when wax replacement is performed in the pigmented formulation, the color and rheology must be retested.
USE OF KAHLWAX 2178 IN EMULSION, WATERLESS CARE, HAIR STYLING AND SOLID COSMETIC APPLICATIONS
KahlWax 2178 can be used in emulsions to give structure to the oil phase. The manufacturer describes the product as a binder and viscosity enhancer in emulsions.
Crystal wax mesh can improve the mechanical strength of the oil phase and contribute to the overall viscosity of the emulsion.
This property can be especially useful in thick creams, balms-creams and body care products with a high oil phase.
KahlWax 2178 should not be used as a substitute for the classical emulsifier. For the long-term stable mixture of water and oil phases, the suitable primary emulsifier or emulsifier system is also required.
In anhydrous balm systems, KahlWax 2178 can directly configure the oil phase. By changing the product level, different textures can be developed, from balm consistency to hard stick structure.
In solid body care products, it may be important to maintain shape in a hot environment. A melting range of 85–88 °C can be used to improve the heat resistance of this type of product.
In hair styling waxes and pomades, the product hardens the mixture of oil and other waxes. Here, retention may be due to the balm-like mechanical structure formed by the product between the hair strands rather than the polymer film.
Too high a KahlWax 2178 level can make it difficult to remove the hair wax product from the box and spread it over the hair. Balancing with soft emollients and low melting waxes may be required.
In ointment and paste-like systems, the product can form a physical network that will reduce the separation of liquid oil. This structure is especially important in anhydrous formulations with a high oil load.
The same oil binding and rheology formation mechanism can be used in technical applications. However, for exact industrial application, the supplier's technical compatibility information should be verified separately.
IS KAHLWAX 2178 USED IN FOOD, COSMETICS AND PHARMACEUTICAL APPLICATIONS?
KahlWax 2178 is a commercial grade of Hydrogenated Castor Oil mainly for cosmetic, personal care and technical applications.
The use of cosmetics is the main application area of the product. KAHL recommends the product directly for hair styling, bath & body, lip care, color cosmetics and solid cosmetics.
The name INCI is Hydrogenated Castor Oil. For this reason, the name INCI in accordance with the relevant legislation should be used instead of the commercial name KahlWax in cosmetic product labeling.
Hydrogenated Castor Oil can be associated with various functions in cosmetic data sources, such as skincare, emollient, viscosity regulation, emulsifying surfactant, and cleansing surfactant. However, the functions that the manufacturer of KahlWax 2178 highlights for the product are oil binding/thickening, stabilization, and viscosity regulation.
Hydrogenated Castor Oil is also a known class of excipients in pharmaceutical technology, and special grades with pharmacopoeia standards can be found.
However, KahlWax 2178 should not be assumed to be pharmaceutical grade solely by looking at its INCI ID. Compliance with the relevant pharmacopoeia monograph, production conditions, and required quality documentation for drug production should be further verified.
The same approach applies to food applications. KahlWax 2178 is not positioned by the manufacturer as a direct food additive in the documents reviewed here.
If food or food contact application is considered, a usage claim should not be made without checking the exact regulatory compliance of the product and supplier statements.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS OF KAHLWAX 2178
KahlWax 2178 can be used as a physical structurant in cosmetic and technical formulations due to its high melting point hydrogenated triglyceride structure.
The following functions may be prominent in industrial KahlWax 2178 applications:
Fat binding
Configuring the oil phase
Thickening
Viscosity regulation
Crystal networking
Supporting emulsion stabilization
Non-aqueous system stabilization
Creating a paste consistency
Increasing stick hardness
Creating a solid cosmetic structure
Supporting temperature resistance
Improving pigment dispersion
Helping to keep pigments in the oil phase
Lipstick production
Foundation stick production
Concealer stick production
Production of lip balm
Production of hair wax and pomade
Production of solid body care products
Structuring pigment pastes
Thickening of technical oil systems
The level of use of KahlWax 2178 may have a significant impact on the physical behavior of the product. KAHL gives a general range of use as 1–10%.
Lower levels, such as 1–3% in emulsions, can be considered as a laboratory starting point for viscosity and oil phase configuration.
Higher levels may be required in stick and anhydrous systems. However, these values are not fixed commercial recipes, but an initial approach to formula development.
The total wax ratio is not only the amount of KahlWax 2178. The total crystalline phase should be evaluated together with carnauba, candelilla, beeswax, rice wax and other structurers.
The type of emollient used also changes the hardness. The different dissolution of polar esters or hydrocarbon oils in the same wax can affect crystallization behavior.
The cooling profile is particularly critical in stick products. Once the formula is fully melted, the filling temperature and cooling conditions can alter crystal size and surface appearance.
The following issues should be evaluated when using KahlWax 2178 in industrial systems:
Product ID
PEARL
Melting point
Hardness
Color
Particle or supply form
Total wax level
Other types of waxes
Oil phase polarity
Emollient system
Pigment type
Pigment load
Pigment wetting agent
Formulation melting temperature
Filling temperature
Cooling speed
Stick breaking force
Penetration hardness
Pay-off
Release behavior
Fat vomiting
Syneresis
Heat stability
Pigment dispersion
Emulsion viscosity
Storage stability
TDS
SDS
COA
WHAT PROBLEMS CAN KAHLWAX 2178 SOLVE?
KahlWax 2178 can help solve technical problems such as insufficient hardness, high temperature softening, oil separation, low viscosity and pigment dispersion, especially in oil-based and solid cosmetic systems.
Lipstick softening in a hot environment
Low melting point waxes and lipsticks with a predominance of oils may lose their mechanical strength when the temperature rises. The melting range of 85–88 °C of KahlWax 2178 can support the high temperature resistance of the total wax system.
Deformation of the stick product when removing it from the mold
Insufficient crystalline mesh stick may cause the product to warp or distort its surface when exiting the mold. KahlWax 2178 can contribute to form stability by increasing hardness.
Vomiting oil in lipstick or balm
When the crystal network cannot adequately retain liquid emollients, oil droplets can be seen on the surface. KahlWax 2178 can help to physically retain the liquid phase with its oil-binding capacity.
Inhomogeneous distribution of pigments
Pigment agglomeration can produce color irregularity and poor surface appearance. KAHL reports particularly good pigment dispersion performance for KahlWax 2178.
Insufficient body in pigment cake
In oil-based pastes with high pigment, low viscosity may lead to precipitation or segregation. KahlWax 2178 can contribute to the physical stability of the dispersion by structuring the oil phase.
Too fluid emulsion
Increasing the crystal structure in the oil phase can raise the emulsion viscosity. KahlWax 2178 can be considered as an auxiliary oil phase structurant at low levels.
Solid cosmetics lose their form in temperature test
Formulations with a predominance of soft waxes may show deformation in 40–45 °C stability tests. High melting point KahlWax 2178 may contribute to improving this behavior.
Hair pomade is too soft in the box
In pomades with high oil load, the product may be more fluid than desired. KahlWax 2178 can form a body with its hard and high melting point structure.
Excessive fragility of the stick product
In this case, increasing KahlWax 2178 is not always the right solution. Since the product is already a very hard wax, soft wax, emollient or total crystal structure must be rebalanced in brittleness problems.
Low product release of lipstick on the lips
Very high hardness can reduce the pay-off. In such a case, the amount of KahlWax 2178 may need to be reduced or balanced with softer waxes.
Not every structure and stability problem can be solved by changing the amount of KahlWax 2178 alone. The total wax system, emollient structure, pigment load and process conditions should be examined together.
THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN USING KAHLWAX 2178
High melting point, total wax balance and cooling conditions are the main technical issues in the use of KahlWax 2178.
The following issues should be considered when using KahlWax 2178:
Product identity must be verified.
KahlWax 2178 Castor quality should be checked.
INCI must be verified.
The melting point should be checked.
The hardness value should be evaluated.
The color must be checked.
The recommended level of use should be considered.
The total amount of wax should be calculated.
Other hard waxes should be considered.
The level of soft wax should be evaluated.
The emollient system should be examined.
Oil phase polarity should be taken into account.
The pigment type should be checked.
The amount of pigment must be taken into account.
The wax must be completely melted.
The production temperature should be controlled.
Holding at high temperatures for an excessively long time should be avoided.
The filling temperature should be optimized.
The cooling profile should be checked.
Stick hardness should be measured.
Fracture resistance should be evaluated.
Pay-off should be checked.
Oil vomiting should be monitored.
Heat stability should be tested.
Pigment dispersion should be evaluated.
TDS should be examined.
SDS should be examined.
Batch specifications must be verified via COA.
Since KahlWax 2178 has a high melting point, sufficient process temperature is required to ensure that all phases of the formulation become homogeneous. However, prolonged exposure to unnecessarily high temperature can affect the stability of oil, pigment, or sensitive actives.
Heat-sensitive perfume, antioxidant or active ingredients should in most cases be added at the appropriate temperature during the cooling phase.
When replacing KahlWax 2178 with another wax, only the melting point comparison should not be made. Hardness, polarity, crystal morphology, and oil-binding ability may also be different.
INITIAL FORMULATION APPROACHES FOR KAHLWAX 2178
The following examples are laboratory initial approaches designed to illustrate how KahlWax 2178 can be evaluated during formulation development. These are not validated commercial recipes or final formulas that can be transferred directly to production.
The general usage range given by KAHL for KahlWax 2178 is 1–10%. Trial levels should be selected within this range according to the target product type.
EXAMPLE 1: LIPSTICK / COLOR STICK HARDNESS SCANNING WITH KAHLWAX 2178
Objective: To compare the effect of KahlWax 2178 level on stick hardness, fracture resistance, temperature resistance, pay-off, and pigment homogeneity.
Starting components:
KahlWax 2178: 6%
Second wax of soft or medium hardness: 8%
Liquid emollient system: 60.8%
Pigment mixture: 20%
Pigment wetting agent: 5%
Antioxidant: 0.1%
Perfume/aroma: 0.1%
Total: 100%
Starting approach:
KahlWax 2178 can be screened at 2% / 4% / 6% / 8% levels, for example.
The second wax rate is mutually adjusted as necessary to keep the total wax rate as controlled as possible.
Application approach:
The pigments are pre-dispersed in the carrier oil.
The waxes and the emollient phase are heated to the appropriate temperature.
KahlWax 2178 is completely melted.
The pigment dispersion is added to the hot oil phase.
Homogenization is ensured.
The mixture is filled into molds at a controlled temperature.
Samples are prepared under the same cooling conditions.
Stick hardness is measured.
The breaking force is compared.
Pay-off is evaluated.
Ploughing is observed on the lip or suitable substrate.
An accelerated stability test of 40–45 °C is applied.
Oil vomiting and surface change are monitored.
EXAMPLE 2: PIGMENT DISPERSION AND CONCEALER STICK SCANNING WITH KAHLWAX 2178
Purpose: To evaluate the effect of KahlWax 2178 on dispersion, viscosity and stick integrity in a highly pigmented anhydrous system.
Starting components:
Pigment mixture: 25%
Dispersion oil: 25%
KahlWax 2178: 6%
Other waxes: 12%
Emollient esters: 27%
Fillers: 5%
Total: 100%
Application approach:
The pigments are ground in the oil phase in a controlled manner or dispersed in high shear.
The initial viscosity of the pigment dispersion is measured.
KahlWax 2178 and other waxes are completely melted in separate phase.
The pigment dispersion is combined with the molten wax phase.
Homogeneity is checked.
It is filled into stick molds at the same temperature.
Cooling conditions are kept constant.
Color homogeneity is evaluated.
Pigment agglomeration is controlled.
Stick hardness is measured.
Release and coverage are evaluated on the skin.
Oil separation and temperature resistance are monitored.
EXAMPLE 3: EMULSION / DENSE CREAM VISCOSITY SCREENING WITH KAHLWAX 2178
Purpose: To compare the effect of using low levels of KahlWax 2178 on emulsion viscosity and storage stability.
Starting components:
Water phase: 73.8%
Main emulsifier system: 5%
Liquid emollients: 15%
KahlWax 2178: 2%
Thickening auxiliary lipid: 3%
Protective system: 1%
pH system: 0.2%
Total: 100%
Application approach:
The water and oil phases are prepared separately.
KahlWax 2178 is completely melted in the oil phase.
Each sample is prepared at the same emulsification temperature.
The mixing speed and time are kept constant.
The cooling profile is applied the same.
After 24 hours, the viscosity is measured.
After a week, the viscosity is measured again.
Centrifugation or appropriate accelerated stability testing is applied.
Phase separation is checked.
High and low temperature stability is evaluated.
The change in texture and skin sensation is compared.
ALTERNATIVES AND COMPARISON OF KAHLWAX 2178
When selecting the alternative for KahlWax 2178, the melting point of wax alone should not be considered. Hardness, crystal structure, polarity, pigment behavior, source, and final product feel should be considered together.
KAHLWAX 2178 AND CARNAUBA WAX
Carnauba Wax is one of the natural vegetable waxes with a high melting point and very hard. It is used to provide hardness and shine in lipstick, stick and polishing applications.
KahlWax 2178 is also a hard product with a high melting point, but it is chemically hydrogenated triglyceride.
Carnauba wax contains esters, long-chain alcohols, and different wax components, while KahlWax 2178 is mainly composed of hydrogenated castor oil glycerides.
Although the two products can increase stick hardness, their crystallization, release, and pigment behavior are not the same.
Laboratory testing should be performed without direct one-to-one substitution.
KAHLWAX 2178 AND CANDELILLA WAX
Candelilla Wax is a hard wax of natural vegetable origin and can provide structure in lipsticks, lip balms and stick products.
Its melting point is generally lower than that of KahlWax 2178. Therefore, its effect on temperature resistance and hardness may be different.
Candelilla wax may show different character in film and gloss behavior, while KahlWax 2178's pigment dispersion and high melting point may stand out.
The two products can also be used together. Thus, the balance of hardness, gloss and release can be adjusted.
KAHLWAX 2178 AND BEESWAX
Beeswax has a lower melting point and softer structure than KahlWax 2178.
It is commonly used in lipstick, balm, and cream systems to provide body, plastic structure, and skin feel.
KahlWax 2178 can provide higher temperature resistance and hardness. Beeswax, on the other hand, can create more plastic and less brittle structure.
For this reason, two waxes can often be considered as complementary components rather than direct alternatives.
When developing vegan products, it may also be important to choose vegetable/hydrogenated alternatives instead of beeswax.
KAHLWAX 2178 AND RICE BRAN WAX
Rice Bran Wax is a hard vegetable wax with a high melting point. KAHL's KahlWax 2811 Rice shows a melting point of 75–80 °C, for example, and a hardness of about 2 dmm.
The melting range of KahlWax 2178 is higher at 85–88 °C.
While rice wax can provide a dry and light skin feel in products, KahlWax 2178's strong pigment dispersion and oil-binding properties may offer different advantages.
Both products can be evaluated in stick systems that require high temperature resistance, but the feel and crystal structure are different.
KAHLWAX 2178 AND HYDROGENATED RAPESEED OIL
Hydrogenated Rapeseed Oil can be a hydrogen vegetable oil wax with a lower melting point and much softer.
KAHL's KahlWax 6237 Rapeseed has a melting point of 36–39 °C and a hardness value of approximately 120 dmm.
KahlWax 2178, on the other hand, is noticeably harder and has a higher melting point with values of 85–88 °C and 2–6 dmm.
Hydrogenated Rapeseed Oil can be used to achieve creamy and butter-like structure, while KahlWax 2178 is more suitable for strong structure and temperature resistance.
By using the two products together, a balance can be established between hardness and creaminess.
QUALITY CONTROL AND PURCHASING CRITERIA FOR KAHLWAX 2178
When purchasing KahlWax 2178, it is important to verify the commercial product identity and physical properties. It should not be assumed that all generic Hydrogenated Castor Oil products will provide the same performance as KahlWax 2178.
Recommended information to review before purchasing:
Full commercial product name
Manufacturer
PEARL
CAS number
EC/EINECS number
Raw material source
Degree of hydrogenation
Melting point
Hardness
Color
Outlook
Particle or supply form
Acid value
Saponification value
Hydroxyl value
Iodine value
Moisture content
Ash or mineral impurities
Heavy metal limits, if required
Cosmetic quality certificates
Natural cosmetics suitability information
Vegan declaration
Shelf life
Storage conditions
Packaging Type
Net quantity
Production date
Batch number
Information of origin
TDS
SDS
COA
REACH information
Cosmetic legislation documents
The COA should show the actual analysis results of the specific batch of KahlWax 2178. The melting point and the relevant chemical quality parameters according to the application can be evaluated for batch consistency.
TDS defines the recommended usage level, technical functions and basic features of the product. SDS provides the necessary information for safe use and storage.
Melting point is a critical parameter in stick production. Significant deviation from specification can affect filling temperature, crystallization, and the heat stability of the end product.
Color is especially important in white or light-colored cosmetics. The color difference in the raw material can be carried over to the final formulation.
Products purchased from different suppliers under the general name of Hydrogenated Castor Oil may vary in terms of crystal structure or chemical quality. It is useful to perform a comparative test on the same formulation when changing suppliers.
STORAGE AND HANDLING OF KAHLWAX 2178
Storage: KahlWax 2178 should be stored in dry, clean, and appropriate packaging. The product should be protected from foreign matter, moisture, odor, and other raw material contamination.
Temperature: In normal storage, the product is in solid form. Unnecessarily high temperature storage should not be applied for a long time and the manufacturer's current storage recommendations should be followed.
Odor control: Cosmetic waxes should be kept separate from strong-smelling substances in the environment. In lip and color cosmetics, unwanted odor can affect raw material acceptance.
Contamination: Cross-contamination with pigments, metals, other waxes or oils should be avoided. Raw material cleanliness is especially important in the production of light-colored cosmetics.
Transfer: Dust or small particle formation should be controlled as much as possible in solid product transfer. If transfer is to be made in molten state, hot surface and burn risks should be taken into account.
Packaging: The type and quantity of commercial packaging should be verified from the manufacturer's or supplier's document.
Transportation: The transportation classification should be checked on the current SDS document of KahlWax 2178. General Hydrogenated Castor Oil information should not be used in place of the exact commercial product SDS.
KAHLWAX 2178 SAFETY INFORMATION
KahlWax 2178 is a solid hydrogenated castor oil wax consisting of high molecular weight triglycerides. It shows low volatility in normal cosmetic raw material use.
The processing of the solid product should follow normal industrial hygiene rules and use appropriate protection against eye or unnecessary prolonged skin contact.
The main additional risk in processes where the product is melted is thermal burn, which may occur as a result of contact with molten wax at high temperatures. Proper process safety must be ensured in heated tanks, pipes and filling equipment.
In special processes where dust or fine particles are generated, airborne particle exposure should be evaluated separately.
For safe use, fire, spillage, personal protective equipment and disposal conditions, the current SDS document of KahlWax 2178 should be taken as basis.
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING KAHLWAX 2178?
When purchasing KahlWax 2178, first of all, it should be determined in which product group and for what performance purpose the raw material will be used. The performance required for lipstick hardness is not the same as the level of use required to increase cream viscosity.
Specifying the exact KahlWax 2178 / KahlWax 2178 Castor commercial grade requirement in the order instead of just writing Hydrogenated Castor Oil reduces product confusion.
The following information should be clarified before purchasing:
Use sector
Final product type
Lipstick or lip care application
Application of color cosmetics
Emulsion application
Hair styling application
Application of solid cosmetics
KahlWax 2178 commercial quality requirement
INCI requirement
Melting point range
Hardness requirement
Color requirement
Pigment dispersion expectation
Cosmetic legislation documents
The necessity of natural cosmetic suitability
Vegan product requirement
Manufacturer information
Information of origin
Packaging type
Estimated order quantity
Shelf life
The need for TDS
The need for SDS
The need for COA
If the existing product is to be substituted, the existing TDS and COA
The price of KahlWax 2178 should not be judged solely by the general market price of Hydrogenated Castor Oil. Commercial quality, manufacturer, hardness and melt specification, cosmetic documentation, quantity, and logistical conditions can influence the total purchase decision.
If an alternative castor wax product is to be used, having the same INCI does not provide a one-to-one performance guarantee. Application tests must be performed on stick and pigmented systems.
SUPPLY OF KAHWAX 2178 FROM ATAMAN KIMYA
KahlWax 2178; It is a high melting point Hydrogenated Castor Oil based special wax that can be used in lipstick, lip care product, color cosmetics, solid cosmetics, hair styling, emulsion and different anhydrous systems.
Companies that want to get information about the supply of KahlWax 2178 from Ataman Kimya can request information about product suitability, current supply conditions, packaging options and price offer by sharing their usage areas and target technical specifications.
The current stock status, manufacturer, origin, exact trade quality name, melting point, hardness, packaging and other technical specifications of the product should be confirmed from Ataman Kimya before ordering.
Sharing the following information in the request for quotation makes it easier to evaluate the right KahlWax 2178 product:
Use sector and end application
Lipstick, stick, cream, balm or hair styling usage information
Target utilization rate
Melting point requirement
Hardness requirement
Pigment dispersion expectation
Color requirement
The need for natural cosmetics documentation
Vegan declaration requirement
Estimated order quantity
Type of packaging requested
Requested technical documents
TDS or COA information of the current product, if applicable
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT KAHLWAX 2178
What is KahlWax 2178?
KahlWax 2178 is a hard and high melting point Hydrogenated Castor Oil based cosmetic wax obtained as a result of full hydrogenation of natural castor oil.
What is the full product name of KahlWax 2178?
It appears in KAHL product documentation under the name KahlWax 2178 Castor.
What is the INCI name of KahlWax 2178?
The name of INCI is Hydrogenated Castor Oil.
What is the CAS number of KahlWax 2178?
The CAS No for Hydrogenated Castor Oil is 8001-78-3.
What is the EC number of KahlWax 2178?
EC/EINECS No is 232-292-2.
What raw material is KahlWax 2178 made of?
It is produced by full hydrogenation of natural castor oil.
What is the basic chemical structure of KahlWax 2178?
It is a hydrogenated triglyceride structure consisting mainly of glycerides of 12-hydroxystearic acid.
What is the molecular formula of KahlWax 2178?
It does not have a single molecular formula because it is a mixture of various hydrogenated triglycerides of natural origin.
What is the molecular weight of KahlWax 2178?
No single exact molecular weight is defined.
What is the melting point of KahlWax 2178?
KAHL is 85–88 °C according to current product information.
What is the hardness of KahlWax 2178?
The manufacturer gives a hardness value of 2–6 dmm.
What is the recommended usage rate for KahlWax 2178?
It is generally recommended by KAHL at 1–10%.
Is KahlWax 2178 used in lipstick?
Lip care and color cosmetics are the main application areas specified by the manufacturer.
Is KahlWax 2178 used in lip balm?
It can be used to support the hardness of the balm and its shape at high temperatures.
Can KahlWax 2178 be used on foundation stick?
It can be considered as a wax that supports structuring and pigment dispersion in color and solid cosmetics.
Does KahlWax 2178 help pigment dispersion?
KAHL specifically mentions the good pigment dispersion properties of the product.
Is KahlWax 2178 used in emulsions?
The manufacturer indicates its use as a binder and viscosity enhancer in emulsions.
Is KahlWax 2178 an emulsifier?
Its main commercial function is not to be a primary emulsifier. It should be considered as wax that structures the oil phase in the emulsion and supports stability.
Is KahlWax 2178 a thickener?
KAHL describes the product as a fat binder/thickener and viscosity regulator.
Is KahlWax 2178 a stabilizer?
The stabilizer function is specified by the manufacturer.
Is KahlWax 2178 used in hair products?
KAHL shows hair styling among the recommended application areas.
Is KahlWax 2178 hairspray a film former?
It works like a lipid builder in hair styling waxes and pomades; not to be confused with polymeric film formers such as PVP/VA.
Is KahlWax 2178 vegan?
In KAHL's current product portfolio, the product is marked as vegan.
Is KahlWax 2178 suitable for natural cosmetics?
In KAHL's current product portfolio, it is marked as suitable for natural cosmetics. The current document should be checked separately for specific certification or compliance with the target standard.
Is KahlWax 2178 the same as Castor Oil?
Castor Oil is liquid castor oil; KahlWax 2178 is a hard solid wax obtained as a result of full hydrogenation of castor oil.
Is KahlWax 2178 the same as PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil?
PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is an ethoxylated surfactant/solubilizing derivative. KahlWax 2178 is a non-ethoxylated high melting point Hydrogenated Castor Oil.
Is KahlWax 2178 the same as KahlBeads 2178P?
The INCI of both can be Hydrogenated Castor Oil, but KahlBeads 2178P is a controlled particle size exfoliating beads product; KahlWax 2178 is wax and structuring raw material.
Can KahlWax 2178 reduce oil vomiting?
It can help retain liquid oils by forming a crystalline network in the appropriate formulation, reducing the risk of oil vomiting.
Does KahlWax 2178 increase product hardness?
Since it is a high melting point and hard wax, it can increase the hardness of stick and anhydrous systems.
What can happen if KahlWax 2178 is used too much?
Overuse can create high hardness, low pay-off, poor release or brittle structure.
Can KahlWax 2178 be used instead of Carnauba Wax?
While both are hard and have a high melting point, their chemical structure and formulation behavior are different. Laboratory testing is required without exact substitution.
Can KahlWax 2178 be used as a substitute for Beeswax?
Direct one-to-one substitution is not recommended. Beeswax has a lower melting point and is more plastic in structure.
Is KahlWax 2178 soluble in water?
It is practically insoluble in water and is processed in the oil phase in the normal formulation.
How is KahlWax 2178 added to the formulation?
It is usually added to the oil phase to be completely melted at sufficient temperature and homogenized with other oil phase components.
What properties are important when buying KahlWax 2178?
Exact trade product ID, INCI, melting point, hardness, color, technical quality and cosmetic documents are important parameters.
What documents should be required for KahlWax 2178?
TDS, SDS, and COA are essential documents. Declarations of suitability, natural cosmetics, or vegan required for cosmetic use may also be requested based on the application.
How should KahlWax 2178 be stored?
It should be stored in dry, clean and closed packages under the conditions recommended by the manufacturer, protected from contamination and unnecessarily high temperature.
KAHLWAX 2178 – TECHNICAL ABSTRACT
KahlWax 2178, with the manufacturer's full product name KahlWax 2178 Castor, is a light-colored, hard and high-melting special wax obtained as a result of full hydrogenation of natural castor oil. The cosmetic INCI name is Hydrogenated Castor Oil.
For Hydrogenated Castor Oil, CAS No 8001-78-3 and EC No 232-292-2 are used. The exact molecular formula and molecular weight should not be defined as the product is not a single pure small molecule.
KahlWax 2178 consists largely of glycerides of 12-hydroxystearic acid. Hydrogenation saturates the double bonds in liquid castor oil to form a solid lipid structure that can crystallize more regularly and has a high melting point. According to KAHL's current product information, KahlWax 2178 has a melting point of 85–88 °C, a hardness of 2–6 dmm and a recommended use level of 1–10%. The manufacturer describes the product as a fat binder/thickener, stabilizer and viscosity regulator. He also states high pigment dispersion performance as one of the important technical advantages of KahlWax 2178.
KahlWax 2178 can be used in hair styling, body care, lip care, color cosmetics, solid cosmetics, and technical applications. It can help control hardness and pigment behavior together, especially in lipsticks, balms, foundation sticks, and pigmented waterless products.
The crystalline network formed by the product during cooling in the oil phase ensures the physical retention of liquid emollients. This mechanism can contribute to increasing viscosity, maintaining stick form, reducing oil regurgitation and improving temperature resistance.
Due to its high hardness, KahlWax 2178 is not a raw material that provides better performance the more it is used alone. Excessive use may reduce pay-off, make it difficult to apply or create brittleness; a balance must be established with other waxes and emollients.
In KAHL's 2025 product portfolio, KahlWax 2178 is marked as suitable for vegan and natural cosmetic formulations. If compliance with a specific certification or target standard is required, current manufacturer documentation must be verified separately.
Companies planning to procure KahlWax 2178 from Ataman Kimya are recommended to confirm the current product and offer conditions by sharing the final application, target usage level, melting and hardness requirements, pigment performance, packaging quantity and technical document needs.
