Dewaxing

An extraction process that typically uses a closed-loop system to remove waxes and fatty lipids from a cannabis concentrate. This removes plant lipids, which are considered undesirable and will negatively impact the flavor and aesthetics of a concentrate. Dewaxing is similar to winterization, which also separates undesirable fats and waxes from concentrates. 

“Dewaxing is crucial to getting a great, pure concentrate.”

What is dewaxing?

Dewaxing is an extraction process that removes waxes and lipids from a cannabis concentrate. These lipids, including plant lipids, are removed because they will negatively impact the flavor and look of a concentrate. Dewaxing is similar to winterization in that both processes use cold temperatures to remove waxes and fats.

Dewaxing often uses a closed-loop system, although not necessarily. It is ideal to dewax in a closed environment as humidity and other factors can impact the extract. Butane is frequently used in dewaxing as it is common and easy to use. 

Dewaxing usually preserves flavors and terpenes better than winterization, although it often results in smaller yields.