Ingredient dictionary

Ozokerite

Also listed as: Earth Wax

A mineral wax mined from earth deposits and purified for cosmetics. It firms up formulas and helps sticks keep their shape. It is on the label of 18 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

The catch: it is grouped with mineral oil and petrolatum, refined petroleum ingredients that seal in moisture well. Some people avoid that family by preference, especially if their skin is acne-prone.

Mineral oil & petrolatum. Paraffinum liquidum, petrolatum and other refined petroleum emollients.

What Ozokerite does

Firms up sticks like eyeliner and lipstick
Raises the melting point of formulas
Adds body and a smooth, even glide

Ozokerite is a naturally occurring wax found in earth deposits. It is mined and then purified so it suits cosmetic use. Its main makeup is a mix of hydrocarbons, which is why it is grouped with other petroleum-derived waxes.

Formulators use ozokerite to add firmness. It raises the melting point of a formula, so sticks keep their shape in warm rooms and glide on smoothly. In creams, it adds body and a more solid feel. On the skin, it feels smooth and slightly waxy rather than sticky, and it forms a light film that helps reduce water loss.

Good for

Stick and balm formulas, and people who like a firm, long-wearing texture in eyeliner or lip products.

Frequently asked questions

Is ozokerite the same as beeswax?

No. Beeswax comes from honeybees, while ozokerite is a mineral wax from earth deposits. Both firm up sticks and creams, but they have different makeup and feel, so formulators choose one or the other for different results.

Is ozokerite safe to use on sensitive skin?

Ozokerite is widely used in cosmetics and is generally well tolerated. As with any ingredient, a small patch test is a sensible step if your skin reacts easily. If you prefer to avoid petroleum-derived ingredients, check labels for mineral oil and petrolatum too.