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Ingredient deep-dive

Carnauba Wax: Is It a Microplastic?

Not a microplasticCleared / not a microplastic

Not a microplastic. A plant wax from palm leaves, the hardest natural wax available, and the main structural alternative to synthetic polymer waxes in sticks and balms.

Where it appears

  • Lipstick and balm structure
  • Mascara
  • Stick foundations
  • Nail products

Regulatory status (2026)

European Union

Permitted; natural wax.

United States

Permitted.

Cleaner alternatives

  • No swap needed

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Carnauba Wax, common questions

Is Carnauba Wax a microplastic?

Borderline. Not a microplastic. A plant wax from palm leaves, the hardest natural wax available, and the main structural alternative to synthetic polymer waxes in sticks and balms.

Is Carnauba Wax banned?

EU: Permitted; natural wax. US: Permitted.

What can I use instead of Carnauba Wax?

Cleaner alternatives include: No swap needed.

What products contain Carnauba Wax?

Commonly found in: Lipstick and balm structure; Mascara; Stick foundations; Nail products.

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