Common Name(s): Barley wax,hordeum vulgare grain wax,barleycera
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Provides natural, grain-derived waxy emolliency and texture to cosmetic formulas.
Why It's Used: Barley grain wax contains very long chain fatty acids, fatty alcohols, and sterols (beta-sitosterol, stigmasterol) typical of cereal grain surface waxes; provides natural conditioning and structure.
How It Works: Very long chain fatty acids and alcohols (c24-c30) in barley grain wax form a protective occlusive film; phytosterols contribute skin barrier support; cereal wax has lower melting point than carnauba, providing softer texture.
Typically Found In: Natural lip products,grain-derived skin care,natural wax blends,organic formulations
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Functional ingredient – emollient
Secondary Functions: Viscosity controlling,film forming,skin conditioning
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.5%–10%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Yes
Halal Status: Yes
Source Notes: Extracted from hordeum vulgare (barley) grain; natural grain wax; plant origin.
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 1/5 – low
Sensitivity Concerns: Generally well tolerated.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Good safety profile. ewg score: 1.
Works Well With: Carnauba wax,candelilla wax,other natural waxes,emollients
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Cereal grain waxes (barley, wheat, rice bran) are increasingly used as sustainable alternatives to carnauba and candelilla wax; barley wax has a lower melting point (~65-70°c vs carnauba ~85°c) providing softer, more spreadable texture in lip products.
Last Verified: 2026-03-28
Primary Sources: Cosing database,inci dictionary