Moustache wax

Gentleman with a waxed moustache ca. 1910 wearing a Homburg hat and pince nez

Moustache wax is a stiff pomade applied to a moustache as a grooming aid to hold the hairs in place, especially at the extremities. It can also have restorative properties, which become more important as the hair length increases. The wax is commonly scented and sometimes pigmented.

A simple recipe for homemade moustache wax comprises equal quantities of beeswax and petroleum jelly, combined in a double boiler and allowed to cool before use.^[1] More sophisticated recipes may include gum arabic and a soap, scent and colouring may also be added if desired.^[2] The key to a good moustache wax is being firm yet yielding, stiff yet malleable with staying power.^[1]

Common ingredients

• Beeswax
• Coconut oil or shea nut butter (or any saturated vegetable oil, solid at room temperature, and not prone to rancidity)
• Petroleum jelly (Vaseline)
• Gum arabic or pine resin
• Scented oils
• Tallow

References

1. ^ ^{a b} Foad, Patt. "Foad Wax". Make Up Artist. Foad Wax. http://foadwax.com. Retrieved 10 April 2011. 
2. ^ "D.I.Y. Moustache Wax". The Handlebar Club. http://www.handlebarclub.co.uk/wax/diy.shtm. Retrieved 2011-05-02.