What Are Candles Made Of

Candles have illuminated our homes and ceremonies for over two millennia, evolving from simple animal fat torches to the diverse array of products we enjoy today. Understanding what candles are made of not only helps us make better purchasing decisions but also connects us to their rich history and cultural significance. This article explores the various materials used in candle making throughout history and in modern production.

The Historical Evolution of Candle Materials

Candles have been a source of light, heat, and timekeeping for thousands of years. The materials used to create them have evolved significantly over time, reflecting technological advancements and resource availability.

Ancient Candle Materials

The earliest candles weren’t wax-based at all. Ancient civilizations used various natural fats and oils to create rudimentary light sources:

• Animal tallow (rendered fat from cattle or sheep)
• Fish oil
• Whale blubber
• Olive oil (in oil lamps rather than solid candles)

These early candles often produced smoke, unpleasant odors, and inconsistent burning. Despite these drawbacks, they remained essential tools for illumination until better alternatives were developed.

Primary Materials in Modern Candles

Today’s candles utilize a variety of waxes and additives to create products with specific qualities like scent throw, burn time, and appearance.

Paraffin Wax

Paraffin wax remains the most common material in commercial candle production. It’s a petroleum by-product created during the oil refining process. Paraffin became popular in the 19th century and offers several advantages:

• Inexpensive to produce
• Holds color and scent well
• Creates a consistent burn
• Can be formulated for different melting points

However, as a petroleum derivative, paraffin has faced increasing scrutiny from environmentally-conscious consumers. Some studies suggest paraffin candles may release trace amounts of chemicals when burned, though industry associations maintain they’re safe for normal use.

Beeswax

Beeswax is one of the oldest natural waxes used in candle making. Produced by honeybees, this material offers unique benefits:

• Burns longer than many other waxes
• Produces a natural honey scent
• Emits negative ions that may help purify air
• Renewable and biodegradable

Beeswax candles typically have a distinctive golden color and are prized for their clean, bright flame. They tend to be more expensive than paraffin alternatives due to limited supply and labor-intensive production.

Soy Wax

Developed in the 1990s, soy wax has become increasingly popular as a natural alternative to paraffin. Made from hydrogenated soybean oil, it offers several advantages:

• Plant-based and renewable
• Biodegradable
• Typically burns cleaner than paraffin
• Often supports American farmers

Soy candles generally burn longer and cooler than paraffin, though they may not hold as much fragrance or color. Many manufacturers use soy blends that incorporate other waxes to improve performance.

Palm Wax

Derived from palm oil, this natural wax creates distinctive crystalline patterns when cooled. Palm wax candles offer:

• Unique appearance with natural feathering
• Good scent throw
• Clean burning properties

However, palm oil production has been linked to deforestation concerns, leading many manufacturers to seek sustainably sourced options.

Additional Candle Components

While wax forms the bulk of a candle, several other materials contribute to its function and appeal.

Wicks

Wicks are central to a candle’s function, drawing melted wax upward to fuel the flame. Modern wicks are typically made from:

• Braided cotton (most common)
• Paper core wicks
• Wooden wicks (creating a crackling sound)
• Hemp or other natural fibers

Quality wicks are designed to curl slightly as they burn, which helps them self-trim and maintain proper combustion.

Fragrances

Scented candles incorporate fragrance oils specially formulated to be released when heated. These may be:

• Synthetic fragrance oils
• Essential oils derived from plants
• Blends of natural and synthetic components

The fragrance load (amount of scent added) typically ranges from 5-10% of the candle’s weight.

Dyes and Colorants

Candles can be colored using various dyes specifically designed for wax. These include:

• Liquid dyes
• Color blocks
• Dye chips
• Powder pigments

Natural candles may use plant-based colorants or remain undyed to maintain their pure composition.

Specialty and Alternative Candle Materials

Gel Wax

Not technically a wax, gel candles are made from mineral oil and polymer resin. They offer:

• Transparent appearance
• Ability to suspend decorative elements
• Longer burn times than traditional waxes

Coconut Wax

A newer addition to the candle market, coconut wax is derived from coconut meat and offers excellent scent throw and clean burning properties. It’s often blended with soy or other waxes to improve performance.

Making Informed Choices About Candle Materials

When selecting candles, consider these factors related to their composition:

Conclusion

Candles have evolved from simple animal fat light sources to sophisticated products made from a variety of waxes, each with unique properties and benefits. Whether you prefer the traditional performance of paraffin, the natural qualities of beeswax, or the renewable aspects of plant-based waxes, understanding what candles are made of helps you select products that align with your preferences and values.

As candle technology continues to advance, we can expect even more innovations in materials and production methods, further expanding the options available to consumers while potentially reducing environmental impact.