Beeswax is useful and beneficial in several types of cosmetics. When beeswax is combined with a mineral oil or olive oil and made into a paste or salve, the resulting mixture is soothing and protective to the skin. It provides a soft, flexible coating that resists water but which can be removed with soap. When beeswax became scarce during World War II, lanolin (from wool) and paraffin were developed for cosmetics and because they are cheaper today, beeswax has been replaced in many commercial cosmetic preparations. Neither are as stable or beneficial for the skin.