Beauty & personal care

Vegan alternative to beeswax

Short answer

Candelilla wax is the best all-round replacement for beeswaxbalms and salves. Candelilla is harder: use about half the beeswax weight.

Why beeswax isn't vegan

Produced by honeybees.

Best vegan substitutes

SubstituteBest for
Candelilla waxBalms and salves
Carnauba waxFirm sticks and polish
Soy waxCandles

Conversion ratio

Candelilla is harder: use about half the beeswax weight.

Pro tip

Candelilla sets firmer, so lip balms need a touch more oil to stay spreadable.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best vegan alternative to beeswax?
Candelilla wax is the closest all-round swap — balms and salves. Candelilla is harder: use about half the beeswax weight.
Why isn't beeswax vegan?
Produced by honeybees.
How much do I use instead of beeswax?
Candelilla is harder: use about half the beeswax weight.
Any tips for getting it right?
Candelilla sets firmer, so lip balms need a touch more oil to stay spreadable.

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