Why Does Wax and Oil “Bloom” on Lipsticks? Everything You Need to Know

By Caitlin Grey
If you’ve ever opened your favorite lipstick to find a white, powdery film on the surface, don’t panic—it’s not ruined! What you’re seeing is called “bloom”, and it’s a surprisingly common phenomenon in lipsticks. Let’s break it down.


What Is Bloom?

In lipstick formulation, bloom refers to the migration and crystallization of waxes and oils to the surface. It can appear as:

  • A white or grayish film

  • A frosty or slightly powdery texture

  • Sometimes, a slightly harder or grainy surface

Bloom is purely visual—your lipstick is still safe to use. But for those of us who love a flawless finish, it’s good to understand why it happens.



Why Does Bloom Happen?

Lipsticks are typically a blend of:

  • Waxes (beeswax, carnauba, candelilla)
  • Oils and butters (castor oil, jojoba, shea butter)
  • Pigments and sometimes emulsifiers
Over time, waxes can crystallize and oils can migrate to the surface. This is influenced by:

Temperature fluctuations – hot-cold cycles encourage migration.

  1. Temperature fluctuations – hot-cold cycles encourage migration.
  2. High wax or pigment content – rich formulations are more prone.
  3. Polymorphism of waxes – some waxes naturally reorganize into more stable crystals.
  4. Ingredient compatibility – oils and waxes that aren’t balanced can separate.

Which Lipsticks Are Most Prone to Bloom?

Bloom is more common in:

  • Natural and organic brands: RMS Beauty, Ilia, Kosas, Kjaer Weis, 100% Pure.
  • Luxury/high-pigment brands: Charlotte Tilbury, Pat McGrath, Tom Ford.
  • Drugstore natural lines: Burt’s Bees, Revlon natural collections, Maybelline natural lines.

The common thread? High wax content, natural oils, and minimal synthetic stabilizers.



How to Prevent Bloom

If you’re formulating lipsticks or just want yours to last looking perfect:

  • Store in a stable environment – avoid heat and cold swings.

  • Control cooling during production – gradual cooling prevents large crystal formation.

  • Balance wax-to-oil ratios – proper proportion reduces migration.

  • Use stabilizers carefully – hydrogenated oils or microcrystalline waxes can help maintain a smooth surface.


Wax and oil bloom is a natural, common occurrence—especially in lipsticks that focus on clean, natural ingredients. While it may affect aesthetics, it doesn’t compromise the product’s quality or performance.

For formulators, understanding bloom helps create more stable lipsticks without sacrificing the luxurious texture and finish that makeup lovers adore.

Next time you see a frosty lipstick, remember: it’s just the product showing off its natural beauty!

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