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Where Does Candle Wax Come From?
What is Candle Wax Made of?
Candles have illuminated our lives for centuries, their history tracing back to ancient China around 200 BC when they were crafted from whale fat. However, the composition of candle wax has evolved significantly over time, giving rise to a diverse array of shapes, sizes, and ingredients. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the fascinating world of candle wax, exploring its composition, origins, and the various types available today and answering those all important questions, where does candle wax come from? and how is candle wax made? Whether you're a candle enthusiast or simply curious about this timeless source of light and ambience, this article will shed light on the ingredients that make up the heart of every candle. For a deeper dive into the rich history of candle-making, be sure to check out our blog, "When Were Candles First Made? A History of Candle Making" where you can explore the intriguing evolution of this age-old tradition.
Soy Wax
Soy wax is a vegetable wax derived from the oil of soybeans and is primarily used in candles.
In order to produce soy wax, harvested soybeans are:
Cleaned
Cracked
De-hulled and
Rolled into flakes
After it has been turned into flakes, the oil is extracted using solvents or mechanical pressing and is hydrogenated. During the hydrogenation process, fatty acids in the oil become saturated, which alters the melting point of the oil and makes it solid at room temperature.
Soy wax has so many benefits! Soy is preferred by many wax melt and candle makers because on average, soy candles burn for upto to 50% longer than paraffin candles and melts giving you and your customers more for their money. Soy wax is also preferred because it is an excellent fragrance carrier that does not require chemical amplifiers or additives. The result is a well-balanced true to scent wax melt.
We stock a selection of Soy Waxes online here.
Paraffin Wax
Paraffin waxes are petroleum based and are created using crude oil (also known as fossil fuel) which is extracted from the earth. On a molecular level, crude oil is a mixture of hydrocarbons that were created from the decomposition of plants and animals that lived under water many years ago. Once extracted, Paraffin wax is separated from the oil through crystallisation.
Paraffin wax tends to be easier to use and provides a better scent throw than vegetable waxes.
We stock a selection of Paraffin Waxes online here.
Beeswax
Beeswax is a natural wax produced by honey bees. The wax is formed into scales by eight wax-producing glands in the abdominal segments of worker bees, which discard it in or at the hive. The hive workers collect and use it to form cells for honey storage and larval and pupal protection within the beehive. Beeswax is a natural, renewable resource from an industry that helps the environment.
Beeswax candles do not require chemical processing. Beeswax is one of the densest waxes and has a high melting point. This means that beeswax doesn’t need any hardeners, additives, or chemical treatments to make a quality product.
Similar to soy wax, it also burns cleaner in comparison to paraffin. Beeswax also has a different composition depending on the flowers the bees have pollinated. This means every candle will burn differently and will have quirks and imperfections!
We stock a selection of Beeswaxes online here.
ParaSoy
The best of both worlds. Made from a blend of both paraffin and soy wax combines the marketing and clean-burning benefits of natural vegetable wax, with the stability and scent of mineral wax. Our Parasoy Professional Waxes are fully finished, which means that there is no need to add any other ingredients or additives. The perfect choice for making candles and wax melts!
Our Parasoy Professional Waxes come in slab form, making this wax easy to store, cut, measure and melt and is a natural light cream colour! Our Parasoy Professional Waxes also boasts a whole host of benefits which include; minimal frosting, less cure time, shorter cooling down period and vibrant colours when used with dyes!
If you’re working with our Parasoy Wax we recommend heating your wax to around 80°c, allowing your Parasoy Wax to cool before adding your fragrance! We then recommend that you pour your Parasoy Wax at around 75°c into a pre-warmed candle glass or mould.
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