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Characteristics of different waxes 1

Wax is the most important raw material for making scented candles and can be divided into natural wax and artificial wax. Natural waxes include soy wax, beeswax, coconut wax and ice flower wax. Artificial wax is made from paraffin, minerals and polymers extracted from petroleum, and jelly wax also falls into this category. There is a small misunderstanding here. Many friends mistakenly believe that artificial wax is harmful. In fact, this is not the case. Well-refined artificial wax is safe and non-toxic.

Wax is a complex mixture of organic compounds. Different waxes have different chemical compositions and physical properties. When choosing a certain wax or several waxes as the wax material for scented candles, you must understand the differences in properties between them and complement each other. At the same time, the three indicators of appropriate melting point range, oxygen content and aroma diffusion effect are controlled.

1. Paraffin

Paraffin wax is a type of mineral wax and a type of petroleum wax; it is a flake or needle-shaped crystal refined from crude oil, and its main component is linear alkanes (about 80% to 95%). According to the different degrees of processing and refining, it can be divided into three types: fully refined paraffin, semi-refined paraffin and crude paraffin. The former two are widely used, mainly used for food and other commodities, such as fruit preservation, wax paper, and crayons. Due to its high oil content, crude paraffin wax is mainly used to make fiberboard, canvas, etc.

Paraffin wax has a high melting point and is relatively hard. It is generally suitable for use as release wax, such as various shapes of fruits and columnar wax. Refined paraffin is food grade and is very safe to burn. The remaining unrefined paraffin wax is only suitable for ornamental scented candles and is not suitable for burning as scented candles.

2. Soy wax

Soy wax refers to wax produced from hydrogenated soybean oil. It is the main raw material for making craft candles, essential oils and aromatherapy candles. The advantages of soy wax are low price, the cup wax produced does not fall off the cup, does not crack, the pigment is evenly dispersed, and does not bloom. Burns 30-50% longer than paraffin wax. Non-toxic and environmentally friendly. It does not produce carcinogens when burned, and the waste is biodegradable.

Soft soy wax is the most commonly used wax material for handmade scented candles, but when purchasing, be sure to ask whether it is soft container wax or hard soy wax. When making aromatherapy, soft soy wax is generally used. It has a soft texture and is more suitable for cup wax. It is environmentally friendly and natural, and burns without black smoke. It is a very good practical wax. It is the most cost-effective on the current market and is also the first choice for many scented candle instructors to make candles.

2024-01-10

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Do you know the development of scented candle industry?

Here is a brief overview of the development of the scented candle industry:

- Scented candles have been around for centuries, used initially for religious and ceremonial purposes. Some of the earliest forms of scented candles were made from beeswax and plant oils.

- In the 1800s, advances in chemistry allowed synthetic fragrances to be created and used in candles. Paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum refining, also became a popular candle wax during this time as it was inexpensive and burned cleanly. 

- In the 1900s, large manufacturers like Candle-Lite and Colonial Candle Company began mass producing scented candles using paraffin wax and synthetic fragrances. Candles shifted from being primarily functional to being viewed as decorative.

 

- In the 1960s and 1970s, there was increased interest in natural and aromatic candle-making. Small candle businesses, hobbyists, and craftspeople started experimenting with materials like soy, palm, and beeswax combined with essential oils. 

- The 1990s saw a surge of interest in aromatherapy, which helped drive demand for scented candles. Retailers like Bath & Body Works capitalized on this trend and popularized home fragrance. Custom candle blends and vessel designs also became popular.

- Today, the scented candle industry is estimated to be worth billions globally. There are large manufacturers, small artisanal producers, and many mid-sized companies. Consumers can find candles in a huge range of styles, scents, and prices. The growth of e-commerce has also made candles more accessible.


2023-12-19

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