Which ingredient acts as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics?

The chosen ingredient, carnauba wax, serves as both an emollient and a thickening agent in cosmetics. Emollients are substances that help to soften and smooth the skin, creating a protective barrier that enhances moisture retention. Carnauba wax, derived from the leaves of the Brazilian carnauba palm, is prized for its ability to provide a smooth texture and help in maintaining the skin's hydration levels.

As a thickening agent, carnauba wax contributes to the stability and consistency of cosmetic formulations, offering a desirable viscosity without compromising the product’s feel or performance. This is particularly important in products like creams, lotions, or lipsticks, where the right thickness enhances application while also ensuring that the product holds together effectively.

Other ingredients mentioned may serve different purposes, such as fillers or texturizers, but they do not encompass the dual role of emolliency and thickening as effectively as carnauba wax does. Thus, its unique properties make it a critical component in the formulation of many cosmetic products, further justifying its selection for this question.