Cosmetic industry swears by the usefulness of Shellac.
What is Cosmetic-Grade Shellac?
Cosmetic-Grade Shellac is a combination of alicyclic acids and aliphatic hydroxy acids and their polyesters. The concentrations up to 25% are used in cosmetic formulations.
The clinical assessment of cosmetic formulations’ safety containing up to 6% of Shellac demonstrated no measurable irritation. There are zero photo sensitization and sensitivity issues.
Why is shellac used widely in the cosmetic industry?
Shellac has the unique quality to hold together the ingredients of a compressed cake or tablet. Further, it keeps an emulsion from getting separated into the water-soluble and oil-soluble components. Thus, it lets the hair hold the specific style by interfering with the hair’s capability to absorb moisture.
The nature of shellac
- The non-hygroscopic nature of shellac makes it sure that the hair stays well -groomed even in high humidity and rain exposure.
- Shellac’s solubility in alcohol which is a standard cosmetic colvent helps in the smooth formulation.
- Shellac’s solubility in mild alkalis triggers fair removal by shampoos.
- Shellac has a vast array of compatibility with other resins, softeners, and plasticisers that are essential constituents present in hair lacquers.
- Shellac has excellent adhesion properties.
- It provides a moisture barrier and also protection from ultraviolet rays.
- Shellac is hypoallergenic, non-toxic and physiologically safe.
- It is a viscosity controller and a film forming agent.
- It is also classified as an emollient.
Which type of shellac is used in cosmetic industry?
Bleached or decolorized shellac is predominantly used in cosmetic industry.
The safety information about Shellac:
- FDA or the Food and Drug Administration has included Shellac in the indirect food additives’ list. Shellac is utilized as an essential component that comes into food contact.
- The Expert Panel of CIR or Cosmetic Ingredient Review has assessed Shellac’s safety. The evaluation of the scientific data has been done. The conclusion reveals that the cosmetic-grade Shellac is safe for use in personal care and cosmetic products’ formulations. The concentration level is up to 6%.
The Safety Review issued by CIR:
The results drawn from critical testing has delivered no adverse effects after ocular, dermal and respiratory exposure to Shellac. Again, the chronic inhalation exposure to Shellac has not produced any apparent toxicity.
However, the CIR Expert Panel’s interpretation was limited to cosmetic grade and wax-free bleached Shellac.
As per the COSMOS or the COSmetic Organic Standard, Shellac is known to be used widely in natural cosmetics In Europe.
Use of Shellac:
Shellac is a common constituent in the nail varnishing treatments. Shellac nail polish is a brew of radical initiators (Benzoyl Peroxide) and Methacrylate Monomers. When the mixing takes place under UV light, the process of Radical Polymerization takes place. It imparts a glossy finish. It also provides a water-resistant protective seal for enhancing the nail polish’s durability.
Shellac is used as a binder in eyeliners and mascara.
Shellac acts as the micro-encapsulation of perfume oils and fragrances.
Shellac is applied as a glossy coating in hair sprays like pump sprays and aerosols, lacquers, setting lotions and shampoos. The worldwide presence of shellac’s use in the hair lacquer and hairspray industry is primarily due to the precise physical and chemical properties needed by the cosmetic chemists for the formulation of the hair grooming products.
Shellac acts as a natural emulsifier in body emollients and moisturizers.
Shellac wax is a standard ingredient in lip salves, lipsticks, and lip balms.
DM Shellac is a reliable and one of the leading highest-grade shellac manufacturers in India. We specialized in the production of cosmetic-grade decolorized or bleached shellac that passes the purity and edibility test for years. Serving the mankind for more than 50 glorifying years, we are just a call away from your next order.
