Candelilla wax is derived from the leaves of the small Candelilla shrub, native to northern Mexico and the southwestern US. The wax is obtained by boiling the leaves and stems with diluted sulphuric acid and skimming from the surface for further processing. Its melting point is 67-79 degrees Celsius. It is mostly used mixed with other waxes to harden them without raising their melting point. It is used in the cosmetic industry as a component of lip balms and lipsticks, but one of its major uses is as a binder for chewing gum. Candelilla wax can be used as a substitute for carnauba wax and beeswax. It is also used for making varnish.