Mustela cera, the mink wax, is a substance extracted from the fatty tissue of mink carcasses. The mink wax is used in cosmetic formulations. Mustela cera acts as an emollient (makes the skin supple and smooth), film former (forms a film on the skin, hair or nails when applied), skin care and hair conditioning agent (nourishes the skin; makes the hair easy to comb, smooth, soft and shiny and gives it volume).